While California’s net population growth might be declining, Los Angeles is still a popular destination for many California natives looking to enjoy some of the best that SoCal has to offer.
Are you considering a move from Sacramento to Los Angeles? If so, you’re in for a treat! LA is an incredible city with plenty of things to do and see. However, before you make the move, there are a few things you’ll need to know.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll provide you with everything you need to know about moving from Sacramento to Los Angeles. We’ll cover everything from the best neighborhoods to moving tips for the big day. Keep scrolling to learn how to make your move as smooth as possible.
An Overview of Los Angeles, CA
Los Angeles is the second most populous city in the United States and the largest city in the State of California. The Los Angeles metropolitan area is home to over 13 million people, making it one of the most populous urban regions in the world.
This is what makes Los Angeles such a global city. Moving here means you’ll enjoy a diverse economy that includes entertainment, manufacturing, finance, and trade.
The Los Angeles area is also home to many well-known tourist destinations, such as Hollywood, Disneyland, and Santa Monica. Simply put, when moving to Los Angeles, you better prepare to never be bored. There’s always something to do and see in this part of Southern California.
Why Move to Los Angeles From Sacramento?
Moving from Sacramento to Los Angeles can be a great way to change up your scenery and expand your horizons. You don’t have to look far for numerous great reasons to make the move, but we’re going to provide you with a few below anyway (hey, we’re California movers and it’s what we do).
All things considered, moving from Sacramento to Los Angeles can be a great decision for many people. If you’re looking for a change of pace and some new adventures, LA is the place for you.
Here are a few of the reasons why it’s a great idea to make the move down to Los Angeles.
Jobs
Los Angeles is known for being a major hub of business and industry. If you’re looking to further your career, moving to LA may provide you with more opportunities to do so. Overall, the job growth rate in Los Angeles is similar to the growth rate in Sacramento.
However, there are a few key differences. Networking events and job fairs are always taking place in Los Angeles, so you’ll have plenty of chances to meet new people and land the job of your dreams. Likewise, because the city’s bigger, there are more major companies present.
Restaurants
There’s no denying that the restaurant scene in Los Angeles is miles ahead of what’s available in Sacramento. For one, the sheer number of options is staggering. Whether you’re looking for a quick bite or a leisurely meal, you’re sure to find something to your taste in LA.
The city is also home to some of the world’s best chefs, meaning you can enjoy restaurant-quality food without having to break the bank. Plus, with LA’s diverse population, you’re sure to find cuisine from all corners of the globe.
Climate
The weather in Los Angeles is notoriously superior to that of Sacramento. If you’re sick of gray skies and cold winters, moving to LA will help you trade them in for sunny days and mild temperatures all year round. Trust us, your skin will thank you.
Just how much sun can you expect in Los Angeles? On average, there are 285 days of sun per year in the City of Angels. While Sacramento is sunny as well, it only gets about an average of 260 days of sun per year.
Ultimately, it’s the milder temperatures that most people enjoy when moving to Los Angeles from Northern California.
Schools
When it comes to the cities with the best schools in California, you’ll note that schools in San Diego and Los Angeles top the list.
In fact, current school rankings note that La Cañada Flintridge, San Marino, and Palos Verdes Estates (all of which are suburbs of Los Angeles) are home to some of the best schools in the state.
While it’s important to help your child adjust to their new school, moving to a new city can be exciting for them as well. Check out schools such as Palm Crest Elementary School, Crescenta Valley High School, or San Marino High School. All feature A+ ratings.
Things to Do
Los Angeles is a much larger city than Sacramento, so you’ll have a lot more options when it comes to things to do. There’s always something going on in LA, whether it’s a new restaurant opening or a big concert at Staples Center.
The city is also home to some of the best museums in the country, including the Getty Center and the Museum of Contemporary Art. If you’re a fan of the outdoors, you can explore one of the many hiking trails in Griffith Park or take a stroll through Venice Beach.
Best Neighborhoods in Los Angeles
Los Angeles is a uniquely diverse city with numerous neighborhoods each with its character and charm. If you’re moving to Los Angeles, deciding where to live is going to be one of the biggest decisions you have to make.
To help make that decision a little easier, here is a breakdown of three great neighborhoods to look into for different styles of living and professional needs.
Cheviot Hills
If you’re interested in the glitz and glam of Beverly Hills but don’t want to pay Beverly Hills prices then consider moving to Cheviot Hills. Cheviot Hills is a great neighborhood to move to if you’re looking for a classic Los Angeles experience.
The palm tree-lined streets and picturesque homes give it the Los Angeles postcard look you expect when you think of moving to LA. In terms of things to do, you’ll have plenty of green spaces to enjoy and the Rancho Park Golf Academy or the Cheviot Hills Tennis Center nearby.
All in all, this is a great option for young families moving from Sacramento to Los Angeles with children. If you’re interested in a classic California lifestyle in a residential area, this is the place for you.
Playa Del Rey
Prefer to live closer to the beach? Santa Monica is popular, but Playa Del Rey is best for those looking for a more budget-friendly location.
Playa del Rey is a great place to live if you’re looking to be close to Los Angeles without actually living in the city. The beach is only a few minutes away, and the airport is even closer. This makes it a great choice for single people who travel a lot.
Playa del Rey also has a small-town feel, which is refreshing compared to the hustle and bustle of downtown Los Angeles. There are plenty of independent stores and restaurants to check out, and the walkability score is four out of five.
Los Feliz
If you’re interested in a mix between city life and laidback California cool then Los Feliz is exactly the spot for you. This Los Angeles neighborhood is known as a hipster haven, home to everything new and cool.
The neighborhood is adjacent to both Hollywood and Silver Lake, so you’re never far from the action. And, because Los Feliz is situated on a hill, you always have stunning views of Los Angeles.
Los Feliz is also home to some of Los Angeles’s best parks. Griffith Park, in particular, is perfect for joggers, hikers, and anyone who loves being outdoors. At one end of the park, you’ll find the Los Angeles Zoo; at the other end, you’ll find the famous Hollywood sign. You’ll have it all!
A Checklist for Moving From Sacramento to Los Angeles
Are you ready to move to Los Angeles? Before you start to pack up all your belongings, it’s great to take a step back and develop a moving plan.
Moving to a new city can be both exciting and overwhelming. There’s so much to think about, from hiring movers in California to transferring your utilities. It’s important to have a moving checklist to make sure you don’t forget anything important. For a long-distance move from Sacramento to Los Angeles, here are some things you’ll need to remember.
Create a Moving Budget
One of the best moving tips that many people forget about is to start by creating a moving budget. Moving is never cheap, but a long-distance move can be especially costly.
In addition to the cost of working with a moving company, you’ll also need to account for things like travel expenses and temporary housing. Start by making a list of all the expected costs, such as moving truck rental, gas, lodging, and food. Then, research the average cost of each item in your area. This will give you a good estimate of how much you’ll need to budget for each item.
Once you have a total estimated cost, add 10-20% for unexpected expenses.
Choose the Right Moving Services
There are a lot of moving companies out there, and it can be tough to know which one is right for you. Here are a few things to keep in mind when you’re making your decision.
First, think about what services you need.
Do you just need someone to transport your belongings from point A to point B? Or do you need packing services, too? Some moving companies offer basic transportation services, while others provide full-service moving packages that include everything from packing to storage. Make sure you know what you need before you start looking at companies.
Next, take a look at the reputation of the moving company. How long have they been in business? Do they have any positive reviews? You can usually find this information online, so it’s worth doing a bit of research before you make your decision.
Finally, get price quotes from several different movers in California. This will help you get an idea of how much the move will cost and allow you to compare prices. Once you’ve gathered all this information, you’ll be able to choose the right moving company for your needs.
Pack One Room at a Time
If you’ve opted out of paying for packing services then you’ll need to start packing about a month in advance of your big move. When you’re packing your house to move to Los Angeles, it’s best to do it one room at a time. This way, you can focus on packing each room completely before moving on to the next one.
Plus, it’ll be easier to keep track of everything you need to pack if you do it this way. For example, if you’re packing your kitchen, you can start by packing all of the pots and pans, then the dishes, then the silverware, and so on. This method will help ensure that you don’t forget anything and that everything arrives at your new home in one piece.
Plan Ahead for Hiccups
There are a few things that can trip you up when moving to a new city, but if you’re prepared for them, they shouldn’t be a big deal. Namely, it’s essential to make sure you have all the necessary paperwork in order. You’ll need to update your driver’s license, car registration, and insurance once you move.
Additionally, before you move, it’s helpful to scope out the best routes for walking or driving and learn where the closest grocery store, pharmacy, and other essentials are located.
Finally, give yourself some time to adjust to your new surroundings. It can take a while to get used to living in a new place, so don’t expect everything to feel perfect right away. If you’re prepared for a few bumps in the road, moving from Sacramento to Los Angeles can be a smooth process.
What Is the Cost of Moving From Sacramento to Los Angeles?
So, what can you expect to pay for a move from Sacramento to Los Angeles?
The total moving cost depends on the size of your home and the distance you’re moving. However, it’s important to keep in mind that Los Angeles is nearly 400 miles away from Sacramento. By most standards, this qualifies the move as a long-distance move.
Current average moving costs in California range anywhere between $300 to $3,500, so keep this in mind!
Get a Free Moving Quote
Are you moving from Sacramento to Los Angeles and need to hire a moving company? Our team of professional California movers is here to help you transition seamlessly to your new life in Los Angeles.
There are several factors that will affect the cost of your move, including the distance you’re moving, the size of your home, and the number of belongings you have. Getting a free moving quote can help you budget for your move and make sure you don’t spend more than you can afford.
Click here to get a FREE custom quote for your move to Los Angeles.