Best San Francisco to Fresno Movers + Moving Guide

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If you're moving from San Francisco to Fresno and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 192 mile long distance California move go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 116 San Francisco to Fresno 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 San Francisco compared to Fresno. 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 San Francisco to Fresno Moving Companies

Phone (800) 787-5428

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

Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 192 miles from San Francisco, CA to Fresno, CA will cost on average $1,944 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom San Francisco to Fresno move is roughly $4,643. 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$1,311300 ft³$4.37
1 Bedroom$1,944450 ft³$4.32
2 Bedrooms$3,203750 ft³$4.27
3 Bedrooms$4,6431100 ft³$4.22
4 Bedrooms$6,6741600 ft³$4.17
5+ Bedrooms$7,4181800 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.
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Fresno to San Francisco guide.

Compare the 5 Best San Francisco to Fresno 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

Exceptional9.77/10
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
1
OCD Moving Services LLC Logo

OCD Moving Services LLC

Exceptional9.66/10
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
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
3
Strong Oak Moving Logo

Strong Oak Moving

Exceptional9.27/10
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
4
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
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.

San Francisco vs. Fresno Neighborhood Comparison

Moving to a new city comes with its challenges, and finding a neighborhood that feels like home is paramount. To ease this transition, we're comparing popular San Francisco, CA neighborhoods with those in Fresno, CA. By doing a comparison of the local neighborhoods between San Francisco, CA & Fresno, CA, you can find a similar community vibe, amenities, and lifestyle to what you're accustomed to, making your move smoother and more exciting.

San FranciscoFresnoHow They're Similar
Marina DistrictWoodward ParkOutdoor activities, upscale shopping
Hayes ValleyTower DistrictArtsy, vibrant nightlife
Mission DistrictTower District againCultural diversity, unique eateries
Nob HillOld Fig GardenHistoric homes, suburban feel
Pacific HeightsVan Ness ExtensionAffluent, spacious homes
SOMA (South of Market)Downtown FresnoUrban living, art scene
Haight-AshburyTower District once moreBohemian vibes, quirky shops
Russian HillHuntington BoulevardHistoric charm, scenic views
CastroTower District yet againLGBTQ+ friendly, lively
North BeachFresno High RoedingEclectic, community focused

For those drawn to the artistic vibrancy and historic architecture of San Francisco's Hayes Valley and Mission District, Fresno's Tower District will likely resonate with you. This neighborhood thrums with a similar artsy pulse, offering an array of live music venues, unique eateries like La Boulangerie for a taste of French cuisine, and the iconic Tower Theatre for performing arts. On the other hand, if the upscale, relaxed vibe of the Marina District is more your style with its blend of outdoor activities and high-end shopping, you’ll enjoy exploring Woodward Park in Fresno. Here, the Woodward Park area not only offers expansive green spaces and recreational options but also proximity to affluent shopping areas reminiscent of those in the Marina. Finding comfort in a new city, amidst familiar neighborhood dynamics, can significantly enrich your experience in your new home.

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Things to Do in Fresno

  • Explore Fresno Chaffee Zoo
  • Visit Shinzen Japanese Garden
  • Hike in Yosemite National Park
  • Taste wines at Madera Wine Trail
  • Shop at River Park Shopping Center
  • Enjoy Arte Americas cultural exhibits
  • Play at Island Waterpark

Ready to start your move?

Pros and Cons of Moving from San Francisco to Fresno

Moving from one city to another is never easy, but understanding both the good and the bad aspects can help. This comparison aims to offer an honest reflection of the advantages and disadvantages of relocating from San Francisco, CA to Fresno, CA , providing a clearer picture of what awaits on both ends of the move.

CONs
PROs
San Francisco, CA iconSan Francisco, CA
  • High living costs
  • Dense traffic
  • Foggy weather
  • Small living spaces
Fresno, CA iconFresno, CA
  • More affordable
  • Less congestion
  • Sunnier days
  • Larger homes
Fresno, CA iconFresno, CA
  • Quieter nightlife
  • Fewer landmarks
  • Less tech jobs
  • Smaller cultural scene
San Francisco, CA iconSan Francisco, CA
  • Vibrant nightlife
  • Iconic landmarks
  • Tech job hub
  • Cultural diversity

While the move from San Francisco to Fresno presents a trade-off between the vibrant urban life and a more relaxed, affordable way of living, it does not mean one is leaving behind all forms of culture or activity. Fresno offers unique attractions such as Fresno Chaffee Zoo, the serene Shinzen Japanese Garden, and the bustling River Park Shopping Area for retail therapy. The transition might seem daunting, but the opportunity to have a larger living space in a sunnier climate, coupled with the burgeoning restaurant scene and local parks like Woodward Park, represents a significant quality of life improvement for many. The adjustment may take time, but the move could very well be the refreshing change you've been seeking.

San Francisco vs. Fresno Food Guide

When considering a move, the local food scene is a vital aspect of the cultural fabric of your new home. Understanding what culinary delights await can add to the excitement of relocating. In this guide, we'll provide a detailed comparison of the local cuisine between San Francisco & Fresno , helping you gauge the gastronomic landscape you're moving into.

San Francisco
Fresno
Most iconic local food item
Sourdough Bread
Grilled Tri-tip
Most popular meat dish
Cioppino
BBQ Chicken
Most popular street food item
Mission Burrito
Tacos
Most popular vegan food
Avocado Toast
Vegan Bowl
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
  • The Slanted Door
  • Zuni Café
  • Tartine Bakery
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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In San Francisco, you'll find a vibrant foodie scene with a high concentration of food trucks offering everything from gourmet options to international cuisines, highlighting the city's diverse cultural makeup. Neighborhoods like the Mission District are famed for their street food, especially the Mission Burrito, which has gained legendary status. On the other hand, Fresno's culinary landscape is strongly influenced by its agricultural surroundings, offering fresher, farm-to-table dining options. Highlights include the grilled tri-tip, a local favorite, and an abundance of tacos from various regions of Mexico. Eateries such as The Majestic Sierra and Pismo's Coastal Grill offer a taste of Fresno's rich culinary diversity, further blending traditional flavors with modern dishes.

San Francisco vs. Fresno Restaurant Comparison

Finding comfort in a new city often starts with discovering your go-to dining spots. This restaurant comparison aims to ease the transition from San Francisco to Fresno by guiding you towards familiar flavors and dining experiences in your new hometown. Let this serve as your culinary compass, linking you to new favorite eateries that resonate with your San Francisco tastes.

San FranciscoFresnoWhat You'll Love
Gary DankoThe Lime LiteOffers a sophisticated dining experience with a focus on seasonal, local ingredients.
Swan Oyster DepotPismo's Coastal GrillCelebrated for fresh seafood and a casual yet refined atmosphere.
Tartine BakeryLa BoulangerieA beloved spot for freshly baked goods and a similar commitment to quality.
Mission Chinese FoodThe Annex KitchenInnovative Italian cuisine with a Californian twist, echoing Mission's creative flair.
Zuni CaféMax's Bistro & BarKnown for its sophisticated comfort food and bustling, cozy vibe.
NopaTrelioOffers a modern approach to cuisine with a strong focus on local and seasonal ingredients.
Brenda's French Soul FoodFresno Breakfast HouseRenowned for its hearty breakfasts and comfort food with a soulful twist.
La TaqueriaDon Pepe's TaqueriaA go-to for authentic Mexican eats, capturing the vibrant flavors akin to La Taqueria.
Foreign CinemaThe StandardIts elegant ambiance and refined dishes offer a cinematic dining experience.
Liholiho Yacht ClubPCHPacific chop house that brings a touch of island spirit to its dishes, mirroring Liholiho's unique vibe.

For those who will miss the sophisticated flavors of Gary Danko, The Lime Lite in Fresno offers a refined dining atmosphere with an emphasis on locally sourced ingredients, ensuring a smooth culinary transition. Likewise, seafood enthusiasts can find solace in Pismo's Coastal Grill, where the focus on fresh, high-quality seafood and a relaxed yet sophisticated setting echoes the experience at Swan Oyster Depot. Tartine Bakery aficionados will appreciate La Boulangerie's commitment to excellence in baked goods, offering a slice of San Francisco's famed bakery culture right in the heart of Fresno. Each comparison aims not just to replicate a dining experience but to introduce you to the rich culinary diversity that Fresno has to offer, ensuring that your move is as delicious as it is exciting.

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Ready to start your move?

San Francisco vs. Fresno Real Estate & Living Facts

Understanding the dynamics of real estate is crucial when planning a move. Comparing housing aspects between San Francisco and Fresno helps you make an informed decision about your relocation. This comparison emphasizes on cost, architecture, and lifestyle to guide you through.

San Francisco
Fresno
Typical Architecture Style
Victorian, Edwardian
Spanish, Bungalow
Walkability
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Bikeability
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Urban Lifestyle
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Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing
View, Luxury Amenities
Spacious Yards, Family-Friendly

In diving deeper into these statistics, it's evident that San Francisco offers a vibrant urban lifestyle, synonymous with its hilly landscapes and iconic Victorian architecture. The city's high walkability and bikeability scores mirror its dense, yet navigable urban fabric, often highlighted by breathtaking views and luxury amenities in real estate listings. Meanwhile, Fresno presents a more relaxed environment with its predominant Spanish and Bungalow architectural styles. Housing in Fresno is significantly more affordable, whether you're looking to buy or rent. The city's real estate often boasts spacious yards, catering to a family-friendly atmosphere. This stark contrast in housing and lifestyle between San Francisco and Fresno allows potential movers to align their preferences and budgets with the city that suits them best.

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Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Fresno, CA

1. Woodward Park : You and your furry friend will love the numerous trails and large park spaces ideal for walking, playing, and socializing.

2. Fig Garden : This neighborhood offers a variety of pet-friendly amenities and green spaces that make it easy for you to enjoy outdoor activities with your pets.

3. River Park : With its welcoming community vibe, you'll find plenty of pet-friendly dining options and open areas for your four-legged companion to explore.

San Francisco vs. Fresno Weather Considerations

When planning a move from San Francisco to Fresno, it is vital to understand how the climate and weather conditions will differ in your new home. Comparing the weather between San Francisco and Fresno helps you prepare for changes in temperature, sunshine, and air quality, ensuring a smoother transition.

San Francisco
Fresno
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, Fog
Heatwaves, Drought
Air Quality
Good
Moderate
Summer icon

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

67°F / 53°F
98°F / 70°F
Winter icon

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

57°F / 46°F
55°F / 38°F


Rainfall icon

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

23.65
11.5
Snowfall icon

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

0
0


In transitioning from San Francisco to Fresno, you'll encounter a striking difference in climate. Summers in Fresno are significantly hotter, making air conditioning more of a necessity than in the mild, breezy summers of San Francisco. While both cities enjoy plenty of sunshine, Fresno's higher UV index calls for more rigorous sun protection. The drier Fresno air can be a relief for those bothered by San Francisco's humidity but might necessitate a humidifier for comfort. Understanding these differences ensures you're better prepared for your new environment.

Ready to start your move?

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

When contemplating a move from San Francisco, CA to Fresno, CA , it's crucial to grasp how the financial landscape will shift. Understanding the differences in cost of living , income levels , and taxation will help you make an informed decision and plan your budget effectively.

San Francisco
Fresno
Avg. Household Income
$121,826
$61,250
Cost of Living Index
164
117.3
State Income Tax
9.3
9.3
Avg. Property Tax
0.6
0.7
Avg. Sales Tax
8.5
7.25
Top 3 Industries
Technology, Finance, Tourism
Agriculture, Manufacturing, Healthcare
Affluence
High
Moderate
Poverty
Low
Higher
Homelessness
Significant
Lesser

Moving from San Francisco to Fresno, you'll find a significant difference in the cost of living and average household income. Despite sharing the same state income tax, your dollar stretches further in Fresno, with a much lower cost of living index and slightly lower sales tax rate. However, the average property tax rate is marginally higher. This difference reflects the broader economic context of each city, with San Francisco being a hub for technology and finance, affording it a higher level of affluence, whereas Fresno's economy is strongly rooted in agriculture and manufacturing. The change in economic base also influences the levels of poverty and homelessness, which are higher in Fresno but against a backdrop of a more manageable cost of living.

San Francisco vs. Fresno Political & Religious Comparison

Understanding the cultural and societal landscape of a new city is crucial in making your move as smooth as possible. Here, we provide a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents between San Francisco & Fresno, helping you gauge the general atmosphere of the community you're about to join.

San Francisco
Fresno
Political Make-up
Heavily Democratic
Moderately Democratic
Local Politics
Progressive
Mixed, with conservative leanings
Religion
Diverse, with significant non-religious population
Religious diversity, but more religious than San Francisco

While both cities are in California, the political landscape is notably different. San Francisco is known for its heavily Democratic and progressive stance on various issues, making it a hub for liberal politics in the U.S. Fresno, while still leaning Democratic, has a significantly more conservative and mixed political atmosphere. This mix may be attributed to its more religious demographic compared to San Francisco's significant non-religious population. The religious diversity in both cities adds a rich cultural texture to the community but expect a slight tilt towards more traditional values in Fresno. Understanding these differences can help you set the right expectations and integrate more seamlessly into your new home.

San Francisco vs. Fresno Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

Moving between cities is a significant adjustment, especially when considering daily transportation needs. This guide aims to help you better understand the differences in traffic and transportation options between San Francisco and Fresno, making your transition smoother.

San Francisco
Fresno
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)
34
22
Traffic Congestion
8 out of 10
4 out of 10
Availability of Public Transit
9 out of 10
5 out of 10
Can you get by without car?
Yes
No

San Francisco and Fresno offer distinct living experiences, especially when it comes to commuting. In San Francisco, the higher traffic congestion score reflects its busy streets but is mitigated by an excellent public transportation system, allowing residents to easily navigate the city without a car. On the other hand, Fresno, with its lower traffic congestion and commute time, is more car-dependent due to the limited availability of public transit options. Understanding these differences is key to preparing for your move and establishing your daily commute in your new city.

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