Los Angeles is California's largest city and one of the most active moving markets in the US. The city spans 503 square miles, making "local" moves potentially quite long. LA also has strict parking permit requirements for moving trucks in many neighborhoods.
Move Type
Home Size
Estimated Cost
Local (within Los Angeles)
Studio / 1BR
$400–$900
Local
2 Bedroom
$900–$2,200
Local
3–4 Bedroom
$1,800–$4,200
Long-Distance (500 mi)
2–3 Bedroom
$3,000–$5,000
Long-Distance / Cross-Country
3+ Bedroom
$3,000–$7,500
Local tip: Traffic on LA freeways adds significant time to local moves — schedule your movers to start before 7am or after 10am.
Best Time to Move in Los Angeles
Peak moving season in Los Angeles is Jun–Aug, when prices are highest and movers book up weeks in advance. If you have flexibility, plan your move for Nov–Feb to save 15–25% and have more scheduling options.
Mid-week moves (Tuesday–Thursday) are almost always cheaper than weekend moves — often by 10–15%. The end of the month is the most expensive and hardest to book because most leases expire then.
How to Get the Best Moving Quotes in Los Angeles
Get at least 3 quotes. Prices in Los Angeles vary widely between companies for the exact same move. The spread between the highest and lowest quote is often 25–40%.
Verify FMCSA licensing. All legitimate movers must hold an active USDOT number. Check any company at protectyourmove.gov before signing anything.
Get a binding estimate. A binding estimate guarantees your price won't change on moving day. Non-binding estimates can result in surprise charges.
Ask about all fees upfront. Confirm: Are there stair fees? Long-carry charges? Fuel surcharges? Elevator fees? Get the full picture before you commit.
Check reviews on multiple platforms. Google, Yelp, and the BBB all matter. Look for patterns in complaints, not just the star rating.
What's Included in a Los Angeles Moving Quote
A standard moving quote typically includes loading, unloading, the truck, and basic liability coverage. These things usually cost extra and should be discussed upfront:
Packing and unpacking services ($200–$800 depending on home size)
Local moves in Los Angeles typically cost $900–$2,200 for a 2-bedroom home. Long-distance moves out of Los Angeles average $3,000–$7,500 depending on destination and home size.
The best time to move in Los Angeles is Nov–Feb — demand is lower and prices are typically 15–25% below peak season rates (Jun–Aug).
Get at least 3 quotes from different companies. The price difference between the cheapest and most expensive quote for the same move is often 25–40%. Never hire the first mover you call.
All legitimate interstate movers must be licensed by the FMCSA with an active USDOT number. Local movers are regulated by the state. Verify any mover at protectyourmove.gov before booking.