Moving from Utah to California?

6 Best UT to CA Movers and Your Ultimate Moving Guide

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UT to CA Moving Specialists

Moving from the Beehive State to the Golden State is not just a change of scenery; it's an exhilarating leap into a new chapter of life. Imagine trading Utah's majestic mountains and serene deserts for California's sunny beaches and bustling cities. For such a significant transition, it's crucial to choose trusted and reliable professional movers. We at Great Guys Moving have meticulously ranked the best, ensuring your journey is smooth and worry-free.

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

6 Best Utah 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

Location DotEl Sobrante, CA
GearLocal Moving, Long Distance Moving, Commercial Moving See More
Circle CheckAuthorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/10/2024)

Circle DotUSDOT: 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

Location DotSanta Monica, CA
GearResidential moving, Commercial moving, Long-distance moving See More
Circle CheckAuthorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/11/2024)

Circle DotUSDOT: 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
801 Moving Company Logo
Exceptional

based on 412+ data points

Location DotMillcreek, UT
GearPacking services, Long-distance moves, Local moving See More
Circle CheckAuthorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/11/2024)

Circle DotUSDOT: 4140953 Verify

About 801 Moving Company

801 Moving Company has been serving the Salt Lake City Metro, UT area since 2008. Based in Salt Lake City, this moving company offers a rang...Read More >>

top 3 salt lake city 2024 801 moving company image
#4
Best of Utah Moving Company Logo
Exceptional

based on 1,595+ data points

Location DotSandy, UT
GearLocal moving, Long-distance moving, Office moving See More
Circle CheckAuthorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/11/2024)

Circle DotUSDOT: 2920944 Verify

About Best of Utah Moving Company

Best of Utah Moving Company is one of the top-rated local moving companies in Utah. It is fully licensed and insured and has been operating ...Read More >>

top 10 salt lake city 2024 best of utah moving company image
top 3 ranked movers in salt lake city 2023 best of utah moving company image
top 10 ranked movers in salt lake city 2022 best of utah moving company image
#5
Just in Time Moving Logo
Exceptional

based on 843+ data points

Location DotSt. George, UT
GearLocal & Cross Country Relocation Company, Residential Moving, Commercial Moving See More
Circle CheckAuthorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/5/2023)

Circle DotUSDOT: 2980986 Verify

About Just in Time Moving

Just in Time Moving is a full-service moving company with over eleven years of experience, based in St. George, Utah. Owned by Justin and Mi...Read More >>

top 3 st george 2024 just in time moving image
top 10 ranked movers in washington 2023 just in time moving image
top 10 ranked movers in washington 2022 just in time moving image
#6
You Move Me Salt Lake City Logo
Exceptional

based on 2,566+ data points

Location DotWoods Cross, UT
GearLocal Moving Services, Long-Distance Moving Services, Packing Services See More
Circle CheckAuthorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 1/25/2024)

Circle DotUSDOT: 3820939 Verify

About You Move Me Salt Lake City

You Move Me Salt Lake City is a top-rated local moving company offering a wide range of services such as packing, moving, and providing movi...Read More >>

top 10 salt lake city 2024 you move me salt lake city image
top 10 ranked movers in riverdale 2023 you move me salt lake city image

Pros and Cons of Moving from Utah to California

Moving from Utah to California involves considering a variety of factors. This guide aims to provide an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of this relocation. The comparison charts below will help you weigh the cons of Utah against the pros of California and vice versa, facilitating a well-informed decision.

CONs
PROs
Utah iconUtah
  • Harsher winters
  • Less diverse landscapes
  • Fewer major cities
  • More conservative
  • Lower average salaries
California iconCalifornia
  • Milder winters
  • Varied landscapes
  • More major cities
  • More liberal
  • Higher average salaries
California iconCalifornia
  • Higher cost of living
  • More traffic congestion
  • Larger population density
  • More crowded outdoor spaces
  • Higher housing prices
Utah iconUtah
  • Lower cost of living
  • Less traffic congestion
  • Smaller population density
  • Rich outdoor activities
  • Lower housing prices

California offers diverse natural landscapes, from the serene beaches of Malibu to the captivating forests of Yosemite National Park, suitable for those seeking beauty and adventure. The state's vibrant cities, like San Francisco and Los Angeles, are renowned for their rich cultural diversity, bustling restaurant scenes, and broad employment opportunities, especially in tech and entertainment sectors. However, this comes with a higher cost of living and housing prices, representing a significant shift from Utah's more affordable and quieter lifestyle. Outdoor enthusiasts might find Utah's expansive, less crowded natural parks and lower living costs appealing, but California's dynamic atmosphere and mild winters are attractive for those seeking enhanced cultural experiences and economic opportunities.

Food Scene Guide When Moving from Utah to California

When planning a move, it’s crucial to consider not just the scenery or job opportunities but also the local flavor. Food is an integral part of local culture and everyday life. To help you transition smoothly, we have prepared a comparison of the local cuisine between Utah & California, offering insights into what your new home might taste like.

UtahCalifornia

Most iconic local food item

Jell-O
Avocado toast

Most popular meat dish

Fry sauce with everything
Tri-tip barbecue

Most popular street food item

Navajo taco
Fish tacos

Most popular vegan food

Vegetarian Mormon funeral potatoes
Impossible burger

Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the state

  • Chez Panisse
  • In-N-Out Burger
  • La Farine

Fitness/Health Conscientiousness

7
9

Abundance of Food Trucks

6
10

Foodie Scene

7
10

Vegan Friendly

6
10

Moving from Utah to California, you’ll transition from a cuisine that includes comfort foods like Jell-O and Navajo tacos to a state famous for its health-conscious offerings such as avocado toast and Impossible burgers. In California, especially in cities like San Francisco and Los Angeles, you’ll find a vibrant foodie scene celebrated for its innovation and a diverse range of worldwide cuisines. Neighborhoods like the Mission District in San Francisco or Silver Lake in Los Angeles are particularly renowned for their street food, offering everything from gourmet food trucks to high-end vegan experiences. This shift not only reflects the diverse cultures present in California but also the state's commitment to sustainability and health consciousness. Whether you're craving a classic In-N-Out burger or a meal at Chez Panisse, a pioneer in the farm-to-table movement, California’s culinary scene has something to tantalize everyone’s taste buds.

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Real Estate Facts to Know Before Moving from Utah to California

When considering a move, understanding the real estate landscape is crucial. This comparison aims to highlight how housing aspects in Utah and California align, offering a comprehensive view of what to expect in each state.

When diving deeper into the housing comparison between Utah and California, several nuanced differences emerge. Utah’s real estate market is recognized for its affordability and homes that embrace Craftsman and Ranch styles, often highlighting the state's majestic mountain views and accessibility to outdoors and parks. Conversely, California, with its higher cost of living, showcases a preference for Modern and Spanish architectural styles alongside eco-friendly features, capitalizing on its coastal advantages and urban lifestyle. Walkability and bikeability scores are generally higher in California, reflecting its dense urban centers like San Francisco and Los Angeles, as opposed to Utah's more sprawling and car-dependent cities. These distinctions paint a vivid picture of what one might prioritize when choosing between the scenic mountains of Utah or the vibrant cities of California.

Weather Considerations for Moving from Utah to California

Moving from one location to another requires an understanding of how the weather will impact your daily life and activities. This comparison aims to highlight the weather differences between Utah and California, providing you with essential information to prepare for the change.

Summer icon
85°/60°

Utah

75°/58°

California

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
37°/20°

Utah

68°/48°

California

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
20

Utah

22

California

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
56

Utah

Varies greatly by region

California

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

When considering weather differences between Utah and California, you'll find a significant contrast in seasonal temperatures and natural disaster risks. Utah experiences more defined seasons with colder winters and moderate summers, while California often enjoys milder winters and cooler summers, especially along the coast. California's higher annual sunshine days contribute to its reputation for good weather, but this comes with the risk of wildfires which can affect air quality and high UV index levels. Additionally, while Utah sees significant annual snowfall, making it a haven for winter sports enthusiasts, California's snowfall is largely dependent on the region, with mountain areas receiving snow and coastal and southern areas experiencing very mild winters.

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

When considering a move from one state to another, it's crucial to compare financial factors to understand how your expenses might change. This comparison will highlight why understanding the cost of living, tax differences, and economic conditions between Utah and California is essential for your financial planning.

Moving from Utah to California, you'll find yourself in a state with a significantly higher cost of living, particularly in housing and everyday expenses. While the average household income is marginally higher in California, the state's higher income and sales tax rates can consume a greater portion of your earnings. Additionally, California's diverse economy offers opportunities in technology and entertainment sectors that may not be as prevalent in Utah. It's also important to consider social factors such as homelessness, which is more pronounced in California, affecting both community dynamics and public policy.

Political & Religious Comparison between Utah and California

Moving from Utah to California involves more than a change of scenery—it's a transition into a different political and cultural landscape. In this guide, we offer a quick glimpse into the comparison of the politics between Utah & California , along with insights into the religious make-up of these states. Understanding these aspects can help you better integrate into your new community.

UtahCalifornia

Political Make-up

Lean ConservativeLean Liberal

Local Politics

Republican-dominated State LegislatureDemocrat-dominated State Legislature

Religion

Majority LDS (Mormon)Religiously Diverse

Utah and California represent contrasting environments in terms of political orientation and religious composition. Utah is predominantly conservative, with a significant majority of its population identifying with the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints LDS Church, influencing both its culture and politics. On the other hand, California is known for its liberal leanings and diverse population, including a wide array of religious beliefs and practices. This diversity extends to the political scene as well, with the state often being forefront in progressive legislation. Understanding these differences is crucial as you adapt to your new surroundings, helping you to connect with your community on a deeper level.

Education Guide When Moving from Utah to California

Moving across state lines brings about numerous challenges and decisions, especially when it comes to education. To aid in this transition, understanding the differences in educational opportunities between Utah and California is crucial. This comparison will help you better grasp what each state offers, helping you make informed decisions for your family's education needs.

UtahCalifornia

Where most Seniors go to college (top 3)

University of Utah
Brigham Young University
Utah State University
University of California
Los Angeles
University of Southern California
Stanford University

Top 3 Elementary Schools

A.E. Wright Elementary (Salt Lake City)
Hawthorne Elementary (Salt Lake City)
Beacon Heights Elementary (Salt Lake City)
Point Vicente Elementary (Rancho Palos Verdes)
Ocean Air Elementary (San Diego)
Westwood Charter Elementary (Los Angeles)

Top 3 Middle Schools

Wasatch Junior High (Salt Lake City)
Albion Middle (Sandy)
Indian Hills Middle (Sandy)
Miller Middle (San Jose)
Pacific Collegiate School (Santa Cruz)
Joaquin Miller Middle (San Jose)

Top 3 High Schools

Skyline High (Salt Lake City)
Timpview High (Provo)
Lone Peak High (Highland)
Henry M. Gunn High (Palo Alto)
Torrey Pines High (San Diego)
Lynbrook High (San Jose)

Top 3 private high schools

Rowland Hall (Salt Lake City)
Waterford School (Sandy)
Juan Diego Catholic High School (Draper)
Harvard-Westlake School (Los Angeles)
Polytechnic School (Pasadena)
The Harker School (San Jose)

Top 3 private K-12 schools

Rowland Hall (Salt Lake City)
Waterford School (Sandy)
Madeleine Choir School (Salt Lake City)
The Harker School (San Jose)
Harvard-Westlake School (Los Angeles)
Crossroads School (Santa Monica)

Top 3 School Districts

Park City School District
Davis School District
Canyons School District
Palo Alto Unified School District
San Marino Unified School District
Arcadia Unified School District

The comparison between Utah and California's educational opportunities reveals distinct paths for students in both states. Utah showcases strong public and private institutions with a focus on local communities and a blend of academic and extracurricular programs. For example, Rowland Hall in Salt Lake City offers an exceptional education from K-12, reflecting Utah's commitment to excellence in education within a vibrant community setting. On the other hand, California's educational landscape is notable for its prestigious universities and highly ranked public and private schools like Harvard-Westlake School and Palo Alto Unified School District, highlighting the state's focus on innovative educational practices and diverse opportunities. Both states offer unique advantages, whether you're looking for a close-knit community school in Utah or a groundbreaking educational program in California.

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