Best Oakland to San Francisco Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from Oakland to San Francisco and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 13 mile long distance California move go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 148 Oakland 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 $1,000 - $4,500 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Oakland 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 Oakland to San Francisco Moving Companies
| Rank | Company | Score  | Affordability Index |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Sweet Lemon Moving Services | 9.77 | 9.67 |
| 2 | Quantum Moving | 9.71 | 9.78 |
| 3 | OCD Moving Services LLC | 9.66 | 9.47 |
| 4 | Pure Moving Company | 9.65 | 9.41 |
| 5 | Hauling Moses Moving Inc. | 9.65 | 9.13 |
(800) 787-5428How Much Does it Cost to Move from Oakland to San Francisco?
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 13 miles from Oakland, CA to San Francisco, CA will cost on average $1,792 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Oakland to San Francisco move is roughly $4,271. 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 Size | Moving Cost | Volume of Packed Items (ft³) | $/ft³ |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio | $1,210 | 300 ft³ | $4.03 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,792 | 450 ft³ | $3.98 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $2,950 | 750 ft³ | $3.93 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $4,271 | 1100 ft³ | $3.88 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $6,133 | 1600 ft³ | $3.83 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $6,809 | 1800 ft³ | $3.78 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from San Francisco to Oakland guide.
Compare the 5 Best Oakland 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
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
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3277021 / - Not Authorized Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 8 |
| Registered Drivers | 8 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 5,000 (2021) |
Quantum Moving
535 Main St
Martinez, CA, 94553
About Quantum Moving
Quantum Moving is located in Martinez, California, and has been serving families and businesses in the surrounding areas with local and...
Services
- Bay Area Local Moving Services
- Long Distance Moving Services Within California
- Commercial Office Moves
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3163557 / - Not Authorized Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 3 |
| Registered Drivers | 5 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 35,000 (2022) |
OCD Moving Services LLC
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
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2597230 / 911812 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 6 |
| Registered Drivers | 6 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 153,000 (2022) |
Pure Moving Company
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
Hauling Moses Moving Inc.
This listing has been claimed by Hauling Moses Moving Inc.494 27th Ave # 37
San Francisco, CA, 94121
About Hauling Moses Moving Inc.
Based in San Francisco since 2016, Hauling Moses Moving specializes in local moves for both residential and commercial clients. This moving...
Services
- Local and Long-Distance moves within entire state of California
- Full Packing Service / Packing supplies
- Piano, pool table, appliance, and furniture moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3018716 / - Not Authorized Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 1 |
| Registered Drivers | 1 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | - |
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.
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.
Oakland vs. San Francisco Neighborhood Comparison
Whether you're moving from Oakland to San Francisco or just curious about the similarities between the two, this guide is for you. By comparing local neighborhoods between Oakland, CA & San Francisco, CA , we aim to make you feel at home in no time, using your knowledge of Oakland's neighborhoods as a baseline to discover comparable areas in San Francisco.
| Oakland | San Francisco | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Rockridge | Marina District | Young, lively atmosphere with boutique shopping |
| Piedmont Avenue | Haight-Ashbury | Unique shops, historic charm |
| Montclair | Forest Hill | Quiet, residential, surrounded by nature |
| Temescal | Mission District | Trendy food scene, artsy vibe |
| Jack London Square | Embarcadero | Waterfront dining, entertainment options |
| Grand Lake | Hayes Valley | Cozy cafes, cultural attractions |
| Uptown | South of Market (SoMa) | Vibrant nightlife, modern lofts |
| West Oakland | Dogpatch | Industrial chic, growing arts community |
| North Oakland | Cole Valley | Family-friendly, quiet residential streets |
| Dimond District | Bernal Heights | Community-oriented, hidden gem parks |
If you're captivated by the vibrant literary and food scene of Temescal, you'll find a kindred spirit in the Mission District, where mural-lined alleys host an endless array of cafés like Tartine Bakery and culturally rich venues such as the Mission Cultural Center for Latino Arts. Meanwhile, lovers of the quiet, leafy streets of Montclair will appreciate the tranquil and upscale ambiance of Forest Hill, with its beautifully preserved homes and easy access to natural havens like the Twin Peaks for breathtaking city views. The historic charm of Jack London Square finds its match along the San Francisco waterfront at the Embarcadero, where dining options like Hog Island Oyster Co. and attractions such as the Exploratorium invite residents for memorable experiences by the Bay.
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 Oakland to San Francisco
Moving from one city to another is a major decision that comes with its share of challenges and benefits. To help you weigh these factors, this guide will offer an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of relocating from Oakland, CA to San Francisco, CA . By comparing the cons with the pros and vice versa, we aim to provide a clearer picture of what such a move entails.
Oakland, CA- Higher crime rates
- Lower walkability
- Less dense night-life
- More affordable housing
San Francisco, CA- Better public transportation
- More walkable neighborhoods
- Vibrant night-life
- Higher living costs
San Francisco, CA- Expensive rent
- Scarce parking
- Foggy weather
- Smaller apartments
Oakland, CA- Lower living costs
- Better parking availability
- Warmer summers
- Diverse cultural scene
Moving from Oakland to San Francisco opens up a new world of possibilities, especially when it comes to entertainment and commuting options. San Francisco's public transportation system, with its extensive network of buses, streetcars, and the iconic cable cars, makes getting around the city a breeze, connecting you to popular locations such as Fisherman's Wharf, Union Square, and the Financial District. You'll find that San Francisco's neighborhoods, each with its unique character, from the bustling tech hubs in SoMa to the laid-back vibes in the Mission District, offer a vibrant night-life with an array of restaurants and bars like Foreign Cinema and Monk's Kettle. On the flip side, while Oakland offers more affordable housing options and warmer summer weather, the trade-off includes dealing with higher crime rates and less walkable neighborhoods compared to San Francisco's compact and bustling areas.
Oakland vs. San Francisco Food Guide
Understanding the pulse of a city's culinary scene is crucial when moving. Food is a vibrant part of local culture and living experiences. In this guide, we’ll embark on a comparison, specifically focusing on the comparison of the local cuisine between Oakland & San Francisco , so you can anticipate the gastronomic delights awaiting in your new locale.
- Commis
- Shakewell
- Belotti
- Tadich Grill
- Swan Oyster Depot
- Zuni Cafe
When moving from Oakland to San Francisco, you're transitioning between two robust food cultures deeply ingrained in the cities' identities. In San Francisco, neighborhoods like the Mission District are renowned for their San Francisco-style burritos, a heavy, foil-wrapped delicacy filled with an array of ingredients including rice, beans, and your choice of meat. Meanwhile, the iconic Clam Chowder served in a sourdough bowl epitomizes Fisherman's Wharf’s culinary offering, blending the city's historic seafood affection with its sourdough legacy. Iconic restaurants like Tadich Grill and Zuni Cafe not only serve as landmarks but also offer a taste of the city’s culinary heritage and innovation. Whether you’re seeking vegan options or the city’s best seafood cioppino, San Francisco's diverse culinary scene promises an energetic exploration for your palate.
Oakland vs. San Francisco Restaurant Comparison
Moving to a new city can be a culinary adventure, especially when you're relocating from Oakland to San Francisco. Food plays a critical role in making a place feel like home. This comparison of top Oakland restaurants to their San Francisco counterparts is designed to help you discover your next favorite dining spots, using your current favorites as a guide.
| Oakland | San Francisco | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Commis | Quince | Both offer exquisite fine dining experiences with Michelin stars. |
| Shakewell | Nopa | Both known for their Mediterranean influences and vibrant atmospheres. |
| Burma Superstar | Mandalay | Both offer authentic Burmese cuisine with a loyal following. |
| Pizzaiolo | Tony’s Pizza Napoletana | High quality, artisanal pizzas with a creative flair. |
| Donut Savant | Bob’s Donut & Pastry Shop | Both have a cult following for their unique donuts. |
| Homeroom | Mac’d | Both specialize in gourmet mac ‘n’ cheese with customizable options. |
| Brown Sugar Kitchen | Brenda’s French Soul Food | Soulful cooking with a touch of French influence. |
| Cholita Linda | La Taqueria | Both offer standout tacos and Latin American dishes in a casual setting. |
| Grand Lake Kitchen | Plow | Similar commitment to fresh, locally sourced American brunch favorites. |
| Mua | Foreign Cinema | Both are trendy spots that seamlessly blend dining with arts. |
Exploring the restaurant scenes in San Francisco and Oakland reveals distinct flavors, ambiances, and dining experiences that cater to a wide range of palates and preferences. Quince and Commis share a passion for fine dining, offering meticulously prepared dishes in an upscale setting, making the transition from Oakland to San Francisco seamless for lovers of high-end gastronomy. Fans of the bustling, warm atmosphere and Mediterranean fares at Shakewell will find a similar vibe at Nopa, where the dishes sing with local, organic ingredients. Meanwhile, Bob’s Donut & Pastry Shop in San Francisco brings the same level of dedication to artisanal donuts as Donut Savant in Oakland, ensuring that your sweet tooth's needs are met in your new city. Whether you crave the culinary innovation of Pizzaiolo or the soul-warming comfort of Homeroom’s mac ‘n’ cheese, San Francisco’s restaurant scene holds a mirror to Oakland’s, promising a flavorful journey in your new home.
Ready to start your move?
Oakland vs. San Francisco Real Estate & Living Facts
When contemplating a move, understanding the real estate landscape is crucial for making an informed decision. Comparing Oakland and San Francisco provides valuable insights into housing costs, architectural styles, and urban living . This comparison will help you grasp the essence of what each city has to offer, guiding your selection process to find a place that feels like home.
In comparing Oakland and San Francisco, it's clear that the latter demands a higher price tag for both buying and renting, reflective of its global allure and dense urban living. However, Oakland presents itself as an appealing alternative, with its own vibrant urban lifestyle and slightly more accessible real estate market. The architecture in both cities leans heavily towards the Victorian style, with San Francisco sprinkling in modern designs among its classic buildings. Notably, both cities score high in walkability and lifestyle, catering to those who value an urban environment with amenities within reach. San Francisco, however, edges out slightly in terms of urban lifestyle and bikeability, largely due to its compact nature and extensive cycling infrastructure.
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.
Oakland vs. San Francisco Weather Considerations
When relocating from Oakland to San Francisco, understanding the weather differences is crucial to adjust your expectations and preparations. This comparison delineates the climatic variances to anticipate, ensuring a smoother transition.
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
When moving from Oakland to San Francisco, you'll notice a slight drop in summer temperatures and a minor increase in winter temperatures in San Francisco. The number of sunny days is fairly consistent between the two, ensuring plenty of outdoor days. The higher humidity in San Francisco can make it feel cooler than Oakland, especially with the city's famous fog. Air quality and allergy triggers are similar, allowing for easier health adjustments. Noteworthy, San Francisco's slightly higher annual rainfall contributes to its denser fog and unique microclimates within the city.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Oakland to San Francisco
When planning a move from Oakland to San Francisco, it's crucial to understand the differences in cost of living and financial implications of such a move. This comparison aims to highlight the key finance-related differences between these two vibrant cities to help you make an informed decision.
While both cities have high costs of living relative to the rest of the United States, moving from Oakland to San Francisco, you'll encounter a higher average household income but also an increased cost of living index. This reflects not just in housing but also in daily expenses and taxes, despite the state income tax remaining the same. The differences in industries suggest varied job opportunities, with San Francisco being a significant hub for the tech and finance sectors. Understanding these economic landscapes will aid in navigating the financial aspects of your move.
Oakland vs. San Francisco Political & Religious Comparison
This comparison of the politics and religious makeup between Oakland & San Francisco offers a quick snapshot to help potential movers understand the communities they're considering calling home. It focuses on the prevailing political leanings, the local political atmosphere, and the religious landscape of each city.
In both Oakland and San Francisco, the political climate skews liberal with a strong Democratic presence, reflecting California's overall political leanings. However, you'll find San Francisco's local politics more vocally active in housing and homelessness issues, an urgent topic given the city's expensive cost of living and limited space. This contrasts slightly with Oakland's more broadly community-focused political concerns. On the religious front, while both cities boast diversity in beliefs with substantial communities practicing Christianity, Islam, and Buddhism, San Francisco is notable for its larger percentage of residents identifying as non-religious, reflecting a national trend towards secularism. This offers a glimpse into the cultural nuances that differentiate these neighboring cities.
Oakland vs. San Francisco Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Moving from Oakland, CA to San Francisco, CA, it's critical to understand the differences in daily commute and traffic. This comparison focuses on the traffic and transportation options between Oakland & San Francisco to better equip you for your transition.
In comparing these two vibrant cities, a few points stand out significantly. San Francisco offers a more robust public transit system rated at 9 out of 10, showcasing its efficiency and widespread coverage that can substantially ease your daily commute. This makes living in San Francisco without a car much more feasible than in Oakland. While Oakland has its charms, including slightly less traffic congestion and a somewhat shorter average commute time, the ease of getting around San Francisco without a personal vehicle sets it apart. These differences could greatly influence your decision on whether to bring or ditch your car when moving.
Additional Resources
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Popular Oakland to California Routes
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