Moving from California to Colorado

You may have heard that Colorado is one of the fastest-growing states in the country, but did you know most of those new arrivals come from the Golden State? In recent years, Colorado has seen more inbound migration from California than any other state, and for good reason!With a booming economy, lower taxes, and a more affordable cost of living, Colorado offers exciting opportunities for Californians.

Combine that with breathtaking scenery and an active, outdoor-focused culture, and it’s no surprise Colorado is a prime destination. Let’s take a closer look at why Colorado is a great place to live, how you can go about relocating, and what you can expect to pay when moving from California to Colorado.

What’s Included in Your Move

Allied Van Lines is one of the most trusted long-distance moving companies in California. As a globally recognized leader in the industry, we offer world-class services tailored to your specific needs. While many California moving companies offer rigid packages that make you pay for more than you need, our team puts the power in your hands.

We offer:

• Full-service or fragile-only packing & unpacking
• Furniture disassembly and reassembly
• Loading and unloading
• Moving valuation coverage (included with every relocation)
• Shipment tracking
• Secure storage options
• Personal relocation coordinator

Select the services that fit your needs and budget, and our dedicated team will handle the rest.

When you choose Allied, you benefit from a nationwide team of moving agents and over 98 years of experience. We provide household moving, corporate relocations, and more. Every move includes 24/7 customer service for your peace of mind.

Benefits of Moving from California to Colorado

Colorado’s incredible diversity draws people of all backgrounds and interests. Whether you prefer agricultural plains, modern city living, desert views, or Rocky Mountain heights, you’ll find them here. 

Colorado’s climate offers beautiful changing seasons, offering a new experience for many Californians, and nearly 300 days of sunshine each year to help them feel right at home. Want a change of pace? Drive an hour through Colorado, and you’ll find a different climate, from snowy slopes to sunny sands.

Even urban centers like Denver and Colorado Springs offer stunning views of the Rockies. Wherever you settle down, a plethora of gorgeous recreation areas, national parks, and other destinations are just a short day trip away, including Rocky Mountain National Park, Mesa Verde National Park, Vail, Las Vegas, and the Canyonlands of Moab, Utah.

Cost of Living

While the cost of living in Colorado is about 12% higher than the national average, it’s still 24% cheaper than in California. The price of new homes is rising, but Californians will find purchasing, renting, and utilities much more affordable. Healthcare costs in Colorado are 4.2% below the national average, even though the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services ranks Colorado as one of the top 10 providers of medical care in the country. Colorado offers low property taxes and a flat-rate income tax (with no income taxes on social security for seniors), providing the 7th lowest effective tax rate in the country.

Economic Growth

Colorado continues its recent economic boom with an expected 2.9% GDP growth in 2026, outpacing national rates. Unemployment is expected to fall nearly half a percentage point this year, while personal income is forecasted to rise by 4.5%. While changing tariff policies and inflation and interest rates affect the whole nation, Colorado offers a resilient and adaptable economy that can help overburdened Californians weather uncertainty.

Active Outdoor Lifestyle

Like California, outdoor activities abound year-round in Colorado. From world-class skiing in Breckenridge or Vail to endless opportunities for summertime hiking, rafting, biking, horseback riding, climbing, or backpacking, Colorado is a haven for active lifestyles.

Stunning Scenery

Worried you’ll miss California’s iconic views? You haven’t seen anything yet! Colorado residents are treated to majestic views of the Rockies, breathtaking canyons, sprawling forests, tranquil rivers and lakes, and some of the most beautiful autumn foliage in the world. In addition to the breathtaking landscape, residents enjoy four national parks, three historic trails, 11 national forests, 44 state parks, and 307 wildlife areas.

Most Popular Cities to Live in Colorado

Boulder

Known for the breathtaking Flatirons and a cozy university culture, Boulder offers a high quality of life with extensive outdoor activities and world-class educational institutions.

Fort Collins

Fort Collins is consistently ranked among the best places to live in the country. The area maintains a charming, mid-sized feel, with a growing tech scene anchored by HP and Intel.

Colorado Springs

Colorado Springs provides a more affordable alternative to Denver while offering urban amenities and high-tech employment in aerospace and defense. It’s a hub for military families and outdoor enthusiasts.

Denver

The Mile High City is the primary destination for many moving from California to Colorado. Denver is the urban heart of the Mountain West, offering a booming job market, professional sports, and a diverse culinary scene.

Cost of Moving from California to Colorado

The average linehaul cost (the transportation costs) of a move from California to Colorado with Allied Van Lines is $8,400. There are many variables that will determine the cost of a move, such as distance, volume of belongings, oversized items, and additional services like packing and unpacking. For the most accurate price, request a free quote from a moving company near you. 

How to Move from California to Colorado

The first step in your relocation should be finding a reputable moving company serving California to Colorado relocations. Compare quotes to help you estimate moving costs to Colorado; this will help you set a reasonable budget.

Next, start decluttering your home to reduce your packing needs and save money during the move. If you choose Allied Van Lines, an experienced moving coordinator will help you select the services you need, schedule pickup, shipping, and storage as needed, and provide support throughout the process.

Why Allied Van Lines?

Relocating to a new state can be a daunting task, but a trustworthy moving company can make all the difference. Since 1928, Allied Van Lines has helped thousands of families and businesses relocate from the California beaches to the Colorado peaks with efficient, affordable long-distance moving services.

If you’re considering moving from California to Colorado, Allied can help. We offer personal, customized packages that let you select the moving services that fit your needs and budget. We offer professional packing and crating, transportation with valuation coverage, and unloading and setup services to make your entire relocation streamlined and stress-free.

We would love to help with your move! Give us a call today or request a free quote to get started.

FAQs

Is Colorado an expensive place to live?

Colorado has a cost of living about 12% higher than the national average. However, compared to California’s 36%, it’s still generally more affordable than California’s metro areas.

When is the best time to move to Colorado?

Late spring and early autumn offer the most predictable (and beautiful) weather for driving through Colorado. Moving during the winter can be challenging due to snow, while summer is the peak season for California moving companies.

What should I know before moving to Colorado?

Many Californians don’t anticipate the effects of altitude; staying hydrated and pacing your activities is essential in the thinner air. The range of weather conditions and related requirements (like tire chains) can also surprise new arrivals.

Is Colorado a good place to live?

Colorado offers over 300 days of sunshine a year, stunning mountain views and outdoor activities, a variety of climates, and a strong and growing economy. While preferences are subjective, there’s a reason it’s such a popular destination for movers!

What industries are strong in Colorado?

Major industries in Colorado include aerospace, renewable energy, defense, and tech. Denver and Boulder specifically serve as major hubs for bioscience and software development.