ontario to co

---
title: "Moving from Ontario, CA to Colorado: Costs, Movers & What to Know"
description: "Real cost estimates, top mover picks, and a cost of living breakdown for moving from Ontario, CA to Colorado. Plan your 980-mile move right."
author: Sean Sullivan
keywords: ["moving from Ontario to Colorado", "Ontario CA movers", "Ontario to Colorado moving cost", "California to Colorado movers", "long-distance movers Ontario CA", "Ontario moving companies", "cost to move to Colorado"]
---

# Moving from Ontario, CA to Colorado

If you're moving from Ontario, CA to Colorado, you're looking at roughly 980 miles and a lifestyle shift that goes well beyond the distance. Lower taxes, cheaper rent, and a completely different relationship with winter are all waiting on the other end. Before any of that, you need to know what this move is going to cost you and who's actually qualified to handle it.

I went through the Ontario mover pool — 86 companies capable of handling state-to-state moves out of there — and pulled the five that hold up on this route. Below you'll find real cost ranges for full-service movers, containers, and truck rentals, plus the cost of living and lifestyle numbers so you know what you're walking into.

## Local moving companies in Ontario

Out of the Ontario movers capable of handling interstate moves, here are the top five for a move to Colorado:

1. VIP Transport, Inc. — 4.62 / 5
2. Golden Eagle Moving, LLC — 4.44 / 5
3. Meathead Movers — 4.72 / 5
4. Big Deahl's Movers — 4.42 / 5
5. Sterling Van Lines — 4.70 / 5

---

### VIP Transport, Inc.

**2703 Wardlow Rd, Corona, CA 92882**

- Overall score: 4.6 / 5
- [Yelp reviews](https://www.yelp.com/biz/vip-transport-mayflower-agent-corona) (95 reviews)
- [Google reviews](https://www.google.com/search?q=VIP+Transport,+Inc.+2703+Wardlow+Rd.%0D%0ACorona,+CA+92882&source=lmns&bih=929&biw=1920&rlz=1C1CHBF_enPH1019PH1019&hl=en&sa=X&ved=2ahUKEwjk8cvM2dX-AhWbI2IAHf2kCOUQ_AUoAHoECAEQAA#lrd=0x80dcc8dd1563c59d:0xffb1b1e779fd1900,1,,,,) (80 reviews)
- [BBB profile](https://www.bbb.org/us/ca/corona/profile/moving-and-storage-companies/vip-transport-inc-1066-13077955) — Grade A+
- **89% positive / 9% negative** (out of 244 reviews)

VIP Transport operates as an agent for both [Mayflower](/company/mayflower) and [United Van Lines](/company/united-van-lines), which gives you access to a significantly larger carrier network than most independents can offer. Across 244 reviews, the consistent themes are professional crews, reliable communication, and careful handling. Customers describe movers as efficient and easy to work with — both in the field and on the phone.

Where things occasionally break down: a minority of customers report damaged items or slow claims resolution. That's not unique to VIP, but it's worth asking upfront how they handle claims and what kind of timeline to expect. On balance, VIP Transport is a dependable pick for a long haul like Ontario to Colorado.

- **DOT #:** 125563 | **State license:** 0137029 | **In business:** 43 years
- **Services:** Local, interstate, and international moves; packing/unpacking; pianos, art, antiques, crating; storage; full-valuation coverage

**(951) 272-3700**

---

### Golden Eagle Moving, LLC

**1450 N Benson Ave Ste B, Upland, CA 91786**

- Overall score: 4.4 / 5
- [Yelp reviews](https://www.yelp.com/biz/golden-eagle-moving-united-van-lines-agent-upland-2) (67 reviews)
- [Google reviews](https://www.google.com/search?q=Golden+Eagle+Moving+upland+ca&source=lmns&bih=929&biw=1920&rlz=1C1CHBF_enPH1019PH1019&hl=en&sa=X&ved=2ahUKEwiF5PvCpZH9AhVVGVkFHazDDa0Q_AUoAHoECAEQAA#lrd=0x80c331053de33e13:0x1dadc9765e84efaf,1,,,,) (92 reviews)
- [BBB profile](https://www.bbb.org/us/ca/upland/profile/moving-and-storage-companies/golden-eagle-moving-llc-1066-459700) — Grade A+
- **81% positive / 18% negative** (out of 160 reviews)

Golden Eagle has been operating for 44 years and runs as a United Van Lines agent. Out of 160 reviews, 81% are positive — customers point to polite, professional crews and solid attention to detail. Communication and item handling come up often as genuine differentiators.

The negative feedback — around 18% — is worth taking seriously. There are enough reports of damaged or missing items and late deliveries to warrant specific questions before you book. Ask whether they use their own crews or third-party carriers on the Colorado leg, and nail down their claims process in writing. For most customers on this route, Golden Eagle delivers. Just go in informed.

- **DOT #:** 77949 | **State license:** 0191570 | **In business:** 44 years
- **Services:** Local, interstate, and international moves; packing/unpacking; pianos, art, antiques, crating, crane vans; storage; full-valuation coverage

**(909) 946-7655**

---

### Meathead Movers

**2430 South Grand Avenue, Santa Ana, CA 92705**

- Overall score: 4.7 / 5
- [Yelp reviews](https://www.yelp.com/biz/meathead-movers-santa-ana-3?osq=meathead+movers) (401 reviews)
- [Google reviews](https://www.google.com/search?q=anaheim+meathead+movers&oq=anaheim+meathead+movers&aqs=chrome..69i57j69i60.7321j0j4&sourceid=chrome&ie=UTF-8#lrd=0x80dcd94b1b448f3b:0x80800199e1901f0d,1,,,) (11 reviews)
- [BBB profile](https://www.bbb.org/us/ca/santa-ana/profile/moving-companies/meathead-movers-1126-1000068324) — Grade A+
- **77% positive / 20% negative** (out of 596 reviews)

Meathead Movers has a strong following for a reason. Nearly 77% positive across 596 reviews is a high bar when you're operating at that volume — and the recurring themes hold: professional crews, efficient work, careful handling, clear communication. The hustle is real, and most customers notice it.

The caveats: some customers report unexpected costs and occasional furniture damage. The 20% negative rate is a bit elevated, but with that many total reviews, the overall picture stays credible. If you have items you're particularly protective of, get the coverage conversation done before you sign the contract. Good choice for Ontario to Colorado, especially if speed is a priority.

- **DOT #:** 921143 | **State license:** 189849 | **In business:** 27 years
- **Services:** Local and interstate moves; packing/unpacking; offices; storage

**(949) 485-7883**

---

### Big Deahl's Movers

**10808 E Foothill Blvd Ste 160-467, Rancho Cucamonga, CA 91730**

- Overall score: 4.4 / 5
- [Yelp reviews](https://www.yelp.com/biz/big-deahls-movers-rancho-cucamonga-3) (122 reviews)
- [Google reviews](https://www.google.com/search?q=Big+Deahl%27s+Movers+rancho+cucamonga&rlz=1C1VDKB_enPH1029PH1029&oq=Big+Deahl%27s+Movers+rancho+cucamonga&aqs=chrome..69i57j69i60l2.10948j0j7&sourceid=chrome&ie=UTF-8#lrd=0x80c335e112ca86bb:0xc007405335a6d31d,1,,,) (142 reviews)
- [BBB profile](https://www.bbb.org/us/ca/rancho-cucamonga/profile/moving-companies/big-deahls-movers-1066-850048550) — Grade A+

Big Deahl's is a newer operation — 10 years in — but they carry a 4.4-star rating across a substantial review pool, which is harder to sustain than most people realize. What stands out here is the service list: pianos, hot tubs, pool tables, grandfather clocks, antiques, crating. If you've got specialty pieces that most carriers will quote at a premium or quietly decline, Big Deahl's is worth a call.

- **DOT #:** 3295324 | **State license:** 0191969 | **In business:** 10 years
- **Services:** Local, interstate, and international moves; packing/unpacking; pianos, hot tubs, pool tables, art, antiques, grandfather clocks, crating; storage; fragile-only packing; safes

**(909) 328-8894**

---

### Sterling Van Lines

**6850 Suva St, Bell Gardens, CA 90201**

- Overall score: 4.7 / 5
- [Yelp reviews](https://www.yelp.com/biz/sterling-van-lines-bell-gardens) (155 reviews)
- [Google reviews](https://www.google.com/search?q=Sterling+Van+Lines+%096850+Suva+St%09Bell+Gardens&rlz=1C1VDKB_enPH1029PH1029&ei=XFPXY6qIG7-pz7sPqpuC0AQ&ved=0ahUKEwiqpvXdxe78AhW_1HMBHaqNAEoQ4dUDCBA&uact=5&oq=Sterling+Van+Lines+%096850+Suva+St%09Bell+Gardens&gs_lcp=Cgxnd3Mtd2l6LXNlcnAQAzIFCAAQgAQ6CggAEEcQ1gQQsAM6BggAEBYQHjoFCAAQhgNKBAhBGABKBAhGGABQrgJYsNMBYMfaAWgBcAF4AIABVogBqgGSAQEymAEAoAEBoAECyAEHwAEB&sclient=gws-wiz-serp) (231 reviews)
- [BBB profile](https://www.bbb.org/us/ca/bell-gardens/profile/moving-and-storage-companies/sterling-van-lines-1216-13027301) — Grade A+
- **85% positive / 14% negative** (out of 362 reviews)

Sterling Van Lines has 33 years in the business and a reputation built largely around smaller loads at competitive prices. Out of 362 reviews, 84.5% are positive — customers highlight professionalism, safe item arrival, and pricing that doesn't come with last-minute surprises.

Where they get dinged: punctuality and claims resolution. Missed delivery windows and difficulty getting status updates show up in the negative feedback with enough frequency to notice. If your Colorado timeline is tight, get a delivery window in writing before you book. For most moves, Sterling is a reliable, fairly priced option.

- **DOT #:** 568254 | **State license:** 0189566 | **In business:** 33 years
- **Services:** Local and interstate moves; packing/unpacking; pianos, hot tubs, pool tables, art, antiques, grandfather clocks, crating; storage; fragile-only packing; full-valuation coverage; safes

**(866) 266-8751**

---

## Local moving services in Ontario, CA

Here's a quick breakdown of specialty services available among Ontario movers:

| Service | # of Movers | % of Ontario Movers |
|---|---|---|
| Interstate | 81 | 94% |
| Small moves | 42 | 49% |
| Antiques | 53 | 62% |
| Art | 54 | 63% |
| Pianos | 67 | 78% |
| Fragile-only packing | 29 | 34% |

If you're moving specialty items — pianos, antiques, art — the selection in Ontario is reasonably solid. Still, confirm specifics with any mover you're considering. "We handle pianos" covers a lot of ground, and experience levels vary widely.

## Cost to move from Ontario, CA to Colorado

This is a roughly 980-mile move. Use the table below to [estimate your move](/calculator) before you start collecting quotes.

| Move size | Moving company | Moving container | Rental truck |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1 bedroom | $1,188 – $4,489 | $771 – $1,957 | $637 – $1,173 |
| 2–3 bedrooms | $2,309 – $5,789 | $1,484 – $2,948 | $669 – $1,408 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $4,075 – $7,783 | $1,810 – $3,655 | $855 – $1,781 |

*Estimates based on a 980-mile move from Ontario, CA to Colorado, using verified market rate data as of January 2026. Actual costs vary based on exact destination, home contents, access and parking conditions, fuel costs, and timing. Get multiple quotes before committing.*

### Cost to hire movers from Ontario to Colorado

For a studio or one-bedroom move, budget $1,188 to $4,489. That range is wide because it covers everything from a light-load budget carrier to a premium [long-distance mover](/best/long-distance-movers) doing full packing and white-glove handling. A two- or three-bedroom home typically lands between $2,309 and $5,789. Larger households — four bedrooms or more — run $4,075 to $7,783 for full-service professional moving.

### Cost of moving containers from Ontario to Colorado

If you want to pack on your own schedule without driving 980 miles yourself, [moving containers](/best/moving-containers) are worth a serious look. For a studio or one-bedroom, expect $771 to $1,957. A two- or three-bedroom move runs $1,484 to $2,948. Larger homes land in the $1,810 to $3,655 range. Containers regularly come in below full-service movers while still taking the road trip off your plate.

### Cost of moving truck rentals from Ontario to Colorado

[Renting a truck](/best/truck-rentals) is almost always the cheapest option — but you're loading, driving, and unloading everything yourself across 980 miles of highway. Studio or one-bedroom: $637 to $1,173. Two- or three-bedroom: $669 to $1,408. Four-plus bedrooms: $855 to $1,781. These figures include estimated fuel. Factor in overnight lodging, your time, and your back before deciding the savings are worth it.

## Factors influencing moving costs from Ontario to Colorado

A few variables will move the needle on what you actually pay:

- **Move size:** More square footage and more belongings raises costs across every service type. Declutter before you get quotes — it directly affects your price.
- **Time of year:** Summer is peak season. Moving from Ontario to Colorado between May and September means less pricing flexibility and tighter availability. Book early.
- **DIY vs. professional:** A rental truck looks cheap on paper, but factor in fuel, lodging, and the reality of a full day's drive before you commit to doing it yourself.

## What you should know before moving from Ontario to Colorado

[Moving to Colorado](/movers/colorado) from Ontario, CA is a meaningful financial upgrade for most people. The cost gap between the two states is real, and the job market in Colorado is stronger than a lot of people coming from Southern California expect.

### Compare cost of living: Ontario vs. Colorado

| | Ontario, CA | Colorado |
|---|---|---|
| Average rent | $2,619 | $1,594 |
| Average home cost | $668,089 | $541,072 |
| Average income (per capita) | $71,908 | $87,598 |
| Cost of living index | 119 | 91 |
| Unemployment rate | 6.9% | 4.1% |
| State income tax | 13.3% | 5.49% |

*Ontario sources: World Population Review, Zillow, US Census Bureau, US BLS, Tax Foundation. Colorado sources: Zumper, Zillow, Numbeo.*

Here's what those numbers actually mean for your wallet:

- **Rent** in Colorado runs about 39% less than in Ontario. That's real money freed up every month from day one.
- **Home values** in Colorado average about 19% lower — meaningful if you're planning to buy soon after the move.
- **Per capita income** in Colorado runs about 22% higher than in Ontario, which helps offset the adjustment period.
- The **overall cost of living** in Colorado is roughly 24% lower. For most people, that means more purchasing power, not less.
- **Unemployment** in Colorado is about 41% lower than in Ontario — a tighter, more competitive job market in most sectors.
- [California's](/movers/california) state income tax tops out at 13.3%. Colorado's is 5.49%. That difference shows up in every paycheck.

### How life is different in Ontario, CA vs. Colorado

| | Ontario, CA | Colorado |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 175,265 | 5,877,610 |
| Political leaning | Democratic 49.8–48.3 | Democrat 54–46 |
| Summer high | 92°F | 86°F |
| Winter low | 43°F | 13°F |
| Annual rain | 16″ | 16″ |
| Annual snow | 0″ | 63″ |
| Crime index | 50.25 | 36.4 |

*Ontario sources: US Census Bureau, 270TOWIN, NeighborhoodScout, BestPlaces. Colorado sources: Wikipedia, AllTransit, Walk Score, NeighborhoodScout, AirNow.*

The numbers worth paying attention to:

- **Summers** in Colorado average around 86°F — a few degrees cooler than Ontario's 92°F. Not a dramatic difference, but your AC bill will reflect it.
- **Winters** are a different story entirely. Colorado drops to 13°F in winter, versus Ontario's mild 43°F. If you've never owned a snow shovel, that changes immediately.
- **Snowfall** is the biggest adjustment: Colorado averages 63 inches a year. Ontario gets zero. Plan for winter tires, cold-weather gear, and the fact that your commute will occasionally take twice as long.
- **Rainfall** is nearly identical — 16 inches annually in both places — so rain-related surprises are minimal.
- **Crime** is meaningfully lower in Colorado, with an index of 36.4 compared to Ontario's 50.25. That's not a small gap.
- **Scale:** You're going from a city of about 175,000 to a state of 5.8 million people. Depending on where in Colorado you land — Denver metro, a college town, a mountain community — the experience varies enormously. Research your specific destination, not just the state.

### Other considerations when moving to Colorado

A few things to handle before moving day so you're not dealing with them on it:

- **HOA rules:** If your new neighborhood has an HOA, check their moving day policies ahead of time. Parking restrictions, elevator windows, and move-in hours vary widely and aren't always obvious.
- **Elevator reservations:** If you're moving into a building with an elevator, reserve it in advance. Elevator conflicts on moving day are avoidable and frustrating when they happen.
- **Truck parking permits:** Some Colorado cities require permits for moving trucks parked on public streets. Call the local city office before you assume you're in the clear.
- **State licensing:** The Colorado Public Utilities Commission (COPUC) licenses and regulates intrastate movers in Colorado. Verify your mover's license before you book — it's a five-minute check that can prevent a much bigger headache.
- **Moving permits:** Colorado doesn't require a general moving permit, but check local parking rules for your specific destination city or neighborhood.
- **Change of address:** File your USPS change of address at least a week before your move date. Set your official move date so mail starts forwarding to Colorado on time.
- **Moving insurance:** Released Value Protection is included free but only covers 60 cents per pound per item — that's $6 for a 10-pound item, regardless of what it's actually worth. Full Value Protection costs more but covers actual replacement value. Have that conversation with your mover before you sign anything.
- **Moving checklist:** Use a [moving checklist](/resources/moving-checklist) to keep logistics organized in the weeks before your move. Long-distance moves have a lot of moving parts, and small details fall through the cracks more easily than you'd expect.

### Things to do in Colorado

The financial case for this move is solid. The lifestyle case is too.

**Museums:**
- Denver Botanic Gardens
- Argo Mill and Tunnel
- Rosemount Museum
- Benson Park Sculpture Garden
- Denver Museum of Nature & Science

**Parks:**
- Rocky Mountain National Park
- Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve
- Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park
- Mesa Verde National Park
- Canyons of the Ancients National Monument

**Sports teams:**
- Denver Broncos (NFL)
- Denver Nuggets (NBA)
- Colorado Rockies (MLB)
- Colorado Avalanche (NHL)
- Denver Barbarians (RSL)

**Universities:**
- University of Colorado Boulder
- Colorado State University
- University of Denver
- United States Air Force Academy
- University of Colorado Denver

## FAQ

### How long does a move from Ontario to Colorado take?

Plan for two to seven days depending on service level and the specific carriers involved. Summer moves tend to run toward the longer end of that window. Ask for a written delivery timeframe before you book — most reputable movers will provide one, and having it in writing matters if something goes sideways.

### What's the availability of custom crating among movers in Ontario?

About 64 movers in the Ontario area offer custom crating for art, antiques, and sensitive electronics. When comparing quotes, confirm that materials and dimensions match your specific items — "we do crating" is a broad claim, and execution varies.

### What is the best way to get a car from Ontario to Colorado?

If you're not driving it yourself, [auto transport](/best/car-shipping) is the straightforward answer. Look for carriers that specialize in California-to-Colorado routes and have a clear process for documenting vehicle condition at pickup and delivery.

### Why are people moving from Ontario to Colorado?

The main pull factors are economic opportunity and outdoor lifestyle. Colorado has a strong job market, taxes that don't take as big a bite, and access to outdoor recreation that's hard to match. The winters are real — but for a lot of people leaving Southern California, the mountains and snow are the point.

### Where can I find the best long-distance moving companies in Ontario?

Check out the [best long-distance movers](/best/long-distance-movers) reviewed at MoveFinders (movefinders.org). The list covers companies with verified interstate experience and a track record on routes like this one.

### Can I use cash to pay a mover in Ontario, CA?

About 36 Ontario movers currently accept cash. It's not the industry standard — most movers prefer traceable payment methods and require a deposit upfront to hold your move date. The balance is typically due at pickup or delivery depending on the company. Confirm payment terms before you sign your contract.

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Ready to see what your Ontario-to-Colorado move actually costs? Use the [MoveFinders moving cost calculator](/calculator) to get a realistic number based on your home size and timeline, then compare quotes from multiple carriers before you commit.