Moving from Connecticut to Los Angeles — Costs & Top Local Movers
If you're moving from Connecticut to Los Angeles, you already know this isn't a quick trip across state lines. At 2,865 miles, you're looking at a serious relocation — which means finding movers who actually know what they're doing matters.
I've reviewed dozens of Connecticut movers that handle cross-country moves, and pulled together the top five for your route to LA. Below you'll find their ratings, what customers actually say about them, pricing breakdowns, and everything else you need to know before you pack a box.
Top 5 Connecticut Movers to Los Angeles
- RT Relocation — 4.66 / 5 (94% positive reviews)
- JB Moving Services Inc. — 4.66 / 5 (85% positive reviews)
- Hands On Moving — 4.66 / 5 (83% positive reviews)
- Collegian Movers — 4.56 / 5 (88% positive reviews)
- Zip to Zip Moving Inc — 4.56 / 5 (85% positive reviews)
RT Relocation
10 Diana Court, Cheshire, CT 06410
License #: 1802 | Years in business: 13 | DOT #: 3285714
Rating: 4.66 / 5
Reviews: 282 total | Yelp | Google | BBB (A+)
Phone: (833) 668-3978
RT Relocation consistently earns the highest marks on this list. Out of 282 reviews, 94% are positive — the strongest ratio of the five.
Customers praise their speed, professionalism, and respect for belongings. Most reviewers describe smooth, efficient moves with crews who show up on time and handle items with genuine care. They're known for courteous staff and straightforward service.
The downsides are minor but real: a small percentage of customers report damage, unexpected charges, or slow responses to insurance claims. A few mention items missing from storage or disputes over final costs.
Services: Local moves, interstate moves, international moves, packing, unpacking, offices, art, antiques, crating, full-valuation coverage, storage, safes, pay by money order or credit card.
JB Moving Services Inc.
222A Selleck St, Stamford, CT 06902
License #: 1740 | Years in business: 38 | DOT #: 196878
Rating: 4.66 / 5
Reviews: 103 total | Yelp | Google | BBB (A+)
Phone: (203) 602-7979
JB Moving delivers solid professionalism. With 38 years in business, they've refined their process. Customer feedback highlights efficient crews, careful packing, and attention to detail. Moves described as stress-free and handled with impressive precision are common across positive reviews.
The trade-off: about 16% of reviews mention damaged items, crew behavior issues, or costs that exceeded estimates. Some customers point to accuracy problems on larger or more complex moves.
Services: Local moves, interstate moves, international moves, packing, unpacking, offices, pianos, pool tables, art, antiques, grandfather clocks, crating, full-valuation coverage, storage, credit card payment.
Hands On Moving
157 Church Street, New Haven, CT 6510
License #: 1785 | Years in business: 10 | DOT #: 76628
Rating: 4.66 / 5
Reviews: 288 total | Yelp | Google | BBB (A)
Phone: (203) 937-2156
Hands On Moving earns consistent praise for friendly, professional service. They stand out among local movers for reliability and efficiency. Customers repeatedly mention on-time arrival, careful item handling, and crews that work hard without cutting corners.
Drawbacks show up in about 17% of reviews: damage to items, missing belongings, or final charges above the quote. Some customers report slow follow-up on damage claims and inconsistent compensation.
Services: Local moves, interstate moves, packing, unpacking, offices, pianos, crating, storage, credit card payment.
Collegian Movers
482 Naugatuck Ave, Milford, CT 06460
License #: 589 | Years in business: 35 | DOT #: 482141
Rating: 4.56 / 5
Reviews: 236 total | Yelp | Google | BBB (A+)
Phone: (203) 283-5050
Collegian earned the highest positive-review percentage — 88% — from a solid review pool. They're known for efficient service, professional teams, and careful handling. Customers consistently report items arriving undamaged, fast work, and courteous crews.
Negative feedback (about 12%) centers on item damage, unexpectedly high final costs, or late arrivals. A few customers mention slow management responses to damage claims.
Services: Local moves, interstate moves, international moves, packing, unpacking, offices, pianos, hot tubs, art, antiques, grandfather clocks, crating, shipment tracking, full-valuation coverage, storage, fragile-only packing, safes, pay by money order or cash.
Zip to Zip Moving Inc
55 Post Road West, Suite 200, Westport, CT 06880
License #: 1820 | Years in business: 7 | DOT #: 2969363
Rating: 4.56 / 5
Reviews: 14 total | Yelp | Google | BBB (A-)
Phone: (203) 309-0607
Zip to Zip has fewer reviews on record (14), but 85% are positive. Customers highlight efficient service, professional staff, and careful handling. Many note friendly movers who work quickly and communicate clearly — plus easy booking.
The catch: a small number report unexpected charges, poor packing, or broken items. One customer mentioned unprofessional behavior and underestimated job size.
Services: Local moves, interstate moves, packing, unpacking, offices, pianos, hot tubs, pool tables, art, antiques, crating, full-valuation coverage, storage, safes, pay by money order, cash, or credit card, deposit required.
Cost to Move from Connecticut to Los Angeles
Here's what you can expect to pay based on home size and service type for this 2,865-mile move:
| Move Size | Full-Service Movers | Moving Containers | Rental Truck |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1 bedroom | $1,232 – $5,347 | $1,380 – $3,475 | $1,533 – $2,945 |
| 2–3 bedrooms | $3,712 – $7,237 | $2,398 – $5,068 | $1,645 – $3,298 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $7,121 – $11,325 | $3,311 – $6,779 | $2,058 – $4,219 |
Note: These are estimates based on current market data. Final costs shift with move size, add-ons, parking constraints, fuel rates, and timing. Use our calculator to get precise quotes for your situation.
Hiring Professional Movers
For a studio or one-bedroom home, expect $1,232 to $5,347. A two- to three-bedroom move runs $3,712 to $7,237, and larger homes cost $7,121 to $11,325. Your actual quote depends on packing services, inventory weight, and seasonal demand.
Moving Containers
If you're using moving containers from Connecticut to Los Angeles, budget $1,380 to $3,475 for a small load. Two to three bedrooms typically cost $2,398 to $5,068, and larger moves run $3,311 to $6,779.
Rental Trucks
Renting a truck is usually the cheapest upfront option — but you're doing all the work yourself. Expect $1,533 to $2,945 for a studio, $1,645 to $3,298 for two to three bedrooms, and $2,058 to $4,219 for four+ bedrooms. These estimates include fuel.
Service Comparison: Top 5 Movers
| Company | Full Service | Antiques | Military Discount | Senior Discount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| RT Relocation | ✓ | ✓ | × | × |
| JB Moving Services | ✓ | ✓ | × | × |
| Hands On Moving | ✓ | × | × | × |
| Collegian Movers | ✓ | ✓ | × | × |
| Zip to Zip Moving | ✓ | ✓ | × | × |
How Connecticut movers compare nationwide:
- Full Service: 100% of these five vs. 96% nationwide
- Antiques: 62% vs. 46% nationwide
- Military Discount: 1% vs. 4% nationwide
- Senior Discount: 0% vs. 4% nationwide
What You Need to Know: Connecticut vs. Los Angeles
Cost of Living Comparison
| Factor | Connecticut | Los Angeles | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Avg. rent | $1,374/mo | $2,960/mo | +115% |
| Avg. home | $405,595 | $2,368,088 | +484% |
| Per capita income | $90,213 | $74,993 | −17% |
| Unemployment | 3.0% | 10.6% | +253% |
| State income tax | 3.0% | 13.3% | +343% |
Key takeaways:
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Housing is expensive. LA rents are more than double Connecticut's, and home prices jump by nearly 5x. Plan for higher monthly expenses and a substantial down payment.
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Salaries run lower. While Connecticut averages $90,213 per capita, LA is around $74,993. That 17% gap stings when combined with higher taxes and cost of living.
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Taxes are brutal. California's income tax at 13.3% versus Connecticut's 3.0% means you'll take home significantly less. Factor this into your long-term financial planning.
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Job market is tighter. LA's 10.6% unemployment (versus Connecticut's 3.0%) means more competition. Start your job search early and lean on networking.
Weather & Climate
| Los Angeles | Connecticut | |
|---|---|---|
| Summer high | 84°F | 83°F |
| Winter low | 46°F | 18°F |
| Annual rain | 16″ | 50″ |
| Annual snow | 0″ | 37″ |
| Crime index | 53.81 | 16.44 |
What to expect:
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Winters are mild. LA's 46°F lows versus Connecticut's 18°F mean you're trading cold, snow, and ice for gentle winters. No more shoveling or slippery roads — a real quality-of-life upgrade.
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Much less rain. LA gets 16 inches annually versus Connecticut's 50. Expect more sunny days, lower humidity, and less need for waterproof gear.
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No snow whatsoever. That 37 inches of Connecticut snow? Gone. LA doesn't see snow, which saves money on heating and equipment.
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Summer temps align. Both regions hit low-to-mid 80s, so you won't face a temperature shock.
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Crime is higher. LA's crime index (53.81) is more than triple Connecticut's (16.44). Research your specific neighborhood before committing.
Things to Do in Los Angeles
Museums & Culture:
- The Getty Center
- Griffith Observatory
- Petersen Automotive Museum
- Battleship USS Iowa Museum
- The Broad
Parks & Outdoors:
- Griffith Park
- Runyon Canyon Park
- Lake Hollywood Park
- Echo Park
- Venice Skatepark
Sports:
- LA Clippers, LA Lakers (NBA)
- LA Dodgers (MLB)
- LA FC (MLS)
- LA Kings (NHL)
Universities:
- UCLA
- California State University, Los Angeles
- California State University, Northridge
- American Film Institute Conservatory
- Alliant International University
Before You Move: Important Checklist
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HOA & community rules. Check your new neighborhood's rules on moving day before you book.
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Elevator reservation. Book your building's elevator early and confirm their moving window.
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Parking permits. Some LA cities require moving truck permits. Look up local rules now.
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California licensing. All movers in California must hold a "T Number" from the California Public Utilities Commission (CAPUC). This certifies insurance, safety, financial stability, and criminal clearance. Always verify before hiring.
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State regulator check. Confirm your mover's license on the CAPUC website.
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Moving permits. California doesn't require statewide moving permits, but check local parking restrictions for your specific city.
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USPS change of address. Submit your form at least one week before moving. Set your official move date so mail forwards correctly.
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Mover's insurance. Standard Released Value Protection is free but minimal — capped at 60 cents per pound per item. A 50-inch TV (25 lbs) totals only $15 in coverage. Ask your mover about full-value options or buy third-party insurance.
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Moving checklist. Stay organized and ensure nothing slips through the cracks.
How Long Does the Move Take?
Professional movers: Expect delivery in 3–14 days depending on the company's schedule and transit logistics. Ask for a timeline before booking.
Rental truck: Plan 1–2 days of driving time, depending on your route and how many breaks you take.
Overall: Packing and loading typically take one day or less, even DIY.
When Should You Book?
With a nearly 2,900-mile move, lock in your date as soon as your plans solidify. For best availability and rates, book 2–3 months in advance.
Cheapest Time to Move
LA's summers hit 84°F and winters drop to 46°F. Most people move in spring or fall for milder weather. But if you want to avoid crowds and potentially save money, consider summer or winter — just prepare for heat or occasional cold.
FAQ
How far in advance should I book?
Aim for 2–3 months. This is a long-distance move, and competitive pricing goes fast.
What if the reverse trip?
If you're heading the other direction, check out moving from Los Angeles to Connecticut for similar cost and timeline data.
Do I need special insurance?
Yes. Standard Released Value Protection is free but covers only 60 cents per pound. For full replacement cost, ask your mover about additional coverage or buy third-party insurance.
What about my car?
You can drive it yourself or ship it separately via auto transport. Shipping runs $1,500–$3,000+ for this distance.
Resources & Related Moves
Other Connecticut routes:
- Connecticut to California
- Connecticut to Florida
- Connecticut to Georgia
- Connecticut to Illinois
- Connecticut to Texas
Best movers by type:
Ready to Get Started?
Compare quotes from all five movers above, or use our calculator to estimate your exact move cost. The more information you provide (inventory, exact pickup/delivery addresses, desired moving date), the more accurate your quotes will be.
Good luck with your move to Los Angeles. It's a big change, but you've got solid movers and solid data to make it work.