Best San Jose to Los Angeles Movers + Moving Guide

Want help with the heavy lifting?

Interstate MoversChevron RightCaliforniaChevron RightSan Jose to Los Angeles

Get a quote now.

If you're moving from San Jose to Los Angeles and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 341 mile long distance California move go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 195 San Jose 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 Jose 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 Jose to Los Angeles Interstate Movers Featured Image

Best San Jose to Los Angeles Moving Companies

Phone (800) 787-5428

How Much Does it Cost to Move from San Jose to Los Angeles?

Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 341 miles from San Jose, CA to Los Angeles, CA will cost on average $2,071 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom San Jose to Los Angeles move is roughly $4,953. 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$1,396300 ft³$4.65
1 Bedroom$2,071450 ft³$4.60
2 Bedrooms$3,415750 ft³$4.55
3 Bedrooms$4,9531100 ft³$4.50
4 Bedrooms$7,1241600 ft³$4.45
5+ Bedrooms$7,9251800 ft³$4.40
*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.
U-turn icon

Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Los Angeles to San Jose guide.

Compare the 5 Best San Jose to Los Angeles Movers

These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)

Fastruck Moving Company Logo

Fastruck Moving Company

Exceptional9.78/10
based on 2,882+ data points

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

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3056069 / -

Not Authorized

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans4
Registered Drivers4
Total Annual Miles Moved47,516 (2022)
View Full Review
1
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
2
Roadway Moving - LA Moving Company Logo

Roadway Moving - LA Moving Company

Exceptional9.74/10
based on 2,624+ data points

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
View Full Review
3
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
4
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
5
Rankings You Can Trust background image
Trust Rankings icon

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. Los Angeles Neighborhood Comparison

Moving from vibrant San Jose to bustling Los Angeles can be daunting, but identifying neighborhoods between San Jose, CA & Los Angeles, CA will help you settle in quickly by aligning your existing preferences with similar areas in the new city.

San JoseLos AngelesHow They're Similar
Willow GlenLos FelizQuaint, tree-lined streets, trendy shops
CampbellPasadenaFamily-friendly, historic buildings, downtown ambiance
Rose GardenSilver LakeScenic, artistic community, quaint cafés
Almaden ValleyThousand OaksSuburban, calm environment, similar demographics
JapantownLittle TokyoRich cultural experience, traditional eateries
West San JoseSanta MonicaShopping hubs, vibrant atmosphere
EvergreenNorth HollywoodCommunity-focused, family-centric amenities
Downtown San JoseDowntown LABusiness centers, nightlife, cultural sites
Blossom ValleyBurbankResidential, close-knit community vibe
AlvisoVeniceCoastal vibes, artistic influences

Los Feliz, comparable to Willow Glen, boasts charming streets filled with eclectic boutiques and cozy cafés, echoing Willow Glen's village-like atmosphere full of unique shops and dining options. For those enamored with the lush green oasis of the Rose Garden neighborhood, Silver Lake offers a similarly scenic experience, known for its artistic crowd and vibrant culture, and places like the Silver Lake Reservoir. If you appreciate the serenity of Almaden Valley, with its sprawling parks such as Almaden Quicksilver County Park, you'll find Thousand Oaks provides a tranquil refuge with its suburban calm and extensive green spaces. Meanwhile, Downtown San Jose's bustling environment is mirrored in Downtown LA, where an array of cultural attractions and a dynamic nightlife await, akin to San Pedro Square and the Tech Interactive Museum in San Jose.

Things To Do background image

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 Jose to Los Angeles

Moving from one city to another is a big step that comes with its own set of challenges and opportunities. This comparison aims to give an honest reflection of moving from San Jose, CA to Los Angeles, CA, highlighting the pros and cons of such a relocation. By understanding both the good and the bad attributes, you can make a more informed decision on whether this move is right for you.

CONs
PROs
San Jose, CA iconSan Jose, CA
  • Higher cost of living
  • Less diverse culinary scene
  • Smaller job market
  • More subdued nightlife
  • Less public transportation
Los Angeles, CA iconLos Angeles, CA
  • More entertainment options
  • Vast culinary diversity
  • Larger job market
  • Vibrant nightlife
  • Extensive public transit
Los Angeles, CA iconLos Angeles, CA
  • More crowded
  • Higher crime rates
  • Poorer air quality
  • Competitive job market
  • Far from Silicon Valley
San Jose, CA iconSan Jose, CA
  • Quieter neighborhoods
  • Lower crime rates
  • Better air quality
  • Tech job hub
  • Proximity to Silicon Valley

When considering a move between these two powerhouse cities, the unique offerings of each place become evident. Los Angeles boasts a tapestry of culinary experiences unmatched by San Jose, with renowned spots like Guelaguetza Restaurant offering traditional Oaxacan dishes and Bestia for adventurous Italian dining. The job market in LA, especially in entertainment and creative sectors, is expansive, providing a wider array of opportunities than the tech-dominated San Jose market. However, it's important to consider the environmental and social changes, such as the vibrant yet crowded lifestyle of areas like Venice Beach compared to the tranquility of San Jose's Alum Rock Park. Whether it's the diverse neighborhoods bustling with life or the plethora of job opportunities, each city has its unique charm and challenges, making it crucial to weigh these factors carefully in your decision-making process.

San Jose vs. Los Angeles Food Guide

This comparison of the local cuisine between San Jose & Los Angeles offers a glance at what the food scene is like in these dynamic cities. Food is a vibrant part of local culture, influencing the lifestyle and experiences you'll have. We aim to give you a clear picture to help you feel right at home in your new location.

San Jose
Los Angeles
Most iconic local food item
Pho
Tacos
Most popular meat dish
Bánh mì
Korean BBQ
Most popular street food item
Tamales
Street Tacos
Most popular vegan food
Acai Bowl
Vegan Ramen
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
  • Original Joe's
  • Falafel's Drive-In
  • Vung Tau Restaurant
  • n/naka
  • Guelaguetza
  • Philippe the Original
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness
💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
Abundance of Food Trucks
🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
Foodie Scene
🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly
🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱
🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

In moving from San Jose to Los Angeles, you're transitioning to a city with a richer, more diverse food scene. Los Angeles is renowned for its street tacos, found in bustling neighborhoods like Boyle Heights and Downtown LA. The city's vegan scene is second to none, with places like Ramen Hood in Grand Central Market offering innovative plant-based dishes that even meat-lovers admire. Los Angeles's higher foodie, vegan-friendly, and abundance of food trucks scores reflect its vast landscape of culinary exploration, from Koreatown's BBQ to the historic Philippe the Original, home of the French dip sandwich. Embrace LA's vibrant food scene as part of your exciting new journey.

San Jose vs. Los Angeles Restaurant Comparison

Food plays a vital role in making a new city feel like home. This restaurant comparison from San Jose to Los Angeles will aid you in discovering eateries that resonate with your culinary preferences, easing your transition. Whether you cherish high-end dining or casual eateries, this guide serves as a beacon in your quest for your next favorite restaurant.

San JoseLos AngelesWhat You'll Love
ManresaProvidenceBoth offer exquisite fine dining experiences with a focus on seasonal ingredients.
La Foret RestaurantThe Little DoorBoth provide a romantic, intimate setting with a European ambiance and exquisite cuisine.
Original Joe's San JoseMusso & Frank GrillIconic spots known for their classic American dishes and timeless charm.
Falafel's Drive-InZankou ChickenBoth are go-to spots for quick, delicious Middle Eastern bites in a casual setting.
Aqui Cal-MexGracias MadreOffers a similar Californian-Mexican fusion with a focus on fresh, organic ingredients and vegan options.
Diablo GrandeEl CompadreBoth are famed for their festive atmosphere and fiery dishes that ignite the taste buds.
Santouka RamenDaikokuya RamenRenowned for their authentic, richly flavored ramen bowls that comfort the soul.
Back A YardLittle Kingston Jamaican RestaurantBoth known for their hearty, flavorful Caribbean cuisine and homey vibes.
Ludwig's German TableWirtshausOffers a slice of Germany in Los Angeles, from the hearty meals to the wide selection of beers.
HaberdasherThe VarnishBoth boast a speakeasy vibe with expertly crafted cocktails, ideal for a night out.

Discovering equivalents to your favorite San Jose spots in Los Angeles allows for a smoother transition and keeps the essence of home alive in a new city. For instance, if you've cherished the intimate dinners and European flair at La Foret Restaurant in San Jose, you'll find a similar ambiance and culinary excellence at The Little Door in Los Angeles. Both establishments prioritize a romantic setting, paired with a menu that speaks of their commitment to quality and experience. Similarly, those longing for the unique comfort and flavor of authentic ramen from Santouka Ramen will find solace in the bowls served at Daikokuya Ramen, where every slurp transports you back to the heartwarming memories of dinners in San Jose. This guide not only serves as a culinary compass but also ensures that the flavors of your old home blend seamlessly into your new Los Angeles lifestyle.

CTA Banner background image

Ready to start your move?

San Jose vs. Los Angeles Real Estate & Living Facts

Real estate is a key component in planning a move, which is why understanding how housing options measure up between San Jose and Los Angeles becomes crucial. This comparison will help illuminate differences and similarities to make your decision easier.

San Jose
Los Angeles
Typical Architecture Style
Spanish Colonial, Modern
Modern, Art Deco
Walkability
👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability
🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle
🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing
Proximity to Silicon Valley, Outdoor Spaces
Entertainment Industry, Ocean Views

While evaluating the housing landscape in San Jose and Los Angeles, it's striking to see the differences in architecture, reflecting the cultural backdrop of each city. San Jose's blend of Spanish Colonial and Modern architecture echoes its rich history and tech-forward present. In contrast, Los Angeles presents an eclectic mix, including Modern and Art Deco, mirroring its status as an entertainment capital. Notably, Los Angeles slightly edges out San Jose in walkability and urban lifestyle, possibly due to its denser neighborhoods and vibrant street life. However, San Jose is not far behind, with its own unique outdoor spaces and proximity to Silicon Valley, making it a desirable location for those in tech.

Pet-friendly neighborhoods background image

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 Jose vs. Los Angeles Weather Considerations

When moving from one city to another, understanding the climate differences ensures no surprises weather-wise. Compare the weather between San Jose and Los Angeles to grasp how your life might change in terms of daily conditions and seasonal expectations.

San Jose
Los Angeles
Days of Sunshine per Year
☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. Annual Humidity
💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦
💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦
Avg. UV Index
🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Natural Disasters
Earthquakes, Wildfires
Earthquakes, Wildfires, Mudslides
Air Quality
Moderate
Moderate to Poor
Summer icon

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

82°F / 57°F
84°F / 66°F
Winter icon

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

60°F / 42°F
68°F / 49°F


Rainfall icon

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

15.5
14.7
Snowfall icon

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

0
0


While both cities enjoy a predominantly sunny climate, you'll notice significant differences in their weather patterns. Los Angeles benefits from more days of sunshine and milder winter temperatures compared to San Jose, making its winters noticeably more comfortable. However, Los Angeles experiences higher average humidity and a greater UV index, which could impact your daily life, especially if you spend a lot of time outdoors. Air quality in Los Angeles can vary, with some areas experiencing poorer conditions due to higher traffic volumes and industrial activities. These factors could influence your choice of neighborhood within Los Angeles based on your personal health and lifestyle preferences.

Ready to start your move?

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

When planning a move from one city to another, it's crucial to grasp how the financial aspects of your life might shift. This comparison aims to unwrap the money and finance differences between San Jose and Los Angeles , giving you a clearer picture of what to expect in terms of living costs, taxes, and overall financial climate.

San Jose
Los Angeles
Avg. Household Income
$126,377
$70,372
Cost of Living Index
156.1
136.4
State Income Tax
13.3
13.3
Avg. Property Tax
0.79
0.76
Avg. Sales Tax
9.25
9.50
Top 3 Industries
Technology, Manufacturing, Retail
Entertainment, Manufacturing, Tourism
Affluence
Highly affluent
Moderately affluent
Poverty
Lower
Higher
Homelessness
Significant
Severe

When comparing San Jose and Los Angeles, you'll find noteworthy differences in financial landscapes. San Jose's average household income significantly surpasses that of Los Angeles, reflecting its status as a tech hub with high-paying jobs. This is contrasted by a higher cost of living, albeit with a notably affluent population. Despite the California-wide identical state income tax, subtle variations in property and sales taxes can impact your budget. The thriving technology sector in San Jose stands in stark contrast to Los Angeles's diversified economy, emphasizing entertainment and tourism. However, both cities encounter challenges with homelessness, necessitating attention regardless of where you plan to move.

San Jose vs. Los Angeles Political & Religious Comparison

Moving from San Jose, CA, to Los Angeles, CA, presents an opportunity to explore the distinctive lifestyles of each city. This guide provides a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents, comparing politics between San Jose & Los Angeles, to help you better understand the community you're moving into.

San Jose
Los Angeles
Political Make-up
Liberal/Democrat
Liberal/Democrat
Local Politics
Strong focus on tech industry regulations
Entertainment industry and labor rights
Religion
Diverse; Significant Catholic and Buddhist communities
Diverse; Large Catholic, Jewish, and Buddhist populations

As you prepare for your move from San Jose to Los Angeles, you'll find both cities share a liberal ethos, though the issues at the forefront of local politics can vary significantly. San Jose's political discourse often revolves around the tech industry and its impact on housing and the economy, reflective of Silicon Valley's influence. In contrast, Los Angeles politics are deeply intertwined with the entertainment industry, alongside a strong emphasis on labor rights and environmental concerns. Religious diversity is a hallmark of both cities, with each hosting vibrant Catholic, Buddhist, and various other religious communities, contributing to a rich tapestry of cultural practices and celebrations.

San Jose vs. Los Angeles Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

Moving from San Jose, CA to Los Angeles, CA involves adapting to different traffic and transportation options. This comparison aims to better understand what the daily commute and traffic is like in these two major California cities.

San Jose
Los Angeles
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)
30
30
Traffic Congestion
7 out of 10
9 out of 10
Availability of Public Transit
6 out of 10
7 out of 10
Can you get by without car?
Challenging
Difficult

While both San Jose and Los Angeles have similar average commute times, Los Angeles experiences higher levels of traffic congestion. This can significantly impact your daily life, especially if you are commuting during peak hours. However, Los Angeles offers a slightly better public transit system than San Jose, making it somewhat easier to navigate the city without a car, though still challenging. Both cities are designed with cars in mind, and relying solely on public transport might limit your accessibility to several areas and amenities.

CTA Banner background image
Connect with one of our Certified Moving Partners.
Best San Jose to Los Angeles Movers Featured Image