Best San Jose to Fresno Movers + Moving Guide

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If you're moving from San Jose to Fresno and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 157 mile long distance California move go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 108 San Jose 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 Jose 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 Jose to Fresno Moving Companies

Phone (800) 787-5428

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

Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 157 miles from San Jose, CA to Fresno, CA will cost on average $1,915 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom San Jose to Fresno move is roughly $4,570. 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$1,291300 ft³$4.30
1 Bedroom$1,915450 ft³$4.25
2 Bedrooms$3,154750 ft³$4.20
3 Bedrooms$4,5701100 ft³$4.15
4 Bedrooms$6,5681600 ft³$4.10
5+ Bedrooms$7,2991800 ft³$4.05
*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 Jose guide.

Compare the 5 Best San Jose 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
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
2
California Loyal Movers Logo

California Loyal Movers

Exceptional9.65/10
based on 2,350+ data points

999 Commercial St # 206

Palo Alto, CA, 94303

About California Loyal Movers

Located in Palo Alto, California Loyal Movers has a proven track record of helping people and businesses in the Bay Area...

Services

  • Local moves
  • Long-distance moves
  • Loading and unloading services

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2020505 / -

Not Authorized

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans3
Registered Drivers2
Total Annual Miles Moved1 (2018)
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 Jose vs. Fresno Neighborhood Comparison

Moving can be a daunting experience, especially when transitioning to a new city. This guide aims to help you familiarize yourself with the local neighborhoods between San Jose, CA & Fresno, CA by comparing San Jose's top neighborhoods with their closest counterparts in Fresno.

San JoseFresnoHow They're Similar
Willow GlenTower DistrictHistoric charm and vibrant local scene
Rose GardenOld Fig GardenEstablished area with lush greenery
Downtown San JoseDowntown FresnoCultural and business hub
Alum RockWoodward ParkFamily-oriented with park amenities
JapantownChinatownRich cultural heritage and history
EvergreenClovisSuburban feel with strong community organizations
Almaden ValleyHarlan RanchQuiet residential area with scenic views
Santana RowRiver ParkUpscale shopping and dining destinations
North San JoseNorth FresnoBusiness and tech developments
Cambrian ParkFresno HighResidential area with classic appeal

If you're fond of Willow Glen's historic charm and lively local scene, you'll enjoy Fresno's Tower District, where unique architecture meets a thriving arts culture, with eateries and festivals around every corner. Those who appreciate the lush gardens of San Jose's Rose Garden will find Old Fig Garden in Fresno delightful, a neighborhood celebrated for its mature trees and spacious plots. Similarly, bustling Downtown San Jose is mirrored by Downtown Fresno's vibrant cultural presence, offering theaters, museums, and exciting nightlife. Meanwhile, if your heart yearns for Japantown's rich cultural roots, Fresno's Chinatown offers an equally engaging historical experience, with its mix of traditional venues and community events. Finally, those who value the tech-forward energy of North San Jose may see familiarity in North Fresno, where business and technology sectors are on the rise, creating a dynamic atmosphere for innovation.

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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 Jose to Fresno

Moving from one city to another brings its own set of challenges and opportunities. This comparison aims to provide an honest reflection of the good and bad attributes of relocating from San Jose, CA to Fresno, CA . By understanding the pros and cons, you can make an informed decision that best suits your lifestyle and needs.

CONs
PROs
San Jose, CA iconSan Jose, CA
  • Higher cost of living
  • More traffic congestion
  • Fewer affordable housing options
  • Less agricultural community
  • Denser population
Fresno, CA iconFresno, CA
  • Lower cost of living
  • Less traffic
  • More affordable homes
  • Rich agricultural sector
  • Smaller populational density
Fresno, CA iconFresno, CA
  • Less tech jobs
  • Fewer nightlife venues
  • Farther from Silicon Valley
  • Less dining diversity
  • Fewer cultural attractions
San Jose, CA iconSan Jose, CA
  • Thriving tech industry
  • Better nightlife options
  • Proximity to Silicon Valley
  • Diverse dining options
  • More cultural attractions

Moving to Fresno offers the advantage of living in a less crowded area with a more affordable lifestyle, ideal for those looking to buy a home or start a family. The city is known for its strong agricultural sector, providing fresh, local produce and a community steeped in farming traditions. While San Jose boasts a thriving tech industry and multitude of dining and nightlife options, such as the renowned San Pedro Square Market, Fresno counters with its unique attractions like the historic Fresno Chaffee Zoo and the beautiful Shinzen Japanese Garden. Though Fresno may offer fewer big-city amenities, it compensates with a rich community spirit and access to nature, such as the nearby Yosemite National Park, making it an enticing option for those seeking a more relaxed pace of life.

San Jose vs. Fresno Food Guide

This is a comparison of the local cuisine between San Jose & Fresno, highlighting the significance of food in understanding the cultural vibe and lifestyle of an area. Knowing what culinary delights await can enrich your moving experience, allowing for a smoother transition to your new home.

San Jose
Fresno
Most iconic local food item
Pho
Tri-tip steak
Most popular meat dish
Carne Asada
Grilled chicken
Most popular street food item
Tacos
Tacos
Most popular vegan food
Acai bowls
Vegan burritos
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
  • Original Joe's
  • Manresa
  • Falafel's Drive-In
  • The Landmark
  • Sam's Italian Deli & Market
  • Dog House Grill
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 Jose, the vibrant Vietnamese community has made pho a local favorite, available in many neighborhoods, particularly in Little Saigon. Similarly, Fresno boasts incredible tri-tip steak, a testament to the area's rich agricultural heritage. Vegan options are flourishing in both cities, with San Jose offering delightful acai bowls in the trendy area of Santana Row and Fresno finding its vegan niche with creative burrito options. San Jose's abundance of food trucks and higher foodie scene rating exemplify its diverse and evolving culinary landscape, while Fresno maintains a hearty, comfort-food vibe with places like The Landmark and Dog House Grill offering a taste of the local flavor.

San Jose vs. Fresno Restaurant Comparison

When moving from San Jose, CA to Fresno, CA, finding your new go-to dining spots can significantly help in making your new location feel like home. This comparison of top San Jose restaurants to their Fresno equivalents aims to ease your transition by guiding you towards your next favorite eateries.

San JoseFresnoWhat You'll Love
Le PapillonThe Lime LiteHigh-end dining with a focus on refined plates
Firehouse No.1 GastropubCracked Pepper BistroUnique gastropub experience with intricate flavors
Dia de PescaPismo's Coastal GrillFresh, coastal seafood vibes
Aqui Cal-MexMax's Bistro & BarCreative California cuisine with a casual flair
La Foret RestaurantThe Annex KitchenItalian influenced with a seasonal menu from local ingredients
Falafel Drive-InMed WrapsAuthentic Mediterranean flavors with a laid-back atmosphere
Birk's RestaurantFleming's Prime Steakhouse & Wine BarHigh-quality steaks and an extensive wine list
Original Joe's San JoseSam's Italian Deli & MarketClassic Italian dishes in a cozy setting
Santana RowElbow RoomChic place for American cuisine and socializing
Orenchi RamenRamen Ichiban KanJapanese comfort food with an authentic touch

Discovering culinary gems like Fleming's Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar in Fresno, echoes the high-quality steak experience found at Birk's Restaurant in San Jose, ensuring the transition between cities doesn’t mean sacrificing on dining standards. For the seafood aficionados, transitioning from the likes of Dia de Pesca to Pismo's Coastal Grill means staying connected to fresh, flavorful dishes that celebrate coastal cuisine. Lastly, those seeking a cozy yet sophisticated atmosphere for Italian fare will find solace in Sam's Italian Deli & Market, reminiscent of the authentic and comforting meals served at Original Joe's San Jose.

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Ready to start your move?

San Jose vs. Fresno Real Estate & Living Facts

When planning a move, comparing the real estate landscapes of your current and future cities is crucial. Understanding the differences in housing costs, architecture, and lifestyle between San Jose and Fresno will help you make an informed decision. Let's dive into how these two California cities compare in these vital aspects.

San Jose
Fresno
Typical Architecture Style
Modern and Spanish
Ranch and 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
Proximity to tech hubs, green spaces
Large lots, family-friendly

The difference in median home prices and monthly rent between San Jose and Fresno is stark, reflecting the broader cost of living and the economic landscape of each city. San Jose, with its modern and Spanish architectural influences, caters to a more urban lifestyle. Its high walkability and bikeability scores are indicative of a city designed for active residents. In contrast, Fresno, despite its lower scores in these areas, offers its own charm with more traditional Ranch and Craftsman homes, large lots, and a focus on family-friendly environments. This comparison highlights the diversity in Californian living experiences and can significantly influence your decision on where to relocate.

Pet-friendly neighborhoods background image

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 Jose vs. Fresno Weather Considerations

When you're moving from one location to another, understanding how the weather compares is invaluable for a seamless transition. This comparison focuses on the weather patterns and climate differences between San Jose and Fresno, offering insights into what you can expect when you relocate. Armed with this knowledge, you can better prepare for your move.

San Jose
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
Droughts, Air Quality Issues
Air Quality
Moderate
Variable, often Poor
Summer icon

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

82°F / 57°F
97°F / 66°F
Winter icon

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

60°F / 42°F
55°F / 38°F


Rainfall icon

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

15.82
11.50
Snowfall icon

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

0
0


Moving from San Jose to Fresno, you'll encounter notable weather shifts, especially during summer where Fresno registers higher temperatures. Fresno's additional sunshine days and higher average UV index highlight the importance of sun protection as part of your daily routine. Despite Fresno having slightly lesser annual rainfall, its higher humidity levels might surprise you, potentially affecting comfort and activity planning. Understanding these nuances ensures you're well-prepared to adapt to Fresno's climate, from selecting appropriate clothing to planning outdoor activities around the peak heat times.

Ready to start your move?

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

Moving from one city to another can significantly impact your finances. Understanding the differences in cost of living, taxes, and income between San Jose and Fresno will help make your transition smoother. This comparison aims to provide a clearer picture of what to expect financially in your new city.

San Jose
Fresno
Avg. Household Income
$126,377
$61,250
Cost of Living Index
156.1
117.3
State Income Tax
9.3
9.3
Avg. Property Tax
0.79
0.81
Avg. Sales Tax
9.25
7.98
Top 3 Industries
Technology, Healthcare, Education
Agriculture, Healthcare, Retail
Affluence
Very high
Moderate
Poverty
Low
High
Homelessness
Noticeable
Significant

When moving from San Jose to Fresno, you'll find a striking contrast in the cost of living and average household income. Although both cities are in California, San Jose is much more affluent with a significantly higher average household income and cost of living index. The high cost of living in San Jose is primarily driven by housing and technology-dominated job market. In contrast, Fresno, with its lower cost of living, offers more affordable housing options. Despite the lower average income, Fresno's economy benefits from a strong agriculture sector, leading to different employment opportunities compared to San Jose's tech-centric jobs. Understanding these financial nuances is key to planning your move and setting realistic expectations for your new lifestyle in Fresno.

San Jose vs. Fresno Political & Religious Comparison

In planning your move from San Jose, CA, to Fresno, CA, it’s important to understand the communities you’ll be joining. This includes getting a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents in a comparison between San Jose & Fresno. Such insights can help you anticipate the cultural and social landscape of your new home.

San Jose
Fresno
Political Make-up
Lean Democratic
Moderate, with a mix of Democratic and Republican
Local Politics
San Jose City Council
<a href="https://www.fresno.gov/citycouncil/" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">Fresno City Council</a>
Religion
Multicultural and diverse religious practices
Diverse with a significant Christian community

San Jose and Fresno offer unique social and political landscapes reflective of California's diversity. In San Jose, you'll find a community that leans more Democratic, engaging with a multicultural tapestry of religious practices. The local politics are governed by the San Jose City Council, offering a broad set of policies and services for its residents. On the other hand, Fresno presents a more balanced political stance between Democrats and Republicans, with local politics overseen by the Fresno City Council. Fresno's religious landscape is diverse, with a notable presence of the Christian community, reflecting a different aspect of California's cultural variety. Understanding these nuances will help you better integrate into your new community.

San Jose vs. Fresno Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

Moving from one city to another can be a daunting task, especially when it comes to adjusting to new daily commutes and understanding traffic patterns. This guide aims to provide a clear comparison between the traffic and transportation options in San Jose & Fresno, so you can better understand what your daily commute might look like.

San Jose
Fresno
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)
32
22
Traffic Congestion
7 out of 10
4 out of 10
Availability of Public Transit
6 out of 10
3 out of 10
Can you get by without car?
It's challenging
It's quite hard

When comparing San Jose to Fresno regarding commute and transportation, there are noteworthy differences. San Jose, with its average commute time of 32 minutes and a higher traffic congestion score, suggests that residents may face longer and potentially more stressful daily commutes than those living in Fresno, where the average commute time sits around 22 minutes with less congestion. Despite San Jose having more robust public transit options, getting around without a car in both cities can be challenging, though slightly more feasible in San Jose. This stark contrast in public transit availability underscores the importance of a personal vehicle in both locales, despite Fresno's overall less demanding traffic conditions.

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