Best Los Angeles to San Jose Movers + Moving Guide

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If you're moving from Los Angeles to San Jose and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 341 mile long distance California move go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 195 Los Angeles to San Jose 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 Fastruck Moving Company), how much the move costs (approximately $1,500 - $5,000 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Los Angeles compared to San Jose. 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.

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Best Los Angeles to San Jose Moving Companies

Phone (800) 787-5428

How Much Does it Cost to Move from Los Angeles to San Jose?

Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 341 miles from Los Angeles, CA to San Jose, CA will cost on average $2,071 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Los Angeles to San Jose move is roughly $4,953. 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$1,396300 ft³$4.65
1 Bedroom$2,071450 ft³$4.60
2 Bedrooms$3,415750 ft³$4.55
3 Bedrooms$4,9531100 ft³$4.50
4 Bedrooms$7,1241600 ft³$4.45
5+ Bedrooms$7,9251800 ft³$4.40
*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.
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from San Jose to Los Angeles guide.

Compare the 5 Best Los Angeles to San Jose Movers

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

Fastruck Moving Company Logo

Fastruck Moving Company

Exceptional9.78/10
based on 2,882+ data points

11818 Riverside Dr

Valley Village, CA, 91607

About Fastruck Moving Company

Fastruck Moving Company was established in 2009 by three brothers – Al, Tim, and Ross, all of whom are enthusiastic and...

Services

  • Local residential moves
  • Office and commercial moves
  • Piano moving service

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3056069 / -

Not Authorized

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans4
Registered Drivers4
Total Annual Miles Moved47,516 (2022)
View Full Review
1
Sweet Lemon Moving Services Logo

Sweet Lemon Moving Services

Exceptional9.77/10
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
2
Roadway Moving - LA Moving Company Logo

Roadway Moving - LA Moving Company

Exceptional9.74/10
based on 2,624+ data points

18317 Napa St

Northridge, CA, 91325

About Roadway Moving - LA Moving Company

Roadway Moving, in operation since 2008, is a Los Angeles-based moving company that offers services across the United States. They specialize...

Services

  • Local Moves in NYC
  • Long-Distance Moving
  • Commercial Moving
View Full Review
3
The Small Delivery Co. Logo

The Small Delivery Co.

Exceptional9.69/10
based on 2,570+ data points

3520 Overland Ave

Los Angeles, CA, 90034

About The Small Delivery Co.

Moving is a difficult task, even if you're just moving from a studio apartment. Unfortunately, some moving companies have a minimum...

Services

  • Small move assistance (single items, one room of furniture, studio apartments, up to a one bedroom apartment)
  • Furniture delivery/specialty items/donation drop off
  • Loading/unloading a moving truck or storage container

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2690366 / -

Not Authorized

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans1
Registered Drivers1
Total Annual Miles Moved-
View Full Review
4
Pure Moving Company Logo

Pure Moving Company

Exceptional9.65/10
based on 6,753+ data points

401 Terry A Francois Blvd # 110

San Francisco, CA, 94158

About Pure Moving Company

With four locations in two states, Pure Moving Company has been offering professional and full-service moves in San Francisco since 2000....

Services

  • Residential Moving
  • Commercial Moving
  • Long Distance Moving
View Full Review
5
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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. San Jose Neighborhood Comparison

When moving from one city to another, it can be helpful to use your current locale as a benchmark. This guide will compare the local neighborhoods between Los Angeles, CA & San Jose, CA to help you easily transition from the familiar to the unknown.

Los AngelesSan JoseHow They're Similar
Silver LakeWillow GlenArtsy community, eclectic vibe
Santa MonicaSantana RowVibrant shopping, dining scene
HollywoodDowntown San JoseEntertainment hub, nightlife
VeniceAlum RockDiverse, creative atmosphere
Beverly HillsRose GardenUpscale homes, well-manicured streets
Downtown LAJapantownTrendy, urban vibe
Echo ParkNorthsideBohemian, community-focused
WestwoodBurbankCollege-town energy, cultural sights
Bel-AirSilver CreekExclusive, luxurious living
BrentwoodEvergreenSuburban, family-friendly

In Silver Lake, you might enjoy the artistic flair and bohemian feel thanks to its eclectic stores and nearby cafes—similarly, Willow Glen in San Jose offers a charming mix of vintage shops and a casual neighborhood ambiance. If you’re fond of Santa Monica’s dynamic shopping and dining scene, Santana Row in San Jose offers a lively urban environment with upscale boutiques and trendy dining spots. Alternatively, if the glitz of Hollywood keeps you entertained, Downtown San Jose offers a comparable energy with its buzzing nightlife and cultural hotspots like the Tech Museum of Innovation. For those who appreciate the upscale lifestyle of Beverly Hills, the Rose Garden neighborhood with its elegantly maintained streets and historical architecture keeps a similar classy vibe, with the nearby Municipal Rose Garden offering serene beauty for leisurely strolls.

Things To Do background image

Things to Do in San Jose

  • Explore The Tech Interactive museum
  • Stroll through Japanese Friendship Garden
  • Watch a San Jose Sharks hockey game
  • Enjoy shopping and dining at Santana Row
  • Hike in Coyote Valley Open Space Preserve
  • Visit Rosicrucian Egyptian Museum
  • Sample wines at Santa Clara Valley wineries

Ready to start your move?

Pros and Cons of Moving from Los Angeles to San Jose

Moving from Los Angeles, CA to San Jose, CA, involves weighing various factors to make an informed decision. This comparison elucidates the balance between the challenges and benefits of such a relocation, offering an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of moving from Los Angeles to San Jose .

CONs
PROs
Los Angeles, CA iconLos Angeles, CA
  • Higher living costs
  • Worse traffic
  • Smog levels
  • Fewer tech jobs
San Jose, CA iconSan Jose, CA
  • Lower housing costs
  • Less congestion
  • Better air quality
  • More tech opportunities
San Jose, CA iconSan Jose, CA
  • Quieter nightlife
  • No direct beach access
  • Less diversity in cuisine
  • More tech-centric culture
Los Angeles, CA iconLos Angeles, CA
  • Vibrant nightlife
  • Beach access
  • Diverse food scene
  • Rich culture

The move from Los Angeles to San Jose carries significant lifestyle changes. While Los Angeles is known for its vibrant nightlife, with places like The Viper Room and iconic beaches like Santa Monica, San Jose offers a calmer environment with a striking focus on technological development and innovation. The transition might mean leaving behind the rich, diverse food scenes of LA, but San Jose compensates with its own culinary gems, such as the unique dishes at San Pedro Square Market. Moreover, while you might miss LA's eclectic culture, San Jose's booming tech scene at locales like Silicon Valley provides ample professional opportunities. This balance between the lifestyle and career prospects is vital in making this significant move.

Los Angeles vs. San Jose Food Guide

Comparing the local cuisine between Los Angeles & San Jose reveals how food is a fundamental aspect of local culture and day-to-day living. This comparison aims to provide you with a deeper understanding of the culinary scene in these areas, enhancing your knowledge of what to expect in terms of dining options when you relocate.

Los Angeles
San Jose
Most iconic local food item
Tacos
Pho
Most popular meat dish
Korean BBQ
Bánh mì
Most popular street food item
Street Tacos
Vietnamese Spring Rolls
Most popular vegan food
Acai Bowl
Vegetable Pho
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
  • Adega
  • Original Joe's
  • Falafel's Drive-In
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness
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Abundance of Food Trucks
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Foodie Scene
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Vegan Friendly
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Los Angeles, renowned for its diverse culinary scene, offers everything from street tacos available in neighborhoods like Echo Park to high-end dining experiences at places like n/naka in Palms. The city's health-conscious lifestyle is reflected in its numerous vegan options and health-oriented dishes such as the Acai Bowl. Moving to San Jose, you'll discover a rich Vietnamese influence, with pho and bánh mì being staple foods among the local population. San Jose's food scene might surprise you with its hidden gems like Adega, a Michelin-starred restaurant offering exquisite Portuguese cuisine. This shift in culinary offerings represents a significant aspect of the local culture you'll be embracing.

Los Angeles vs. San Jose Restaurant Comparison

Finding comfort in a new city often starts with discovering great places to eat. This restaurant comparison chart between Los Angeles and San Jose is designed to help you find your next favorite dining spots by likening them to the ones you loved back home. Whether you're in search of high-end dining, a casual eatery, or iconic dishes, this guide has got you covered.

Los AngelesSan JoseWhat You'll Love
N/NakaLe PapillonBoth provide an exquisite fine dining experience with tasting menus.
BestiaOrchard City KitchenBoth are known for their innovative and robust flavors.
Philippe The OriginalHenry's Hi-LifeBoth offer a historical dining experience with iconic dishes.
Howlin' Ray'sFirehouse No.1 GastropubSimilar vibe in serving up bold and spicy flavors.
Guerrilla TacosZona RosaBoth are celebrated for their creative take on tacos and Mexican cuisine.
RepubliqueBellano CoffeeOffering a cozy atmosphere with exceptional baked goods and coffee.
ProvidenceAdegaBoth are high-end eateries offering a sophisticated dining experience with seafood.
Roscoe's House of Chicken and WafflesThe Breakfast ClubKnown for comfort food, they both make a perfect spot for breakfast or brunch.
Din Tai FungDin Tai FungWith a location in San Jose, you won’t miss the original's signature soup dumplings.
Pizzeria MozzaBibo's NY PizzaBoth are cherished for their impeccable crusts and authentic flavors.

When you're craving something that reminds you of home, but are looking to discover the local flavors of San Jose, these restaurant comparisons come in handy. For instance, if N/Naka in Los Angeles was your go-to for special occasions, Le Papillon in San Jose could very well become your new favorite, offering a similarly refined dining experience. Fans of the legendary Philippe The Original's French Dip in Los Angeles might find a comforting alternative in Henry's Hi-Life's hearty meats. And for those who swear by Din Tai Fung's soup dumplings, the good news is there's no need for a close alternative, as Din Tai Fung itself graces San Jose with its presence, ensuring you won't miss out on those familiar, comforting flavors even in your new city. Each of these establishments not only offers something deliciously comparable to what you loved in Los Angeles but also brings a unique touch of San Jose's vibrant food scene to your table.

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Ready to start your move?

Los Angeles vs. San Jose Real Estate & Living Facts

When planning a move, comparing Los Angeles and San Jose in terms of housing is crucial to make an informed decision. This includes aspects like cost, architecture, and lifestyle. Understanding these differences can significantly impact your choice and overall moving experience.

Los Angeles
San Jose
Typical Architecture Style
Spanish Colonial, Modern
Modern, Craftsman
Walkability
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Bikeability
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Urban Lifestyle
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Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing
Pool, Outdoor Space
Energy Efficiency, Proximity to Tech Hubs

The housing market distinctly differs between Los Angeles and San Jose, both in terms of cost and lifestyle. Los Angeles, known for its Spanish Colonial and modern architecture, tends to be more affordable in terms of median home prices compared to San Jose, where the tech industry significantly influences real estate prices. However, San Jose offers a slight edge in bikeability and proximity to Silicon Valley's tech hubs, making it an ideal spot for professionals in the tech sector. Moreover, listings in San Jose frequently highlight energy efficiency and proximity to work, reflecting the city's environmentally conscious and tech-centric living environment.

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Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in San Jose, CA

1. Willow Glen : You'll love the tree-lined streets and abundance of pet-friendly parks and amenities that make outdoor exploration with your furry friend convenient and enjoyable.

2. Japantown : This neighborhood's welcoming community vibe and nearby parks provide you and your pet plenty of space to enjoy leisurely strolls and social interactions.

3. Rose Garden : With its expansive green spaces and walkable layout, this area offers numerous dog-friendly cafes and shops, making it perfect for pet-owners like you.

Los Angeles vs. San Jose Weather Considerations

When relocating, understanding how the weather will shift from your current city to the next is crucial for a comfortable transition. This comparison of weather aspects between Los Angeles and San Jose will guide you in preparing for your move, highlighting differences in climate and environmental factors you might experience.

Los Angeles
San Jose
Days of Sunshine per Year
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Avg. Annual Humidity
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Avg. UV Index
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Natural Disasters
Earthquakes, Wildfires
Earthquakes, Flooding
Air Quality
Moderate
Good
Summer icon

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

85°F / 64°F
82°F / 57°F
Winter icon

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

68°F / 48°F
60°F / 42°F


Rainfall icon

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

15"
15.5"
Snowfall icon

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

0"
0"


When comparing Los Angeles to San Jose, you'll notice both cities experience mild winters and warm summers, though San Jose tends to have cooler nights year-round. Despite Los Angeles having more days of sunshine, San Jose offers better air quality, making it appealing for those sensitive to air pollution. Both cities share a very low annual snowfall but differ in their primary natural disaster risks, with San Jose having a higher risk of flooding compared to Los Angeles' wildfires. Understanding these subtleties can help you better prepare for life in San Jose.

Ready to start your move?

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

When planning a move from one city to another, understanding the financial implications is crucial. Moving from Los Angeles to San Jose involves significant changes in cost of living, taxes, and employment opportunities . This comparison aims to highlight the differences in economic factors you should consider.

Los Angeles
San Jose
Avg. Household Income
$70,372
$126,377
Cost of Living Index
136.4
156.1
State Income Tax
9.3
9.3
Avg. Property Tax
0.793
0.793
Avg. Sales Tax
9.5
9.25
Top 3 Industries
Entertainment, Manufacturing, Tourism
Technology, Education, Healthcare
Affluence
Moderate
High
Poverty
High
Lower
Homelessness
Severe
Moderate

Moving from Los Angeles to San Jose, you'll find that the average household income is significantly higher in San Jose, reflecting its status as a global technology hub. Despite the higher cost of living index in San Jose, which includes housing, the increased income levels can help mitigate these expenses to some extent. Both cities share the same state income tax rate, but sales tax is slightly lower in San Jose. The differing top industries between the two cities reflect distinct job markets and culture, with San Jose being a powerhouse in technology. Despite the higher living costs, the economic environment in San Jose might offer a more affluent lifestyle but also comes with its own challenges, such as a competitive housing market.

Los Angeles vs. San Jose Political & Religious Comparison

When planning your move from Los Angeles to San Jose, it's insightful to get a quick snapshot of the differences you'll find in the community you're leaving and the one you're about to join. This comparison of the politics between Los Angeles & San Jose will provide a glimpse into the political and religious makeup of the residents, helping you understand the local cultures and communities better.

Los Angeles
San Jose
Political Make-up
Liberal
Liberal
Local Politics
Diverse representation in city government
High tech industry influence on local policies
Religion
Multicultural religious communities including Christianity, Buddhism, Hinduism, Islam
Strong tech community with diverse religious backgrounds; notable Buddhist and Hindu communities

In moving from Los Angeles to San Jose, you'll find that both cities share a liberal political leaning. However, the local political scene in San Jose is notably influenced by the high-tech industry, which plays a significant role in shaping local policies and economic developments. This could mean a number of things for your daily life, from the kinds of community events and initiatives to the presence of innovative urban solutions and community services. On the religious front, like Los Angeles, San Jose boasts a rich mosaic of faith communities, including vibrant Buddhist and Hindu populations which mirror the diverse cultural fabric of Silicon Valley. This diversity is reflective of the broad array of cultural and spiritual establishments present in both cities, from temples and mosques to churches and synagogues.

Los Angeles vs. San Jose Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

Moving from Los Angeles, CA to San Jose, CA? A key factor in your transition will be understanding the differences in the daily commute and traffic is like between Los Angeles & San Jose. This comparison helps you better plan your travel and manage expectations around transportation in your new city.

Los Angeles
San Jose
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)
30
25
Traffic Congestion
9 out of 10
7 out of 10
Availability of Public Transit
6 out of 10
7 out of 10
Can you get by without car?
Challenging
Easier

If you're considering the move from Los Angeles to San Jose, prepare for a slightly smoother commute in your new home. Though both cities experience traffic, San Jose generally sees less congestion compared to the intense traffic of Los Angeles. Public transit options are more readily available and efficient in San Jose, making it somewhat easier to navigate without a car. Whereas Los Angeles, with its sprawling layout, often makes dependence on a car almost unavoidable, despite its public transit efforts. Understanding these differences can significantly impact your daily life and help you adjust more quickly to your new environment.

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