Best Los Angeles to Tampa Movers + Moving Guide

Want help with the heavy lifting?

Get a quote now.

If you're moving from Los Angeles to Tampa and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 2,496 mile move from California to Florida go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 45 Los Angeles to Tampa moving companies and more than 15,000 movers nationwide to provide up-to-date and data-driven information about: which moving company to hire (our top recommendation is Best California Movers), how much the move costs (approximately $2,500 - $9,500 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Los Angeles compared to Tampa. With a move this big, you want big data on your side and Great Guys Moving is your trusted ally to help you sift through the noise to make informed moving decisions.

Best Los Angeles to Tampa Interstate Movers Featured Image

Best Los Angeles to Tampa Moving Companies

RankCompany NameRating QuestionAffordability IndexLicenseContact
1Best California Movers9.529.73Authorized For HHGContact
2Moving Pro, Inc.9.469.01Authorized For Property, HHGContact
3Prodigy Moving & Storage9.419.24Authorized For HHGContact
4Let's Get Moving9.149.26Authorized For HHGContact
5Two Men and a Truck9.068.51Authorized For Property, HHGContact
Phone (800) 787-5428

Cost to Move from Los Angeles to Tampa

Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 2,496 miles from Los Angeles, CA to Tampa, FL will cost on average $3,904 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Los Angeles to Tampa move is roughly $9,433. See the chart below for a detailed breakdown by type of move and home size. Pricing will vary based upon the exact locations of pickup and dropoff as well as several other factors. The most important pricing component that is often overlooked is how far away the move date is. The earlier you can reserve movers, the better your pricing and options will be.

Home SizeMoving CostVolume of Packed Items (ft³)$/ft³
Studio$2,618300 ft³8.73
1 Bedroom$3,904450 ft³8.68
2 Bedrooms$6,469750 ft³8.63
3 Bedrooms$9,4331100 ft³8.58
4 Bedrooms$13,6401600 ft³8.53
5+ Bedrooms$15,2551800 ft³8.48
*Please note: These California to Florida moving prices are rough approximations based upon nationwide data as well as local and statewide data from California & Florida. The volume listed here represents the estimated cubic footage of your household items when packed and loaded into a moving truck. To determine the exact costs associated with your move, get a quote from a licensed CA to FL mover.
California iconArrow iconFlorida icon
U-turn icon

Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Tampa to Los Angeles guide.

Compare the 5 Best Los Angeles to Tampa Movers

These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)

Best California Movers Logo

Best California Movers

Exceptional9.52/10
based on 3,003+ data points

Glendale, CA, 91206

About Best California Movers

Best California Movers is a family-owned moving company based in Southern California, with over six years of experience in the industry....

Services

  • Cheap moving services
  • Local moving services
  • Long-distance moving services

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/10/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3489907 / 1173381

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans12
Registered Drivers12
Total Annual Miles Moved157,000 (2023)
View Full Review
1
Moving Pro, Inc. Logo

Moving Pro, Inc.

Exceptional9.46/10
based on 1,438+ data points

557 Vernon Ave

Venice, CA, 90291

About Moving Pro, Inc.

Moving Pro, Inc. takes a transparent, customized, and personal approach to moving that puts its clients first. This family-owned and operated...

Services

  • Local Moving
  • Long Distance Moving
  • Car Transportation

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/10/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

1864442 / 675888

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans1
Registered Drivers1
Total Annual Miles Moved26,800 (2023)
View Full Review
2
Prodigy Moving & Storage Logo

Prodigy Moving & Storage

Exceptional9.41/10
based on 11,757+ data points

601 S Figueroa St

Los Angeles, CA, 90017

About Prodigy Moving & Storage

Serving the greater Los Angeles area and California, Prodigy Moving & Storage has moved residences and offices since 2003. As a...

Services

  • Local Moving Services
  • Long Distance Moving Services
  • Commercial Moving Services

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/9/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3983945 / 1492541 MC-430697

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans11
Registered Drivers14
Total Annual Miles Moved1 (2022)
View Full Review
3
Let's Get Moving Logo

Let's Get Moving

Exceptional9.14/10
based on 1,825+ data points

6599 Haines Rd N

St. Petersburg, FL, 33702

About Let's Get Moving

This locally-owned moving company has been serving the St. Petersburg, FL, area since 2004. Let's Get Moving is a well-known Florida...

Services

  • Commercial moving services
  • Residential moving services
  • Local moving services

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/9/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2270761 / 775415

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans6
Registered Drivers6
Total Annual Miles Moved78,000 (2023)
View Full Review
4
Two Men and a Truck Logo

Two Men and a Truck

Exceptional9.06/10
based on 5,201+ data points

2549 Seven Springs Blvd

New Port Richey, FL, 34655

About Two Men and a Truck

Two Men and a Truck is a full-service, national moving company in Florida with over 35 years of experience. With a...

Services

  • Local moving
  • Junk removal
  • Storage

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/10/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2113690 / FF-19726 812151

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans10
Registered Drivers13
Total Annual Miles Moved310,000 (2023)
View Full Review
5
Rankings You Can Trust background image
Trust Rankings icon

Dependable Rankings You Can Count On!

Our rankings are data-driven — movers cannot purchase a spot on our list. Here's why you can have confidence in our recommendations:

  • No Paid Placements: Every company earns its spot through merit, not payment.
  • Extensive Analysis: Evaluated over 24,000 movers across the country for our rankings.

Los Angeles vs. Tampa Neighborhood Comparison

Moving from one city to another can be daunting, especially when you're not familiar with your new locale. To ease the transition, we've crafted a comparison of the local neighborhoods between Los Angeles, CA & Tampa, FL . This guide helps you find areas in Tampa that mirror the vibe, community, and amenities of your favorite Los Angeles spots, making your move a little less intimidating.

Los AngelesTampaHow They're Similar
Silver LakeSeminole HeightsEclectic, artsy community
VeniceHyde ParkVibrant, walkable
Beverly HillsPalma CeiaUpscale, historic charm
Downtown LADowntown TampaUrban center, cultural attractions
HollywoodYbor CityNightlife, historic
Santa MonicaSouth TampaBeachy, laid-back
West HollywoodChannelsideTrendy, inclusive nightlife
Los FelizHyde Park againQuaint, artsy with a touch of elegance
MalibuBayshore BeautifulScenic views, waterfront lifestyle
Studio CityWestchaseFamily-friendly, suburban

When you move from the vibrant beaches of Venice with its boardwalk artists and street performers, you'll find a similar spirit alive in Tampa's Hyde Park. This neighborhood boasts charming sidewalks lined with boutique shops, local eateries, and an active social scene reminiscent of your Los Angeles hangouts. Transitioning from the upscale, celebrity-studded streets of Beverly Hills? Palma Ceia in Tampa offers that sense of exclusivity and elegance, with luxurious homes nestled among tree-lined streets. For those drawn to the nightlife and history of Hollywood, Ybor City awaits with its own rich cultural tapestry, featuring vintage shops, renowned restaurants like The Columbia Restaurant, and vibrant nightspots, ensuring your entertainment options are broad and diverse. Each Tampa neighborhood offers unique parks and recreational areas, ensuring that regardless of where you land, you'll find a welcoming community and a place to call home.

Ready to start your move?

Pros and Cons of Moving from Los Angeles to Tampa

Moving from one city to another is a journey filled with contrasts and this guide aims to shed light on moving from Los Angeles, CA to Tampa, FL. By comparing the pros and cons, we hope to provide an honest reflection of what to expect - the good, the bad, and everything in between. This comparison will help you make a well-informed decision about your relocation.

CONs
PROs
Los Angeles, CA iconLos Angeles, CA
  • High cost of living
  • Heavy traffic
  • Pollution
  • Less green space
Tampa, FL iconTampa, FL
  • More affordable housing
  • Less traffic congestion
  • Cleaner environment
  • More parks/nature
Tampa, FL iconTampa, FL
  • Smaller cultural scene
  • Less culinary diversity
  • Smaller job market
  • Fewer major events
Los Angeles, CA iconLos Angeles, CA
  • Vibrant culture
  • Diverse food options
  • Better job market
  • Year-round events

Exploring the details of these pros and cons adds depth to your decision-making process. Los Angeles is renowned for its world-class restaurants like Pizzeria Mozza and vibrant cultural venues such as the Los Angeles County Museum of Art. On the other side, Tampa offers a wealth of natural beauty with spots like The Tampa Riverwalk and serene parks such as Lettuce Lake Park. While Tampa’s culinary scene might not match LA's diversity, it still boasts gems like Bern's Steak House, known for its extensive wine collection. Making the move means trading some of LA’s urban advantages for Tampa’s more relaxed lifestyle and natural amenities.

Los Angeles vs. Tampa Food Guide

This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Los Angeles & Tampa to help you understand the food landscape of your new home. Food forms an integral part of local culture, and knowing what culinary delights await you can greatly enhance your moving experience.

Los AngelesTampa
Most iconic local food itemTacosCuban Sandwich
Most popular meat dishKorean BBQGrouper Sandwich
Most popular street food itemStreet TacosDeviled Crab
Most popular vegan foodAçai BowlVegan Cuban Sandwich
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
  • Spago
  • Philippe the Original
  • Bestia
  • Bern's Steak House
  • Columbia Restaurant
  • Ulele
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
Abundance of Food Trucks🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
Foodie Scene🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

Los Angeles, known for its sprawling food scene, offers a variety of eclectic dishes with a strong representation of international cuisines, particularly Mexican and Korean. The city's love affair with tacos is evident, with street vendors and trucks found in virtually every neighborhood. Iconic spots like Philippe the Original offer a taste of LA’s rich food history. On the other hand, Tampa’s culinary scene is deeply influenced by its waterfront and Cuban heritage, making the Cuban Sandwich a local staple. Seafood, especially the Grouper Sandwich, plays a significant role in Tampa's diet. The historic Columbia Restaurant in Ybor City not only serves as a testament to Tampa’s Spanish and Cuban influences but also as a portal to the past, showcasing the city's unique flavors and history.

Los Angeles vs. Tampa Restaurant Comparison

When relocating from Los Angeles, CA, to Tampa, FL, finding your new go-to dining spots is crucial for feeling at home. Through this Los Angeles to Tampa restaurant comparison, let's discover your next favorite eateries, transitioning your culinary adventures smoothly from one vibrant city to another.

Los AngelesTampaWhat You'll Love
BestiaBern's Steak HouseBoth offer an upscale dining experience with a focus on quality ingredients.
RepubliqueOxford ExchangeSimilar in their elegant atmosphere and diverse, high-quality menu offerings.
Howlin' RaysKing of the CoopRenowned for their delicious, spicy chicken, offering a comparable fiery kick.
Gracias MadreLocale MarketBoth tout creative, plant-based dishes that cater to the health-conscious diner.
Roscoe's House of Chicken and WafflesElla's Americana Folk Art CafeIconic comfort food with a unique, artsy vibe.
N/nakaIchicoro AneSimilar in offering a high-end, unique dining experience with a focus on Japanese cuisine.
Philippe The OriginalThe Columbia RestaurantBoth are historic eateries offering iconic dishes and a sense of tradition.
La TaqueriaArmature WorksReflects a similar range of casual yet top-quality food options in a dynamic setting.
In-N-Out BurgerBurger Culture TampaA local favorite for high-quality burgers that mirror the iconic In-N-Out experience.
Franklin BBQ4 Rivers SmokehouseHighly regarded for their BBQ, offering a taste reminiscent of LA's beloved Franklin BBQ.

Whether you find yourself missing the upscale Italian dishes from Bestia or the unique Japanese cuisine of N/naka, Tampa's culinary scene offers parallels that will satisfy your cravings and perhaps even exceed your expectations. The transition from Bestia's iconic dishes to the luxurious offerings of Bern's Steak House ensures a seamless switch in dining preferences. Similarly, the innovative Japanese dishes you've grown to love at N/naka can be found with a Tampa twist at Ichicoro Ane, where each serving is crafted with respect to tradition and local flavors. Embrace Tampa’s culinary landscape as it mirrors the vibrancy and diversity of Los Angeles’s dining scene, ensuring a flavorful transition to your new home.

CTA Banner background image

Ready to start your move?

Los Angeles vs. Tampa Real Estate & Living Facts

When considering a move, comparing the real estate landscapes between your current and future cities is essential. This comparison between Los Angeles, CA, and Tampa, FL, focuses on crucial housing aspects to help you understand the differences. By examining costs, architecture, and lifestyle, you'll be better prepared to make your decision.

ComparisonLos AngelesTampa
Typical Architecture StyleModern, SpanishCoastal, Mediterranean
Walkability 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listingOcean views, Open floor plansWaterfront, Dock access

In delving into these housing aspects, it's clear that both Los Angeles and Tampa offer unique living experiences. Los Angeles, with its higher median home price, reflects the city's bustling urban lifestyle and modern architectural preferences. Meanwhile, Tampa's more affordable housing market accentuates its coastal charm and accessibility to waterfront living. Notably, the urban lifestyle scores, while slightly higher in Los Angeles, suggest that Tampa is also vibrant, underscored by its own distinct cultural and recreational activities. Whether you prioritize walkability, bikeability, or specific architectural styles, both cities cater to diverse preferences and lifestyles, making them appealing for different reasons.

Los Angeles vs. Tampa Weather Considerations

Moving from one city to another means adapting to new environments, especially the weather. Understanding how the climate in Los Angeles compares to that in Tampa is crucial for a smooth transition. This comparison will prepare you for the differences in weather you will experience, from temperatures to natural hazards.

Summer icon
85°F / 64°F

Los Angeles, CA

90°F / 76°F

Tampa, FL

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
68°F / 48°F

Los Angeles, CA

70°F / 52°F

Tampa, FL

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
15 inches

Los Angeles, CA

50 inches

Tampa, FL

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
0 inches

Los Angeles, CA

0 inches

Tampa, FL

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

ComparisonLos AngelesTampa
Air QualityModerateGood
Natural DisastersEarthquakes, WildfiresHurricanes, Flooding
Days of Sunshine per Year☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. UV Index🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Avg. Annual Humidity💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦

When moving from Los Angeles to Tampa, you'll find the humidity and rainfall significantly higher in Tampa, which might take some getting used to. The summer temperatures are somewhat higher in Tampa, accompanied by a noticeable increase in humidity, making the heat feel more intense. While both cities enjoy plenty of sunshine, Tampa experiences more days with thunderstorms, especially during the summer months. Additionally, while Los Angeles faces threats from earthquakes and wildfires, Tampa's primary natural disaster risks include hurricanes and flooding. Adapting to these differences is key to thriving in your new environment.

Ready to start your move?

Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Los Angeles to Tampa

When contemplating a move from one city to another, comparing the financial landscape is crucial. Understanding how the cost of living, income, taxes, and economic environment in Los Angeles compare to Tampa will help ensure a smooth transition and financial planning. This insight into the economic factors can make a significant difference in your lifestyle and budgeting strategies post-move.

ComparisonLos AngelesTampa
Avg. Household Income$70,372$63,404
Cost of Living Index136.492.4
State Income Tax13.30
Avg. Property Tax0.7930.98
Avg. Sales Tax9.57
Top 3 IndustriesEntertainment, Manufacturing, TechnologyFinance, Healthcare, Tourism
AffluenceVariedModerate
PovertyNotableLower
HomelessnessHighModerate

Moving from Los Angeles to Tampa, you'll find significant differences in the cost of living, with Tampa being considerably more affordable, as highlighted by its lower cost of living index. A standout difference is the total absence of state income tax in Florida, offering a welcome financial relief compared to the substantial taxes in California. While the average household income in Tampa may be lower, the overall affordability and reduced tax burden can enhance your financial well-being. The dominant industries also shift from entertainment and technology in Los Angeles to finance, healthcare, and tourism in Tampa, hinting at varied job opportunities. Considering these factors can guide your budgeting and lifestyle choices in your new home.

Los Angeles vs. Tampa Political & Religious Comparison

When planning your move from Los Angeles, CA, to Tampa, FL, it's helpful to understand the communities you're transitioning between. This comparison of the politics between Los Angeles & Tampa offers a quick glimpse into the political and religious landscape of both cities, providing insights into the typical makeup of their populations.

Los AngelesTampa
Political Make-upLiberal/DemocraticModerately Conservative/Leaning Republican
Local PoliticsStrong focus on environment, housingEmphasis on economic development, public safety
ReligionVaried, with no single dominant faithBalanced mix, strong Christian presence

While both cities boast diverse populations with a blend of cultures and communities, the political leanings and priorities of their residents differ substantially. Los Angeles is known for its liberal stance, with a strong emphasis on environmental and housing issues. In contrast, Tampa tends to lean more towards the conservative side, with a greater focus on economic development and public safety. The religious makeup of Los Angeles is incredibly varied, reflecting its diverse population, whereas Tampa has a significant Christian community alongside other faiths. Understanding these differences can help you anticipate the social and cultural climate of your new home.

Los Angeles vs. Tampa Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

Understanding the differences in traffic and transportation options between Los Angeles & Tampa can help you prepare for your daily commute in a new city. This comparison will help you better understand what driving and transiting might be like as you relocate.

ComparisonLos AngelesTampa
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)3025
Traffic Congestion 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦
Availability of Public Transit 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇
Can you get by without car?ChallengingDifficult

Los Angeles is known for its challenging traffic conditions, with an average commute time of 30 minutes and high congestion levels. In contrast, Tampa offers a somewhat more relaxed scenario, albeit still busy, with a shorter average commute time and slightly lesser traffic congestion. Public transit availability is more comprehensive in Los Angeles, thanks to its vast network of buses and a growing metro system, making it somewhat easier to get around without a car compared to Tampa, where public transit options are more limited, making a car more of a necessity for daily commutes.

CTA Banner background image
Connect with one of our Certified Moving Partners.
Best Los Angeles to Tampa Movers Featured Image