Moving from California to Tennessee
Compare cost of living, taxes, housing, and find the best moving companies for your California to Tennessee move.
Quick Comparison
Leaving California
Moving to Tennessee
Why Are People Moving from California to Tennessee?
The migration corridor between California and Tennessee is a popular interstate move. California has been experiencing net outflow while Tennessee continues to attract new residents.
Tax Savings: Tennessee has no state income tax, compared to 1%-13.3% in California. This tax difference is one of the primary financial motivations for this move.
Cost of Living: The cost of living in Tennessee is significantly lower than California, which is a major draw for relocating families. The average home price in Tennessee is $455,000 less than California, allowing movers to significantly upgrade their housing.
Climate & Weather: Both states have similar summer temperatures. Winters in Tennessee average 38°F, compared to 55°F in California.
Jobs & Industry: Tennessee's key industries include Healthcare, Music Industry, Automotive, which attract professionals from California's Technology and Entertainment sectors.
Popular City-to-City Routes
Cities in California
Los Angeles
San Diego
San Jose
San Francisco
Fresno
Sacramento
Bakersfield
Anaheim
Santa Ana
Long Beach
Estimated Moving Cost
Based on the average distance of 2398 miles between California and Tennessee:
Estimates based on typical full-service interstate moves. Actual costs vary.
California → Tennessee Transition Checklist
Driver's License
You must obtain a Tennessee driver's license within 30 days of establishing residency.
Vehicle Registration
Register your vehicle in Tennessee within 30 days.
Voter Registration
Update your voter registration to Tennessee after establishing residency. You can typically register at your local DMV or online.
Vehicle Inspection
Tennessee vehicle inspection requirement: Emissions in select counties.
Things to Know About Tennessee
- • No state income tax on wages or salary
- • Nashville is one of the fastest-growing US cities
- • Vehicle emissions testing required in Davidson and surrounding counties
What's Different: California vs Tennessee
Taxes
Weather
Cost of Living
Ready to make the move to Tennessee?
Get quotes from interstate carriers that regularly run routes between California and Tennessee.