Moving from California to Washington
Compare cost of living, taxes, housing, and find the best moving companies for your California to Washington move.
Quick Comparison
Leaving California
Moving to Washington
Why Are People Moving from California to Washington?
The migration corridor between California and Washington is a popular interstate move. California has been experiencing net outflow while Washington continues to attract new residents.
Tax Savings: Washington 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 Washington is significantly lower than California, which is a major draw for relocating families. The average home price in Washington is $225,000 less than California, allowing movers to significantly upgrade their housing.
Climate & Weather: Both states have similar summer temperatures. Winters in Washington average 38°F, compared to 55°F in California.
Jobs & Industry: Washington's key industries include Technology, Aerospace, Agriculture, 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
Cities in Washington
Other Major Cities
Estimated Moving Cost
Based on the average distance of 1109 miles between California and Washington:
Estimates based on typical full-service interstate moves. Actual costs vary.
California → Washington Transition Checklist
Driver's License
You must obtain a Washington driver's license within 30 days of establishing residency.
Vehicle Registration
Register your vehicle in Washington within 30 days.
Voter Registration
Update your voter registration to Washington after establishing residency. You can typically register at your local DMV or online.
Vehicle Inspection
Washington vehicle inspection requirement: Emissions in select areas.
Things to Know About Washington
- • No state income tax but sales tax can exceed 10% in some areas
- • Amazon, Microsoft, Boeing, and Starbucks are headquartered here
- • Rain is frequent west of the Cascades—east side is much drier
What's Different: California vs Washington
Taxes
Weather
Cost of Living
Ready to make the move to Washington?
Get quotes from interstate carriers that regularly run routes between California and Washington.