How To Move To California With Pictures

California is notorious for its high cost of living. In Los Angeles, the average rent is $2,265 and the median home price is $799,000. [2] X Research source

The average rent in San Diego is about $1,887, while the median home cost is $629,000. [4] X Research source

Make sure to do your research beforehand and figure out what quality of life you can afford here. Bay Area rents can range from $2,900 in San Francisco to $1,952 in Oakland. It typically costs about $900,000 for a home. [6] X Research source

If an area seems out of your price range, try looking for a different form of housing. It might be cheaper to rent an apartment rather than buy, or to simply rent a room in a house that’s already occupied. Take transportation into account when you’re deciding on an area. If living directly in a city is out of your budget, see whether you could live farther out but close to a metro line or bus stop.

Make sure to only look on legitimate websites, which will be well put together and have security measures, like outside checks on listings. If you use a less-vetted website, like Craigslist, keep an eye out for scams. Never send a seller money through Western Union or a prepaid credit card, and be cautious if they seem to be pushing you to take the rental quickly and without much information. [8] X Research source You can also use a realtor or rental agent to help you with your search.

This is also important in case the place you were looking at gets taken before you can contact the seller about it.

If you can, try to visit the place before you sign for it so you know exactly what condition it’s in. If you can’t get to California for an in-person visit, ask the seller or landlord to take you on a video tour of it.

When you’re looking for a roommate, use the same caution as you would when finding an apartment or house. You’ll be living with this person, so don’t be afraid to ask them questions about their lifestyle and habits.

Sell or give away anything you don’t use anymore, like old clothing, electronics, or books. [10] X Expert Source Cindy HofenProfessional Organizer & Home Staging Specialist Expert Interview. 13 February 2020. The less you move, the more you’ll save on shipping or moving costs. Check what your new apartment or home comes furnished with. If it comes with a refrigerator, microwave, bed, or other essentials, those are all things you don’t have to move.

A professional moving company will be more expensive, but you likely won’t know the full cost until after an evaluation. Shipping container costs vary by destination and container size.

Only use a rental truck if you’re comfortable driving a big vehicle without using a rearview mirror—most only have side mirrors. The cost of renting a truck will depend on the size of the truck, the distance you’re traveling, and the amount of time you’re renting for.

You can also see if any friends or family will help you drive your things to California. Packing up 2 cars will give you twice as much space for your belongings.

You should also make sure to bring the essential items you’ll need in the meantime before your belongings arrive, like some clean clothes and toiletries.

You’ll also take a few examinations to test your vision and knowledge of California road laws. To verify your residency, provide an official document that states your new California address. This could be your rental or lease agreement, mortgage bill, or employment documentation, among other options.

You’ll need to pay a $21 title fee to complete the transfer. For links and more information, go to https://www. dmv. org/ca-california/title-transfers. php. Start this process no later than 20 days after your move, as required by the state of California.

To register to vote, you’ll need to be 18 years old as of the next election. You’ll also need to provide proof of your identity, such as your driver’s license or the last 4 digits of your Social Security number, and your address.