Moving from California to Florida: A Complete Guide
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Moving from California to Florida can be a huge adjustment in day-to-day life, climate, and housing costs. Despite their similar coastal locations, California and Florida are polar opposites in many ways.
A cross-country move of this size can be difficult to plan for, but this guide will help you adjust to Florida life and figure out your long-distance moving strategy.
Key Takeaways
- Compare the climate, housing, expenses, transportation, and severe weather risks before moving.
- Start planning early so you have time to compare quotes, reserve equipment, and create a personal moving budget.
- A DIY move may lower labor costs, but the cheapest option depends on a variety of factors like timing and home size.
- U-Box® containers can be shipped to your new address or stored and brought to you at a later date.
Florida vs. California
Despite both being known for their beaches, Florida and California have very different climates and lifestyles.
Florida is much more humid than California and is warmer year-round. Florida is also known for consistent heavy rainstorms in the summer months due to its subtropical climate.
When moving to Florida, it’s important to note that hurricanes occur almost every year. Securing the proper insurance and ensuring that your new home can withstand hurricanes are important factors to consider when buying a home.
Cost of Living
Californians moving to Florida will typically notice a lower cost of living in their new state.
A key difference is that Florida has no state income tax, while California’s top rate is 13.3%.
Housing, gas, and renting costs also differ greatly between California and Florida. Below, you can see a comparison of average prices for California and Florida.
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States
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Average rent price
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Florida
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986 sq. ft.
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$1,998
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$4.33
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$433,600
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California
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854 sq. ft.
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$2,685
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$6.11
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$866,100
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Rent and gas costs are listed per month. Rent prices listed are combined from all sizes. Information gathered September 2026 and is subject to change.
Comparing cities is also important when planning on moving states. Below is a comparison between Jacksonville and Los Angeles.
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Cities
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Average Cost of Renting an Apartment
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Jacksonville, FL
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$374,396
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$1,306/month
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Los Angeles, CA
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$1,346,487
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$2,200/month
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Information was gathered in October 2026 and is subject to change.
Daily Life
California and Florida are both coastal states; however, they have incredibly different lifestyles.
California has a fast-paced, urban lifestyle and, depending on the city, has plenty of public transit options. There are many beautiful beaches in California, but it also has a more diverse landscape that includes deserts and mountains.
Comparing specific cities, however, is important rather than relying on statewide averages. Many factors depend on the city you are moving to and from.
California cities also act as hubs for certain industries like technology and entertainment.
Florida, on the other hand, has a more relaxed lifestyle, especially in areas with many retirees, like The Villages, Naples, and Sarasota. There’s an emphasis on waterfront living with miles of beautiful beaches. Florida is also more car-centric than California.
How Can I Move from California to Florida?
Moving cross-country requires careful planning, budgeting, and time to book movers and pack up your items.
It’s best to start early so you can book and research cross-country moving companies. You can book full-service movers to make your move a little easier, but there are also many DIY moving options.
Your choice of moving options depends on your budget and timeline. The timing of your move and the size of your new home can impact the price of your move.
A DIY move with a truck or trailer can be one of the least expensive options when moving across the country.
When you rent a U-Haul truck for a cross-country move, you can choose the right size truck to take to your new home.
Between driving or getting full-service movers, there is a middle ground. You can ship your belongings to your new location using U-Box containers.
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Moving with U-Box Containers
With U-Box containers, you can load your items at your own pace. U-Haul can then ship the container to your destination or store it in a secure U-Haul facility until you’re ready for delivery.
U-Box containers can also be dropped off at your new home with no contact delivery. This way, you can unpack your belongings at your own pace as you settle into your new home.
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To and From Destination
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U-Box by U-Haul – Two containers (494 cubic feet)
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U-Pack® - Two ReloCubes® (616 cubic feet)
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Los Angeles, CA (90021) to Jacksonville, FL (32246)
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$3,725.90
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$5,641
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*Quotes were made one month out on [October 2, 2026] for two shipping containers. Quotes were made without including any insurance costs or moving labor assistance. For U-Box quotes, the truck delivery option was used as standard. Prices are subject to change.
Using a storage container will also save room in your vehicle if you plan to drive to Florida, making it a useful option if you have any extra items.
Settling In
Once you’ve completed your move, you can begin settling into your new life in Florida, meeting your neighbors, and exploring your city.
You can also update your mailing address, driver’s license, and anything else that may be required.
Ready to start your move from California to Florida? Get a quote and book a U-Box container today.