Best San Jose to Los Angeles Movers + Moving Guide
Want help with the heavy lifting?
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 Moving Companies
Rank | Company | 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 | Pure Moving Company | 9.65 | 9.41 |
5 | California Loyal Movers | 9.65 | 9.6 |
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 Size | Moving Cost | Volume of Packed Items (ft³) | $/ft³ |
---|---|---|---|
Studio | $1,396 | 300 ft³ | $4.65 |
1 Bedroom | $2,071 | 450 ft³ | $4.60 |
2 Bedrooms | $3,415 | 750 ft³ | $4.55 |
3 Bedrooms | $4,953 | 1100 ft³ | $4.50 |
4 Bedrooms | $7,124 | 1600 ft³ | $4.45 |
5+ Bedrooms | $7,925 | 1800 ft³ | $4.40 |

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
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

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

California Loyal Movers
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
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2020505 / - Not Authorized Carrier |
Registered Trucks/Vans | 3 |
Registered Drivers | 2 |
Total Annual Miles Moved | 1 (2018) |

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 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 Jose | Los Angeles | How They're Similar |
---|---|---|
Willow Glen | Los Feliz | Quaint, tree-lined streets, trendy shops |
Campbell | Pasadena | Family-friendly, historic buildings, downtown ambiance |
Rose Garden | Silver Lake | Scenic, artistic community, quaint cafés |
Almaden Valley | Thousand Oaks | Suburban, calm environment, similar demographics |
Japantown | Little Tokyo | Rich cultural experience, traditional eateries |
West San Jose | Santa Monica | Shopping hubs, vibrant atmosphere |
Evergreen | North Hollywood | Community-focused, family-centric amenities |
Downtown San Jose | Downtown LA | Business centers, nightlife, cultural sites |
Blossom Valley | Burbank | Residential, close-knit community vibe |
Alviso | Venice | Coastal 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 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.
- Higher cost of living
- Less diverse culinary scene
- Smaller job market
- More subdued nightlife
- Less public transportation
- More entertainment options
- Vast culinary diversity
- Larger job market
- Vibrant nightlife
- Extensive public transit
- More crowded
- Higher crime rates
- Poorer air quality
- Competitive job market
- Far from Silicon Valley
- 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.
- Original Joe's
- Falafel's Drive-In
- Vung Tau Restaurant
- n/naka
- Guelaguetza
- Philippe the Original
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 Jose | Los Angeles | What You'll Love |
---|---|---|
Manresa | Providence | Both offer exquisite fine dining experiences with a focus on seasonal ingredients. |
La Foret Restaurant | The Little Door | Both provide a romantic, intimate setting with a European ambiance and exquisite cuisine. |
Original Joe's San Jose | Musso & Frank Grill | Iconic spots known for their classic American dishes and timeless charm. |
Falafel's Drive-In | Zankou Chicken | Both are go-to spots for quick, delicious Middle Eastern bites in a casual setting. |
Aqui Cal-Mex | Gracias Madre | Offers a similar Californian-Mexican fusion with a focus on fresh, organic ingredients and vegan options. |
Diablo Grande | El Compadre | Both are famed for their festive atmosphere and fiery dishes that ignite the taste buds. |
Santouka Ramen | Daikokuya Ramen | Renowned for their authentic, richly flavored ramen bowls that comfort the soul. |
Back A Yard | Little Kingston Jamaican Restaurant | Both known for their hearty, flavorful Caribbean cuisine and homey vibes. |
Ludwig's German Table | Wirtshaus | Offers a slice of Germany in Los Angeles, from the hearty meals to the wide selection of beers. |
Haberdasher | The Varnish | Both 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.

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.
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 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.
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
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.
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.
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.
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.



Additional Resources
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