Best San Francisco to Los Angeles Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from San Francisco to Los Angeles and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 382 mile long distance California move go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 203 San Francisco to Los Angeles 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 San Francisco compared to Los Angeles. 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 Francisco to Los Angeles Moving Companies
| Rank | Company | Score  | Affordability Index |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Fastruck Moving Company | 9.78 | 9.67 |
| 2 | Sweet Lemon Moving Services | 9.77 | 9.67 |
| 3 | Roadway Moving - LA Moving Company | 9.74 | 9.3 |
| 4 | OCD Moving Services LLC | 9.66 | 9.47 |
| 5 | Pure Moving Company | 9.65 | 9.41 |
(800) 787-5428How Much Does it Cost to Move from San Francisco to Los Angeles?
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 382 miles from San Francisco, CA to Los Angeles, CA will cost on average $2,106 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom San Francisco to Los Angeles move is roughly $5,038. 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 | $1,419 | 300 ft³ | $4.73 |
| 1 Bedroom | $2,106 | 450 ft³ | $4.68 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $3,473 | 750 ft³ | $4.63 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $5,038 | 1100 ft³ | $4.58 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $7,248 | 1600 ft³ | $4.53 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $8,064 | 1800 ft³ | $4.48 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Los Angeles to San Francisco guide.
Compare the 5 Best San Francisco to Los Angeles Movers
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
Fastruck Moving Company
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
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3056069 / - Not Authorized Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 4 |
| Registered Drivers | 4 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 47,516 (2022) |
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) |
Roadway Moving - LA Moving Company
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
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
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 Francisco vs. Los Angeles Neighborhood Comparison
Embarking on a move from San Francisco to Los Angeles can feel like a big change, but finding a familiar neighborhood can help make your new city feel like home. This guide compares local neighborhoods between San Francisco, CA & Los Angeles, CA , helping you find a new neighborhood with the same vibe as your old one.
| San Francisco | Los Angeles | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Mission District | Silver Lake | Hipster, vibrant arts scene |
| Marina District | Venice | Trendy, beachside living |
| Pacific Heights | Beverly Hills | Upscale, luxury homes |
| SOMA (South of Market) | Downtown LA | Urban, loft living |
| Nob Hill | West Hollywood | Chic, vibrant nightlife |
| Haight-Ashbury | Los Feliz | Bohemian, rich history |
| North Beach | Santa Monica | Beach access, entertainment |
| Richmond District | Pasadena | Family-friendly, cultural attractions |
| Castro | West Hollywood | LGBTQ+ friendly, lively community |
| Sunset District | Encino | Suburban, great schools |
If you've enjoyed the hipster and vibrant arts scene of the Mission District in San Francisco, you'll find a similar atmosphere in Silver Lake, LA, known for its eclectic restaurants like LAMILL Coffee and indie music venues like The Satellite. Transitioning from the upscale, luxury homes of Pacific Heights? Beverly Hills offers a comparable level of sophistication with landmarks such as Rodeo Drive for high-end shopping and dining. Meanwhile, the historical charm and bohemian vibes of Haight-Ashbury can be relived in Los Feliz, where landmarks like The Autry Museum of the American West showcase the rich cultural fabric of the area. No matter what neighborhood you are moving from, Los Angeles offers a place with a similar vibe to make your transition as smooth as possible.
Things to Do in Los Angeles
Visit Universal Studios Hollywood- Explore LACMA's art collections
- Stargaze at Griffith Observatory
- See contemporary art at The Broad
- Walk Santa Monica Pier
- Experience Disneyland
- Hike in Eaton Canyon
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from San Francisco to Los Angeles
Moving from San Francisco, CA to Los Angeles, CA offers a unique opportunity to weigh the benefits and drawbacks directly. This side-by-side comparison aims to showcase an honest reflection of the San Francisco to Los Angeles transition . Consider the lifestyle and cultural variations, the economic implications, and the diverse opportunities that each city presents.
San Francisco, CA- Higher Cost of Living
- Cooler Climate
- Smaller Beaches
- Steep Hills
- Less Diverse Cuisine
Los Angeles, CA- More Affordable
- Warmer Weather
- Larger Beaches
- Flatter Terrain
- More Diverse Cuisine
Los Angeles, CA- Less Tech Opportunities
- More Spread Out
- Varied Nightlife
- Fewer Historic Sites
- Car-Dependent
San Francisco, CA- Lively Tech Scene
- Tight-knit Communities
- Bustling Nightlife
- Iconic Landmarks
- Extensive Public Transit
Despite the challenges associated with moving, transitioning from San Francisco's iconic, fog-filled hills to Los Angeles's sunny and sprawling metropolis presents exciting opportunities. Los Angeles boasts a rich tapestry of dining options, from the vibrant flavors found at Grand Central Market to the exquisite sushi at SUGARFISH. The city's beaches, such as Santa Monica and Venice, offer vast stretches of sand compared to the more secluded beaches in San Francisco. For nature enthusiasts, Griffith Park provides an urban escape with hiking trails and the Griffith Observatory for star gazing, contrasting with San Francisco's smaller urban parks like Dolores Park. This transition might mean attending fewer tech meetups and navigating a city that relies heavily on cars, but it also opens up a new landscape of entertainment, from the cinematic heart of Hollywood to the diverse music scenes scattered across the city.
San Francisco vs. Los Angeles Food Guide
This comparison of the local cuisine between San Francisco & Los Angeles illuminates the food scene integral to each city's culture, helping you acclimate to where you'll soon call home.
- Tartine Bakery
- Swan Oyster Depot
- Zuni Café
- Pizzeria Mozza
- Guelaguetza
- In-N-Out Burger
In San Francisco, the Mission District is revered for its Mission Burrito, a hefty, foil-wrapped offering found at local haunts like La Taqueria. Across the city, sourdough bread claims its fame at institutions like Tartine Bakery, showcasing the city's rich culinary diversity. Los Angeles, on the other hand, boasts a sprawling street food scene with Street Tacos reigning supreme. Neighborhoods like Koreatown offer an array of authentic Korean BBQ spots, while the vegan movement thrives, exemplified by the prevalence of vegan tacos across the city. Iconic eateries in LA such as Pizzeria Mozza and Guelaguetza reflect the city's broad palate and dedication to diverse culinary experiences.
San Francisco vs. Los Angeles Restaurant Comparison
Relocating can be an adventure, especially when it comes to finding new favorite dining spots that remind you of home. This restaurant comparison chart between San Francisco and Los Angeles will guide you in discovering your next beloved eatery, making your new city feel like home. Whether you're seeking high-end dining, casual bites, or iconic food experiences, this comparison has got you covered.
| San Francisco | Los Angeles | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Zuni Café | Osteria Mozza | Artisanal Italian cuisine, high-quality ingredients |
| Tartine Bakery | Republique | Known for exceptional pastries and a bakery atmosphere |
| Swan Oyster Depot | Connie and Ted's | Fresh seafood in a casual, welcoming setting |
| Nopa | A.O.C. | Farm-to-table dishes with a Californian flair |
| La Taqueria | Guisados | Handmade tortillas, homestyle braises |
| The Slanted Door | Bestia | Creative, modern takes on classic dishes |
| Gary Danko | Providence | Exquisite fine dining with a focus on seafood |
| Bi-Rite Creamery | Salt & Straw | Inventive and unique ice cream flavors |
| Mission Chinese Food | Howlin' Rays | Vibrant flavors and a cult following |
| Boudin Bakery | Porto's Bakery | Iconic bakery known for its pastries and café fare |
When you find yourself missing the iconic sourdough bread from Boudin Bakery in San Francisco, a visit to Porto's Bakery in Los Angeles will offer a taste of comfort with its variety of delectable pastries and savory café fare. Similarly, if the unique flavors and atmosphere of Mission Chinese Food are what you're after, Howlin' Rays in Los Angeles provides not just the vibrant flavors but also the kind of bustling environment that food lovers cherish. Both establishments mirror the vibrant community spirit and inventive culinary landscapes of their respective cities, ensuring that your transition from San Francisco to Los Angeles is filled with delicious discoveries.
Ready to start your move?
San Francisco vs. Los Angeles Real Estate & Living Facts
Real estate is a crucial factor when considering a move. Understanding how San Francisco and Los Angeles compare in housing options can guide you in making an informed decision.
In comparing the real estate landscapes of San Francisco and Los Angeles, it's clear that both cities offer distinct living experiences. San Francisco, known for its Victorian and Edwardian houses, boasts higher walkability and bikeability scores, emphasizing its dense, urban environment. The median home price and rent are notably higher in San Francisco, reflecting its strong demand and limited space. On the other hand, Los Angeles offers a more sprawled layout with modern and Spanish Revival architecture, making swimming pools and outdoor entertainment areas common features in homes. Though its urban lifestyle score is slightly lower than San Francisco's, LA compensates with more affordable housing options and a diverse array of neighborhoods to suit different preferences.
Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Los Angeles, CA
1. Silver Lake: You and your pet will love Silver Lake's many dog-friendly cafes and the vast green spaces of the Silver Lake Reservoir.
2. West Hollywood: Your furry friend can roam freely in this neighborhood's dog parks and join you in pet-welcoming shops and restaurants.
3. Santa Monica: Enjoy the ocean breeze with your pet as you explore pedestrian-friendly streets and beach paths where dogs are welcome.
San Francisco vs. Los Angeles Weather Considerations
When relocating from San Francisco to Los Angeles, understanding the climate changes is crucial. This comparison will illuminate how the weather differs between San Francisco and Los Angeles, aiding in your adaptation to your new home.
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
While both cities enjoy a Mediterranean climate, the table highlights key differences that might affect your daily life. Los Angeles boasts more sunny days and warmer summers than San Francisco, making it ideal for beach lovers and those preferring less fog. The humidity in San Francisco is higher, which can affect comfort and air quality differently than the drier Los Angeles climate. Furthermore, understanding the prevalent natural disasters and air quality issues can help you prepare for your new environment, ensuring a smoother transition.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from San Francisco to Los Angeles
When planning a move from one city to another, it's vital to grasp how your finances might shift. This guide is designed to help you compare the cost of living, taxation, and economic environment between San Francisco and Los Angeles, equipping you with the necessary information to make an informed financial transition.
Moving from San Francisco to Los Angeles, you'll notice significant financial adjustments. The average household income is considerably higher in San Francisco which corresponds with its elevated cost of living index. Both cities face severe homelessness, but the different economic backdrops shape individual experiences uniquely. San Francisco's predominance in technology and finance contrasts with Los Angeles's entertainment and manufacturing sectors, influencing job market opportunities. Despite shared state income tax rates, the variation in sales and property taxes reflect the distinct municipal priorities and living expenses encountered in each city.
San Francisco vs. Los Angeles Political & Religious Comparison
When planning your move from San Francisco to Los Angeles, it's helpful to understand the cultural landscape you're transitioning into. This comparison highlights the political and religious makeup of residents in San Francisco & Los Angeles , providing a glimpse into the communities of each city.
San Francisco and Los Angeles share liberal political views, although San Francisco often leans more strongly to the left, advocating for progressive policies at a notable intensity. In contrast, Los Angeles presents a broader political spectrum amongst its liberal base, contributing to a diverse range of local politics and initiatives. This diversity in Los Angeles offers newcomers a wide array of communities to join, reflecting various interests and priorities within the context of its overarching liberal stance.
San Francisco vs. Los Angeles Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
When choosing between San Francisco & Los Angeles for your new home, understanding the differences in traffic and transportation options can drastically influence your daily life. This comparison aims to provide a clearer picture of what your daily commute and traffic may look like in these bustling Californian cities.
Though Los Angeles boasts shorter average commute times, it suffers from higher levels of traffic congestion compared to San Francisco. This could mean that while you spend less time commuting in Los Angeles, a larger portion of it might be stuck in traffic. Furthermore, San Francisco’s public transit system ranks significantly higher in terms of availability, making it more feasible to live there without a car. In contrast, the sprawling layout of Los Angeles and its less comprehensive public transit system typically necessitate owning a vehicle for daily commutes. This comparison underlines the importance of weighing your transportation preferences and daily commute when deciding between these two cities.
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