Best Fresno to San Francisco Movers + Moving Guide

Want help with the heavy lifting?

Interstate MoversChevron RightCaliforniaChevron RightFresno to San Francisco

Get a quote now.

If you're moving from Fresno to San Francisco and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 193 mile long distance California move go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 116 Fresno to San Francisco moving companies and more than 20,000 movers nationwide to provide up-to-date and data-driven information about: which moving company to hire (our top recommendation is Sweet Lemon Moving Services), how much the move costs (approximately $1,500 - $4,500 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Fresno compared to San Francisco. 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 Fresno to San Francisco Interstate Movers Featured Image

Best Fresno to San Francisco Moving Companies

Company
Score Question
Affordability Index
1Sweet Lemon Moving Services9.789.67
2OCD Moving Services LLC9.679.47
3Strong Oak Moving9.289.15
4College Hunks Hauling Junk and Moving9.209.14
5Pack It Up Movers9.179.44
Phone (800) 787-5428

How Much Does it Cost to Move from Fresno to San Francisco?

Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 193 miles from Fresno, CA to San Francisco, CA will cost on average $1,945 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Fresno to San Francisco move is roughly $4,645. 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$1,312300 ft³$4.37
1 Bedroom$1,945450 ft³$4.32
2 Bedrooms$3,205750 ft³$4.27
3 Bedrooms$4,6451100 ft³$4.22
4 Bedrooms$6,6771600 ft³$4.17
5+ Bedrooms$7,4211800 ft³$4.12
*Please note: These California to California moving prices are rough approximations based upon nationwide data as well as local and statewide data from California & California. 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 CA mover.
U-turn icon

Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from San Francisco to Fresno guide.

Compare the 5 Best Fresno to San Francisco Movers

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

Sweet Lemon Moving Services Logo

Sweet Lemon Moving Services

Exceptional9.78/10
based on 3,489+ data points

403 Elwood Ave

Oakland, CA, 94610

About Sweet Lemon Moving Services

As a full-service moving company, Sweet Lemon Moving Services has been performing moves in Oakland and the wider Bay Area since...

Services

  • Local Moves
  • Interstate Moves
  • Commercial Moves

Interstate Moving License

Circle X Mark
Not Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/9/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3277021 / -

Not Authorized

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans8
Registered Drivers8
Total Annual Miles Moved5,000 (2021)
View Full Review
1
OCD Moving Services LLC Logo

OCD Moving Services LLC

Exceptional9.67/10
based on 2,922+ data points

5914 Cobblestone Ct

El Sobrante, CA, 94803

About OCD Moving Services LLC

For over five years, OCD Moving Services LLC has been providing Oakland and the Bay Area with residential and commercial relocation...

Services

  • Local Moving
  • Long Distance Moving
  • Commercial Moving

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2597230 / 911812

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans6
Registered Drivers6
Total Annual Miles Moved153,000 (2022)
View Full Review
2
Strong Oak Moving Logo

Strong Oak Moving

Exceptional9.28/10
based on 321+ data points

Tulare, CA

About Strong Oak Moving

Strong Oak Moving is a full-service California moving company serving customers in Visalia, Tulare, Hanford, Lemoore, Fresno, Clovis, and surrounding areas....

Services

  • Local Moving
  • Long-Distance Moving
  • Cross-Country Moving
View Full Review
3
College Hunks Hauling Junk and Moving Logo

College Hunks Hauling Junk and Moving

Exceptional9.20/10
based on 3,202+ data points

317 W Bedford Ave # 106

Fresno, CA, 93711

About College Hunks Hauling Junk and Moving

College Hunks Hauling Junk and Moving is the moving company for people who want the job done right, every time. Founded...

Services

  • Full-service moving company
  • Junk Removal & Trash Pickup
  • Hourly moving & packing services

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 9/11/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2966877 / 53286

Authorized For Property

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans5
Registered Drivers5
Total Annual Miles Moved50,000 (2022)
View Full Review
4
Pack It Up Movers Logo

Pack It Up Movers

Exceptional9.17/10
based on 1,100+ data points

Turlock, CA

About Pack It Up Movers

Since 2015, Pack It Up Movers has been serving communities from Modesto and Merced to all of Northern California. This moving...

Services

  • Residential Moves
  • Commercial & Office Moves
  • Local Movers

Interstate Moving License

Circle X Mark
Not Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/10/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3054559 / -

Not Authorized

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans3
Registered Drivers4
Total Annual Miles Moved140,017 (2019)
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.

Fresno vs. San Francisco Neighborhood Comparison

If you're planning a move from Fresno to San Francisco, understanding how neighborhoods translate between the two cities can ease the transition. This guide is designed to help you familiarize yourself with an unknown city by using your existing city as a baseline. Through a direct comparison of local neighborhoods between Fresno, CA & San Francisco, CA , we aim to match you with a new neighborhood that feels like home.

FresnoSan FranciscoHow They're Similar
Tower DistrictThe MissionVibrant, cultural hub
The BluffsPacific HeightsUpscale, panoramic views
Woodward ParkPresidioExpansive parks, family-friendly
Fig GardenNoe ValleyQuiet, family-oriented community
SunnysideInner SunsetLaid back, residential feel
Old Fig GardenRichmond DistrictCharming, historic residences
Van Ness ExtensionMarina DistrictPicturesque, near-waterfront living
Huntington BoulevardAlamo SquareHistoric homes, famous sights
Copper River RanchSea CliffExclusive, luxury properties
North Growth AreaDogpatchGrowing, modern neighborhood

When moving from Fresno’s Tower District, known for its vibrant arts scene and historic architecture, you'll find a similar cultural vibe in San Francisco's Mission District, where murals and Latino heritage blend with trendy eateries and nightspots. If you’re leaving the panoramic views and upscale homes of The Bluffs, Pacific Heights offers an equally prestigious atmosphere with its grand mansions and sweeping views of the Bay. Nature lovers accustomed to the outdoor spaces of Woodward Park might feel at home in the Presidio, San Francisco's own urban park, offering miles of trails, scenic overlooks, and cultural sites. For those from family-friendly Fig Garden, Noe Valley’s quiet streets, strong community feel, and proximity to quality schools can provide a seamless transition. Meanwhile, Inner Sunset, with its laid-back charm and local businesses, mirrors the comfort of Sunnyside's suburban feel amidst city life.

Things To Do background image

Things to Do in San Francisco

  • Explore Alcatraz Island
  • Stroll through Golden Gate Park
  • Walk across the Golden Gate Bridge
  • Enjoy seafood at Fisherman's Wharf
  • Visit the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art
  • Ride a cable car
  • Shop at Ferry Building Marketplace

Ready to start your move?

Pros and Cons of Moving from Fresno to San Francisco

Deciding between Fresno, CA, and San Francisco, CA, requires an honest reflection on what each city has to offer and what it lacks. This comparison aims to highlight the pros and cons of moving from Fresno to San Francisco , providing you with a clearer perspective on this significant change.

CONs
PROs
Fresno, CA iconFresno, CA
  • Higher summer heat
  • Less cultural events
  • Fewer job opportunities
  • Smaller tech community
  • Lower housing costs
San Francisco, CA iconSan Francisco, CA
  • Cooler climate
  • Vibrant arts scene
  • More career options
  • Tech hub
  • Expensive real estate
San Francisco, CA iconSan Francisco, CA
  • High cost of living
  • Compact living spaces
  • Fast-paced environment
  • More impersonal
  • Parking challenges
Fresno, CA iconFresno, CA
  • Affordable living
  • Spacious housing
  • Laid-back lifestyle
  • Close-knit community
  • Easy parking

Moving from Fresno to San Francisco introduces you to a world where cultural vibrancy is the norm, not the exception. San Francisco's neighborhoods, like Mission District and North Beach, are bursting with world-renowned museums, trendy restaurants like Tartine Bakery, and iconic sights like the Golden Gate Bridge. Though the shift to San Francisco's urban density means trading spacious Fresno homes for smaller, pricier apartments, it also offers unparalleled career opportunities, especially in the tech sector. Yes, the cost of living is higher, and parking can be a headache, but for many, these are small concessions for the rich cultural tapestry and professional growth San Francisco provides.

Fresno vs. San Francisco Food Guide

Understanding the local cuisine is a key part of immersing yourself in the culture and lifestyle of a new city. This guide offers a comparison of the local cuisine between Fresno & San Francisco to help you appreciate what culinary delights await in your new home.

Fresno
San Francisco
Most iconic local food item
Tri-tip steak
Sourdough bread
Most popular meat dish
Grilled chicken
Cioppino
Most popular street food item
Tacos
Mission Burrito
Most popular vegan food
Veggie burrito
Jackfruit tacos
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
  • The Lime Lite
  • Dog House Grill
  • Cracked Pepper Bistro
  • Swan Oyster Depot
  • Tadich Grill
  • Restaurant Gary Danko
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness
💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
Abundance of Food Trucks
🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
Foodie Scene
🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly
🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱
🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

When moving to San Francisco, your taste buds are in for a delight with its diverse and influential food scene. The iconic sourdough bread, found in bakeries throughout the city, particularly in the historic Fisherman's Wharf, is a must-try. For meat lovers, the city's traditional fish stew, Cioppino, showcases San Francisco's seafood excellence and can be enjoyed in the many Italian restaurants in North Beach. The Mission District is renowned for its street food scene, with the Mission Burrito standing out as a local favorite. Vegans will find San Francisco extremely accommodating, with plenty of innovative options like jackfruit tacos readily available in eateries around the city. San Francisco's commitment to food excellence is evident in its high foodie scene score, and its vibrant food truck culture provides an adventurous dining experience at every corner.

Fresno vs. San Francisco Restaurant Comparison

Making a move can be daunting, but finding new favorite eateries can help make a new city feel like home. This comparison between top Fresno restaurants and their San Francisco equivalents is designed to ease the transition for someone moving from Fresno to San Francisco by introducing them to new dining spots . Whether you're craving high-end dining, casual eats, or iconic dishes, this guide will help you discover your next go-to restaurant.

FresnoSan FranciscoWhat You'll Love
The Annex KitchenDelfinaBoth offer rustic Italian dishes with a focus on local ingredients.
Fleming's Prime Steakhouse & Wine BarHarris' SteakhouseRenowned for high-quality steaks and an extensive wine list.
Cracked Pepper BistroFrancesBoth have a cozy setting with innovative, seasonal Californian cuisine.
Taqueria Don PepeLa TaqueriaOffers authentic Mexican dishes and is famous for their burritos.
Roger Rocka's Dinner TheaterBeach Blanket BabylonA unique blend of dining with entertainment; iconic shows.
Max's Bistro & BarZuni CaféBoth are known for a diverse, seasonal menu in a casual yet sophisticated setting.
Dog House GrillGott's RoadsideBoth offer high-quality, casual American eats in a laid-back atmosphere.
Mediterranean Grill & CafeLa MediterraneeSimilar in offering a variety of Mediterranean dishes with fresh ingredients.
Yosemite RanchHouse of Prime RibComparable for their focus on meat-centered dishes and cozy ambiance.
Lucy's Lair Fine Ethiopian CuisineRadio Africa & KitchenBoth restaurants provide a unique African dining experience with authentic flavors.

When in San Francisco, you won't miss Fresno's diverse culinary scene thanks to establishments like Delfina, which echoes The Annex Kitchen's dedication to rustic Italian cuisine using local ingredients. Meanwhile, meat lovers who patronized Fresno's Yosemite Ranch will find solace in the House of Prime Rib's similar focus on quality meats and a warm, inviting atmosphere. For a more casual yet iconic eating experience akin to Fresno's Dog House Grill, Gott's Roadside in San Francisco serves up American classics in an equally relaxed setting but with the unique addition of a San Francisco twist. Each San Francisco counterpart not only matches the essence of Fresno's favorite restaurants but also brings its own local flair, ensuring that your culinary exploration remains exciting.

CTA Banner background image

Ready to start your move?

Fresno vs. San Francisco Real Estate & Living Facts

When considering a move, diving deep into the real estate aspects of your destination is crucial. This comparison will illuminate the differences and similarities between Fresno and San Francisco , guiding you to make an informed decision about your new home.

Fresno
San Francisco
Typical Architecture Style
Ranch
Victorian and Modern
Walkability
👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability
🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle
🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing
Spacious backyards, close to schools
Access to public transport, rooftop decks

Moving from Fresno to San Francisco, you'll notice a stark contrast not just in the median home prices and rent but in the living experience itself. In Fresno, the housing is more affordable, with properties often boasting spacious backyards ideal for families. On the other hand, San Francisco's iconic Victorian and modern architecture comes with a hefty price tag, but it places you in the heart of an urban lifestyle unparalleled anywhere else. The city's excellent walkability and bikeability mean that amenities, work, and entertainment are likely just a stroll away. This is complemented by listings that frequently highlight unique features like access to public transport and rooftop decks, indicating a more communal and dense living environment.

Pet-friendly neighborhoods background image

Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in San Francisco, CA

1. Pacific Heights : You'll love Pacific Heights for its abundance of parks and scenic walking trails perfect for you and your furry friend.

2. Noe Valley : Enjoy Noe Valley's welcoming community vibe and the pet-friendly stores and cafes that cater to every pet need.

3. The Mission District : Known for its vibrant and lively atmosphere, The Mission District offers numerous dog parks and pet-friendly patios for you and your pet to explore.

Fresno vs. San Francisco Weather Considerations

Understanding how weather varies is crucial when moving from one location to another. This comparison is designed to help you grasp the weather differences you will experience when relocating from Fresno, CA to San Francisco, CA, preparing you effectively for what lies ahead.

Fresno
San Francisco
Days of Sunshine per Year
☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. Annual Humidity
💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦
💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦
Avg. UV Index
🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Natural Disasters
Wildfires, Earthquakes
Earthquakes, Fog
Air Quality
Moderate
Good
Summer icon

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

97°F / 66°F
70°F / 55°F
Winter icon

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

55°F / 38°F
57°F / 46°F


Rainfall icon

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

11.5"
23.65"
Snowfall icon

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

0"
0"


When moving from Fresno to San Francisco, you'll notice several key differences in the weather. San Francisco generally enjoys cooler summers and milder winters compared to Fresno, which experiences more extreme temperatures during these seasons. The higher humidity in San Francisco can make the air feel cooler than the actual temperature suggests. Also, with San Francisco's closer proximity to the ocean, you can expect more fog and a significant difference in air quality. While Fresno battles with moderate air quality due to agriculture and dust, San Francisco typically boasts cleaner air due to coastal breezes. Understanding these differences will help you adapt more comfortably to your new environment.

Ready to start your move?

Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Fresno to San Francisco

Moving from one city to another involves getting accustomed to a new cost of living. It's essential to understand how the financial aspects of Fresno compare with those of San Francisco, especially if you're planning a move. This comparison will help you gauge the differences in economic conditions, including income, taxes, and housing costs, so you can better prepare for your relocation.

Fresno
San Francisco
Avg. Household Income
$61,250
$121,826
Cost of Living Index
117.3
164
State Income Tax
9.3
9.3
Avg. Property Tax
0.77
0.75
Avg. Sales Tax
7.25
8.5
Top 3 Industries
Agriculture, Manufacturing, Health Services
Technology, Finance, Tourism
Affluence
Moderate
High
Poverty
Visible
Moderate
Homelessness
Significant
Severe

Moving from Fresno to San Francisco involves a significant leap in the cost of living, with San Francisco's index sitting at nearly double that of Fresno's. This increase is especially notable in housing costs, which are a major component of the cost of living difference. The average household income in San Francisco is more than twice that in Fresno, suggesting a higher standard of living but also reflecting the necessity of a higher income to manage the steep costs. Both cities experience homelessness, but the visibility and severity of the issue are more pronounced in San Francisco, juxtaposing its affluent status. Understanding these differences prepares you for the economic realities of your new city and helps in budgeting for a different lifestyle.

Fresno vs. San Francisco Political & Religious Comparison

Moving from Fresno to San Francisco represents a significant transition, not just in geography but in the cultural and ideological environment you'll immerse yourself in. This brief overview is designed to give you a comparison of the politics and religious leanings between Fresno & San Francisco , offering insights into what you can expect from the communities in both cities.

Fresno
San Francisco
Political Make-up
Moderately conservative
Very liberal
Local Politics
Mixed, with a balance of Republican and Democratic representation
Strongly Democratic with progressive policies
Religion
More diverse, with significant Christian and Catholic communities Example Church Fresno
High diversity with a less pronounced religious presence; more secular Example Organization SF

When moving from Fresno to San Francisco, you'll likely notice the stark contrast in political and religious climates. While Fresno presents a more moderate stance politically, often balancing between conservative and liberal views, San Francisco is renowned for its progressive and liberal ideologies. This shift extends into local politics where San Francisco's policies often lead with progressive ideals, quite different from the mixed representation seen in Fresno. On the religious front, Fresno offers a more pronounced religious community with diverse denominations, while San Francisco, although diverse, leans towards a more secular lifestyle with religion playing a less central role in its cultural makeup.

Fresno vs. San Francisco Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

Moving from Fresno to San Francisco? This comparison is designed to help you better understand the daily commute and traffic patterns, shedding light on the driving and transit differences between Fresno & San Francisco.

Fresno
San Francisco
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)
22
34
Traffic Congestion
4 out of 10
7 out of 10
Availability of Public Transit
3 out of 10
9 out of 10
Can you get by without a car?
Challenging
Yes

In Fresno, your average commute time might be shorter, but the limited public transit options could mean you're more reliant on a car. Whereas in San Francisco, although you might face longer commutes and higher traffic congestion scores, the city's robust public transit system, including MUNI, BART, and ferries, makes it entirely feasible to live without a car. This shift can significantly influence your daily routine, from planning for longer travel times to potentially enjoying a walk or bike ride through some of San Francisco's scenic routes. Understanding these differences can help in adjusting to a new urban lifestyle where transportation options are vast but may require more patience and planning.

CTA Banner background image
Connect with one of our Certified Moving Partners.
Best Fresno to San Francisco Movers Featured Image