Best San Diego to Oakland Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from San Diego to Oakland and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 491 mile long distance California move go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 145 San Diego to Oakland 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 - $5,500 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in San Diego compared to Oakland. 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 San Diego to Oakland Moving Companies
| Rank | Company | Score  | Affordability Index |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Sweet Lemon Moving Services | 9.77 | 9.67 |
| 2 | Quantum Moving | 9.71 | 9.78 |
| 3 | Little Guy Big Truck Moving | 9.70 | 9.81 |
| 4 | 1st Choice Movers | 9.63 | 9.7 |
| 5 | 24/7 Moving and Storage | 9.55 | 9.52 |
(800) 787-5428How Much Does it Cost to Move from San Diego to Oakland?
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 491 miles from San Diego, CA to Oakland, CA will cost on average $2,199 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom San Diego to Oakland move is roughly $5,265. 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 | $1,481 | 300 ft³ | $4.94 |
| 1 Bedroom | $2,199 | 450 ft³ | $4.89 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $3,627 | 750 ft³ | $4.84 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $5,265 | 1100 ft³ | $4.79 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $7,578 | 1600 ft³ | $4.74 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $8,435 | 1800 ft³ | $4.69 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Oakland to San Diego guide.
Compare the 5 Best San Diego to Oakland 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) |
Little Guy Big Truck Moving
National City, CA
About Little Guy Big Truck Moving
Little Guy Big Truck Moving is a BBB-accredited, family-owned and operated business offering local and long-distance moving services at an affordable...
Services
- Affordable fast friendly movers
- Local and long distance moving
- Fully licensed and insured
1st Choice Movers
8250 Miramar Mall
San Diego, CA, 92121
About 1st Choice Movers
With hundreds of satisfied customers, 1st Choice Movers is true to its name as a preferred local choice for moving and...
Services
- Local moving services
- Long-distance moving services
- Cross-country moving services
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2776935 / - Not Authorized Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 3 |
| Registered Drivers | 2 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 60,000 (2023) |
24/7 Moving and Storage
2622 Piantino Cir
San Diego, CA, 92108
About 24/7 Moving and Storage
This locally owned and operated moving company has been helping people in the San Diego area move since 2013. 24/7 Moving...
Services
- Local moving services
- Long distance moving services
- Full service packing/moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2707732 / - Not Authorized Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 6 |
| Registered Drivers | 6 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 50,000 (2023) |
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.
San Diego vs. Oakland Neighborhood Comparison
Moving from San Diego, CA to Oakland, CA ? Our neighborhood comparison can help you familiarize yourself with Oakland using your experience in San Diego as a reference, ensuring a smoother transition to your new community.
| San Diego | Oakland | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| La Jolla | Rockridge | Vibrant dining, upscale vibes |
| Gaslamp Quarter | Uptown | Lively nightlife, entertainment hub |
| Little Italy | Temescal | Bustling with eateries, cultural flair |
| North Park | Grand Lake | Trendy cafes, eclectic shops |
| Hillcrest | Lake Merritt | Diverse, inclusive community scene |
| Pacific Beach | Jack London Square | Waterfront, outdoor activities |
| Carmel Valley | Montclair | Family-friendly, rolling hills |
| Encinitas | Joaquin Miller Park | Natural beauty, serene vibes |
| Bankers Hill | Adams Point | Historic charm, scenic vistas |
| Ocean Beach | Alameda | Beachy feel, laid-back atmosphere |
Transitioning from La Jolla to Rockridge, you'll find familiar comforts in the vibrant dining scene and upscale shops, much like the Prospect Street stretch that locals enjoy. If you love the energetic buzz of North Park with its trendy cafes and eclectic shops, the Grand Lake area in Oakland will offer a parallel experience with places such as Lake Merritt's Saturday farmers market and the nearby diverse eateries. For those moving from the historic allure of Bankers Hill, Adams Point offers scenic vistas complemented by charming old-world architecture. In both cities, you’ll discover a world of diverse cuisines, unique shops, and beautiful parks that make each neighborhood special in its own right.
Things to Do in Oakland
Explore Chabot Space & Science Center- Stroll through Oakland Zoo
- Enjoy Lake Merritt on paddleboat
- Watch a game at Oakland Coliseum
- Visit Oakland Museum of California
- Sample at Jack London Square eateries
- Hike in Redwood Regional Park
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from San Diego to Oakland
Moving from one city to another is a significant life change that presents both challenges and opportunities. This comparison aims to give you an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of relocating from San Diego, CA to Oakland, CA . By evaluating the pros and cons, you'll be better prepared for what lies ahead in this exciting new chapter.
San Diego, CA- Higher living costs
- Less public transit options
- Milder summers
- Lower crime rate
Oakland, CA- More diverse culture
- Better public transportation
- Cooler climate
- Richer art scene
Oakland, CA- No beaches
- Quieter nightlife
- Chillier weather
- More urban
San Diego, CA- Beach access
- Vibrant nightlife
- Warm weather
- Outdoor activities
Moving from the sunny, beach-lined city of San Diego to the culturally rich and diverse Oakland offers a blend of change. In Oakland, you'll immerse yourself in a broader cultural spectrum, evident in its vibrant art scene with spaces like the Oakland Museum of California and galleries throughout the Uptown area. Despite missing San Diego's famous beaches, you gain access to unique urban experiences and public parks such as Tilden Regional Park. The cooler climate in Oakland is a welcome change for some, offering relief from San Diego's year-round warmth. Although the nightlife in Oakland might seem quieter compared to San Diego's bustling scene, it prides itself on a selection of high-quality restaurants and bars, like those found in the Jack London Square, ensuring your evenings are never dull.
San Diego vs. Oakland Food Guide
Food is a significant marker of local culture and gives a glimpse into the lifestyle of an area. As you plan your move, understanding the culinary landscape of your new home is essential. Here's a comparison of the local cuisine between San Diego & Oakland to help you better appreciate the food scene awaiting you.
- George's at the Cove
- Phil's BBQ
- Hodad's
- ShakeWell
- Homeroom
- Brown Sugar Kitchen
In San Diego, the laid-back beach life is reflected in its love for Mexican-inspired eats, with fish tacos from beachfront stands and carne asada reigning supreme. Meanwhile, Oakland's rich cultural tapestry is mirrored in its diverse food scene. From the famous oak-fired pizzas and sourdough at bustling eateries in neighborhoods like Temescal to the innovative vegan dishes found in the heart of downtown, Oakland offers a culinary adventure. Iconic restaurants such as Brown Sugar Kitchen in West Oakland serve soulful cuisine that underlines the city's diverse food culture, making the move from San Diego's surf to Oakland's urban vibe an exciting gastronomic journey.
San Diego vs. Oakland Restaurant Comparison
Finding your next go-to restaurant is crucial in making a new city feel like home. This San Diego to Oakland restaurant comparison is designed to ease your transition by highlighting comparable eateries in both cities. Whether you're in search of a high-end dining experience or a casual lunch spot, this guide will help you discover your new favorite place to dine.
| San Diego | Oakland | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Addison | Commis | Both offer an upscale dining experience with meticulously crafted menus. |
| Hodad's | TrueBurger | Both are known for their iconic, juicy burgers and casual vibe. |
| Las Cuatro Milpas | Cosecha | Both serve traditional, authentic Mexican cuisine in a cozy setting. |
| Phil's BBQ | Everett & Jones Barbeque | Both provide hearty BBQ meals, perfect for meat lovers. |
| CUCINA urbana | A16 | Both offer a modern twist on Italian classics in a chic atmosphere. |
| Juniper & Ivy | Shakewell | Both are famous for their innovative and creative approach to American cuisine. |
| Mona Lisa Italian Foods | Dopo | A similar family-owned vibe with authentic Italian dishes and a welcoming atmosphere. |
| Blue Water Seafood Market & Grill | Hog's Apothecary | Both excellent for seafood lovers, offering fresh catches and local brews. |
| Café 21 | Boot and Shoe Service | Both have a cozy, rustic charm, serving farm-to-table dishes. |
| Oscars Mexican Seafood | Cholita Linda | Both are celebrated for their fresh, flavorful fish tacos and casual dining experience. |
When you move from San Diego to Oakland, discovering places that capture the essence of your old favorites can truly make the new city feel like home. For an upscale dining experience reminiscent of San Diego's Addison, try Commis in Oakland, where the attention to detail and innovative dishes mirror the culinary excellence you’re used to. For those who relish the laid-back atmosphere and mouthwatering burgers like those at Hodad's, TrueBurger offers a similar vibe with its menu of classic, tasty burgers. And for enthusiasts of authentic, flavorful Mexican cuisine, Cosecha in Oakland serves dishes that will remind you of the homely and delicious meals at Las Cuatro Milpas. These recommended establishments in Oakland not only replicate the dining experiences from San Diego but also welcome you with the promise of discovering new favorites in your new city.
Ready to start your move?
San Diego vs. Oakland Real Estate & Living Facts
Understanding the real estate landscape is pivotal when planning a move, especially between two vibrant Californian cities like San Diego and Oakland . In this comparison, we delve into various housing aspects to equip you with the necessary insights for your transition.
When comparing San Diego and Oakland, it's evident that each city offers a unique living environment. San Diego's real estate highlights include stunning ocean views and ample outdoor spaces, reflecting its sunny, laid-back lifestyle. Meanwhile, Oakland's appeal lies in its accessibility and rich history, nestled within Victorian architecture and historic neighborhoods. Moreover, Oakland edges out San Diego slightly in walkability and bikeability, making it appealing for those who prioritize an urban lifestyle with easy access to local amenities and public transportation.
Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Oakland, CA
1. Rockridge : You’ll love the abundance of pet-friendly cafes and the scenic trails at nearby Lake Temescal for your daily walks.
2. Grand Lake : This vibrant neighborhood offers easy access to pet-welcoming parks and local markets where you can bring your furry friends.
3. Piedmont Avenue : Enjoy a welcoming community with plenty of pet-friendly establishments and beautiful tree-lined streets for leisurely strolls.
San Diego vs. Oakland Weather Considerations
Moving from one city to another means adapting to new weather conditions. This comparison aims to illustrate how the climate in San Diego contrasts with that in Oakland, preparing you for the changes in your environment. Understanding this difference highlights the importance of adjusting your lifestyle and wardrobe to suit your new home's weather patterns.
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
When transitioning from San Diego's warmer summers and minimal rainfall to Oakland, prepare for cooler temperatures and significantly more rain. Oakland experiences approximately double the annual rainfall of San Diego. Although both cities enjoy a plentiful number of sunshine days per year, Oakland's slightly higher humidity and moderate air quality compared to San Diego's good air quality might influence outdoor activities and overall comfort. Additionally, both regions share risks such as earthquakes and wildfires, emphasizing the importance of disaster preparedness in California.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from San Diego to Oakland
When planning a move from one city to another, understanding how your financial landscape may shift is critical. This comparison aims to shed light on how moving from San Diego to Oakland impacts money and finance-related aspects of your life. It helps you align your budget and financial planning with San Diego and Oakland's cost of living , taxes, and economic environment.
Moving from San Diego to Oakland, you'll notice a slight reduction in the average household income and cost of living index, despite both cities having identical state income tax rates. The slight increase in property and sales taxes in Oakland, however, underscores the importance of budgeting for living expenses. Furthermore, the difference in top industries—San Diego's economy being bolstered by military and trade versus Oakland's tech and healthcare sectors—may impact job opportunities and economic dynamics you'll experience. Understanding these variances will assist in financial planning for a smoother transition.
San Diego vs. Oakland Political & Religious Comparison
As you prepare for your move from San Diego to Oakland, it's valuable to get a quick overview of the communities you're transitioning between. This comparison will provide an at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents, helping you understand the social landscape. This is a comparison of the politics between San Diego & Oakland, giving you insight into what to expect in terms of local governance, voting tendencies, and religious communities.
When comparing San Diego and Oakland, you will notice a distinct political shift. San Diego, while leaning Democratic, has a balanced focus blending economic development with its prominent military presence. In contrast, Oakland's political landscape is steeped in progressive values, with local governance pushing strongly for social equity and environmental initiatives. The religious scene in both cities reflects diversity, but Oakland stands out for its community-oriented approach to faith and spirituality, with numerous organizations actively engaging in social issues. Understanding these nuances will help you acclimate to your new home and engage with your community more effectively.
San Diego vs. Oakland Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Moving between cities can be a transition full of surprises, especially when it comes to daily commutes. To help you better understand what the daily commute and traffic is like between San Diego & Oakland, we've compared key factors that influence driving and public transit experiences in both cities. This guide aims to prepare you for the differences and similarities you'll encounter on the roads and transit lines.
When considering a move from San Diego to Oakland, you'll find that while both cities have their own traffic and transit characteristics, there are some distinct differences. For one, the average commute time in Oakland is slightly longer, which could be attributed to the city's heavy reliance on the Bay Area Rapid Transit (BART) system. This same dependency on BART, however, means Oakland has a more robust public transit system, making it easier to live without a car compared to San Diego, where the transit options are less extensive and more centered around car travel. Understanding these dynamics will help you plan your daily commute more effectively and adapt to your new city with ease.
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