Best Santa Rosa to San Jose Movers + Moving Guide

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If you're moving from Santa Rosa to San Jose and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 101 mile long distance California move go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 106 Santa Rosa to San Jose 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 Santa Rosa compared to San Jose. 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 Santa Rosa to San Jose Moving Companies

Company
Score Question
Affordability Index
1Sweet Lemon Moving Services9.789.67
2Quantum Moving9.719.78
3Fresh Start Movers9.689.44
4OCD Moving Services LLC9.679.47
5Pure Moving Company9.659.41
Phone (800) 787-5428

How Much Does it Cost to Move from Santa Rosa to San Jose?

Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 101 miles from Santa Rosa, CA to San Jose, CA will cost on average $1,867 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Santa Rosa to San Jose move is roughly $4,454. 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$1,260300 ft³$4.20
1 Bedroom$1,867450 ft³$4.15
2 Bedrooms$3,074750 ft³$4.10
3 Bedrooms$4,4541100 ft³$4.05
4 Bedrooms$6,3991600 ft³$4.00
5+ Bedrooms$7,1081800 ft³$3.95
*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 San Jose to Santa Rosa guide.

Compare the 5 Best Santa Rosa to San Jose 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

Exceptional9.78/10
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
Quantum Moving Logo

Quantum Moving

Exceptional9.71/10
based on 1,349+ data points

535 Main St

Martinez, CA, 94553

About Quantum Moving

Quantum Moving is located in Martinez, California, and has been serving families and businesses in the surrounding areas with local and...

Services

  • Bay Area Local Moving Services
  • Long Distance Moving Services Within California
  • Commercial Office Moves

Interstate Moving License

Circle X Mark
Not Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/10/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3163557 / -

Not Authorized

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans3
Registered Drivers5
Total Annual Miles Moved35,000 (2022)
View Full Review
2
Fresh Start Movers Logo

Fresh Start Movers

Exceptional9.68/10
based on 1,689+ data points

1055 14th St Unit A

Santa Rosa, CA, 95404

About Fresh Start Movers

Fresh Start Movers upholds an impressive 100% customer satisfaction and 0% claims rate. It has years of experience serving customers in...

Services

  • Local Moving
  • Commercial Moves
  • Packing Services
View Full Review
3
OCD Moving Services LLC Logo

OCD Moving Services LLC

Exceptional9.67/10
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
4
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
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.

Santa Rosa vs. San Jose Neighborhood Comparison

Moving to a new city can be an exciting yet daunting process. To ease the transition, we've prepared a comparison of the local neighborhoods between Santa Rosa, CA & San Jose, CA , helping you find a familiar feel in an unfamiliar city. By matching popular neighborhoods from Santa Rosa with their San Jose counterparts, based on vibe, amenities, and community spirit, you'll feel right at home in no time.

Santa RosaSan JoseHow They're Similar
Montgomery VillageWillow GlenFamily-friendly, boutique shopping
Bennett ValleyAlmaden ValleyScenic views, quiet community
Rincon ValleyCambrian ParkSuburban feel, good schools
St. RoseDowntown San JoseHistoric charm, urban amenities
RoselandEast San JoseDiverse, vibrant community
Annadel State ParkAlum Rock ParkNature escapes, hiking trails
Coffey ParkBerryessaResidential, community-focused
FountaingroveSilver Creek ValleyUpscale, picturesque landscapes
Proctor TerraceRose GardenHistoric, well-maintained homes
Southwest Santa RosaBlossom ValleyFamily-oriented, outdoor shopping malls

In these neighborhoods, you won't just discover places to live; you'll find communities where life unfolds at your pace. For instance, if you've enjoyed the quaint charm and boutique shopping of Montgomery Village, you'll feel right at home in Willow Glen, where local shops and festive holiday decorations capture a similar spirit. Outdoor enthusiasts transitioning from Santa Rosa's Annadel State Park will appreciate the rugged beauty and hiking trails of Alum Rock Park in San Jose, offering a great escape into nature. And for those seeking an urban atmosphere with historic flair, moving from St. Rose to Downtown San Jose means you're still at the heart of cultural festivities, exquisite dining, and vibrant nightlife, with venues like San Pedro Square Market exemplifying the lively community spirit. Each neighborhood in your new city offers unique treasures waiting to be discovered, ensuring your move feels less like a leap into the unknown and more like a journey home.

Ready to start your move?

Pros and Cons of Moving from Santa Rosa to San Jose

Moving from Santa Rosa to San Jose presents a unique opportunity and challenge. This comparison aims to reflect honestly on the pros and cons of relocating from Santa Rosa to San Jose, giving you a rounded view of what to expect. Whether you're seeking better job opportunities, a more vibrant city life, or simply a change of scenery, it's essential to weigh the differences between your current and future homes carefully.

CONs
PROs
Santa Rosa, CA iconSanta Rosa, CA
  • Higher wildfire risk
  • Smaller city vibe
  • Less diverse cuisine
  • Lower job market diversity
San Jose, CA iconSan Jose, CA
  • More tech jobs
  • Larger cultural scene
  • Wider food variety
  • Stronger public transport
San Jose, CA iconSan Jose, CA
  • More expensive housing
  • Denser living spaces
  • Faster-paced lifestyle
  • Higher cost of living
Santa Rosa, CA iconSanta Rosa, CA
  • Quieter neighborhoods
  • Rural and natural escapes
  • Community-centered living
  • Better air quality

Moving from the serene landscapes of Santa Rosa to the bustling tech hub of San Jose introduces a variety of lifestyle changes. Santa Rosa is beloved for its quiet, community-focused neighborhoods and access to the great outdoors, such as the serene trails at Annadel State Park. In contrast, San Jose boasts a vibrant city life filled with cultural events at places like the San Jose Center for the Performing Arts and a plethora of dining options ranging from casual eats at Santa Teresa Ristorante to exotic cuisines at DishDash. While the transition may bring about challenges such as adjusting to a faster-paced lifestyle and coping with a higher cost of living, the opportunities for career advancement and experiencing a diverse, dynamic city are compelling reasons to make the move.

Santa Rosa vs. San Jose Food Guide

This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Santa Rosa & San Jose, aiming to offer insights into the food cultures of both. Understanding the culinary backdrop of a new city is crucial because food is a significant aspect of what defines the local culture and lifestyle. This comparison will help you get a better sense of what each location has to offer, culinary-wise, as you plan your move.

Santa Rosa
San Jose
Most iconic local food item
Wine Country Cuisine
Pho
Most popular meat dish
Trip-tip BBQ
Carne Asada
Most popular street food item
Tacos
Banh Mi
Most popular vegan food
Organic Salads
Vegetable Pho
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
  • Stark's Steak & Seafood
  • The Tipsy Boar
  • Astraluña
  • Original Joe's
  • Falafel's Drive-In
  • The GrandView Restaurant
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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Exploring the culinary landscapes of Santa Rosa and San Jose reveals distinct tastes and traditions. Santa Rosa, nestled in the heart of wine country, blends local vineyard offerings into its cuisine, making wine pairings a central aspect of dining out. Popular spots like Stark's Steak & Seafood offer gourmet experiences that embody the region's flavors. On the other hand, San Jose's food scene is heavily influenced by its diverse population, with Vietnamese cuisine like Pho standing out as a local favorite. This diversity extends into the city's vibrant street food and food truck culture, showcasing an array of international flavors. San Jose's Original Joe's and Falafel's Drive-In are testament to the city's rich culinary diversity, offering classic American Italian and Middle Eastern fast food. Both cities prioritize health and fitness, with numerous restaurants catering to health-conscious and vegan diners, reflecting the overall lifestyle of California.

Santa Rosa vs. San Jose Restaurant Comparison

Relocating brings the challenge of finding your new favorite spots, especially when it comes to dining. Food plays a pivotal role in making a new city feel like home. This guide offers a comparison of top restaurants in Santa Rosa to their closest equivalents in San Jose, facilitating a seamless transition and helping you discover new culinary delights in your new hometown.

Santa RosaSan JoseWhat You'll Love
Willi's Wine BarWine AffairsBoth offer a cozy atmosphere with an impressive wine list.
Russian River Brewing CompanyOriginal Gravity Public HouseSimilar focus on craft beers and hearty pub food.
Stark's Steak & SeafoodAlexander's SteakhouseBoth provide a high-end meat-centric dining experience.
LoCoco's Cucina RusticaPaesano Ristorante ItalianoAuthentic Italian dishes in a similar warm, rustic setting.
Rosso Pizzeria & Wine BarPizza AnticaOffers a gourmet pizza experience utilizing high-quality ingredients.
Dierk's Parkside CaféBill's CaféBoth are beloved local breakfast spots known for generous, hearty portions.
Sazon Peruvian CuisineAdelita's Taqueria & BarThough focusing on Mexican cuisine, it's celebrated for its authentic Latin flavors.
El Coqui Puerto Rican CuisineLuna Mexican KitchenProvides a comparable focus on authentic, traditional dishes from Latin America.
Sweet T's Restaurant + BarSmoking Pig BBQ CompanyBoth excel in offering finger-licking American BBQ favorites.
La Gare French RestaurantLe PapillonHigh-end dining experiences serving meticulously prepared French cuisine.

Exploring new dining spots is one of the exciting parts of moving. For instance, if you've been a regular at Stark's Steak & Seafood indulging in premium cuts, Alexander's Steakhouse in San Jose offers a tantalizing selection of steaks and seafood, ensuring you don't miss what you loved back in Santa Rosa. On casual days, when the craving for a uniquely crafted beer paired with a comforting pub meal hits, Original Gravity Public House in San Jose provides an atmosphere and selection reminiscent of Russian River Brewing Company, making it your go-to for laid-back dining. Embracing these similar yet unique dining experiences can make your transition smoother while opening up new flavors and friendships in San Jose.

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Ready to start your move?

Santa Rosa vs. San Jose Real Estate & Living Facts

Real estate is a pivotal factor in any move. It's vital to comprehend how the housing aspects of Santa Rosa and San Jose compare, focusing on costs, architecture, and lifestyle. This comparison will illuminate the differences and similarities that could impact your decision.

Santa Rosa
San Jose
Typical Architecture Style
Victorian, Craftsman
Modern, Mediterranean
Walkability
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Bikeability
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Urban Lifestyle
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Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing
Large gardens, spacious lots
Smart home features, proximity to tech hubs

The housing market in Santa Rosa and San Jose presents distinct characteristics. In Santa Rosa, you might find homes with large gardens and spacious lots, reflecting a more relaxed, suburban lifestyle. This city's architecture often includes charming Victorian and Craftsman styles. In contrast, San Jose, being at the heart of Silicon Valley, boasts a higher median home price and rental rate, accommodating a more urban lifestyle with an emphasis on modern and Mediterranean architecture. Homes in San Jose frequently feature smart home technologies and close proximity to tech hubs, underscoring the city's integration with the tech industry. Both cities offer decent bikeability scores, appealing to those who prioritize sustainable transportation options.

Pet-friendly neighborhoods background image

Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in San Jose, CA

1. Willow Glen: Known for its quaint, tree-lined streets, you'll find plenty of pet-friendly restaurants and a welcoming atmosphere at Willow Glen's downtown area, perfect for leisurely walks with your furry friends.

2. Cambrian Park: Boasting a serene suburban vibe, Cambrian Park is home to several parks, including the dog-friendly Butcher Dog Park, where your pets can play off-leash in a safe, enclosed environment.

3. Downtown San Jose: If you're looking for a more urban experience, Downtown San Jose offers many pet-friendly living spaces and amenities, alongside dog-friendly dining options like Original Joe’s, making it an ideal place for pet owners who love city living.

Santa Rosa vs. San Jose Weather Considerations

Moving from one city to another can significantly change your daily life, especially when it comes to the weather. Understanding how the climate shifts from Santa Rosa to San Jose is crucial for planning your wardrobe, outdoor activities, and even your health needs. Here's a detailed comparison to help you make an informed decision.

Santa Rosa
San Jose
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
Wildfires, Earthquakes
Earthquakes, Floods
Air Quality
Moderate
Good
Summer icon

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

82°F / 51°F
83°F / 58°F
Winter icon

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

58°F / 38°F
60°F / 42°F


Rainfall icon

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

36
15
Snowfall icon

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

0
0


When relocating from Santa Rosa to San Jose, you'll find both similarities and differences in the weather. While the average summer temperatures are quite similar, winters in San Jose are slightly milder. With an almost equal number of sunny days, San Jose enjoys slightly better air quality and less annual rainfall, making it drier than Santa Rosa. These variations could impact your outdoor plans and even your health, especially if you're sensitive to air quality or allergies. Being aware of these differences can help you adjust better to your new home.

Ready to start your move?

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

When planning a move from one location to another, it's vital to grasp the financial landscape of your new home compared to your old one. This comparison between Santa Rosa and San Jose aims to illuminate the differences in costs and economic conditions you'll encounter. By understanding these changes, you can better prepare for your relocation.

Santa Rosa
San Jose
Avg. Household Income
$86,459
$126,377
Cost of Living Index
136.4
156.1
State Income Tax
9.3
9.3
Avg. Property Tax
0.73
0.79
Avg. Sales Tax
8.75
9.25
Top 3 Industries
Healthcare, Manufacturing, Wine Production
Technology, Manufacturing, Education
Affluence
Moderate
High
Poverty
Low
Low
Homelessness
Concerning
Severe

Moving from Santa Rosa to San Jose means preparing for a significant shift in cost of living—in San Jose, the index is substantially higher due to factors like housing costs. While both cities share the same state income tax rate, San Jose imposes a marginally higher sales tax. The average household income in San Jose is notably higher, which can be attributed to the booming technology sector, a top industry not as prevalent in Santa Rosa. This economic dynamism in San Jose contributes to its higher affluence level, though both cities struggle with homelessness. Understanding these financial and economic nuances will help you navigate your move more smoothly.

Santa Rosa vs. San Jose Political & Religious Comparison

This comparison of the politics between Santa Rosa & San Jose offers a quick snapshot of the distinct political and religious landscapes you're transitioning between. Delve into each city's unique community attributes to better understand your new home.

Santa Rosa
San Jose
Political Make-up
Leans Democratic
Leans Democratic
Local Politics
Focus on housing and homelessness
Emphasis on tech growth and infrastructure
Religion
Diverse; prominent Catholic and Protestant communities; local diocese
Diverse; includes significant Catholic, Protestant, Buddhist, and Hindu communities

While both Santa Rosa and San Jose lean Democratic politically, the issues at the heart of local politics vary. Santa Rosa's local government has been grappling with housing shortages and homelessness, an issue made more pressing by recent wildfires affecting the region. Meanwhile, San Jose's politics often revolve around supporting and regulating the tech industry, which drives much of the city's economy and influences infrastructure development. Religious life in both cities is diverse, offering communities for a variety of faiths, but each city has its distinct religious institutions catering to their communities' needs.

Santa Rosa vs. San Jose Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

This comparison focuses on what the daily commute and traffic is like between Santa Rosa & San Jose, aiming to offer a clearer understanding of the differences in driving and transit options across these cities.

Santa Rosa
San Jose
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)
26
30
Traffic Congestion
5 out of 10
7 out of 10
Availability of Public Transit
4 out of 10
7 out of 10
Can you get by without car?
No
Yes

Living in Santa Rosa typically means experiencing lighter traffic congestion compared to San Jose. However, despite this, the availability and convenience of public transit in Santa Rosa lag behind that of San Jose, where the public transit system is more robust, including services like Caltrain and the VTA. Consequently, while you may find it somewhat challenging to get by without a car in Santa Rosa, San Jose's comprehensive transit options offer a feasible alternative to driving. Understanding these differences in daily commute logistics can significantly impact your lifestyle and transportation choices when moving between these cities.

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