Best San Francisco to Scottsdale Movers + Moving Guide
Want help with the heavy lifting?
If you're moving from San Francisco to Scottsdale and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 808 mile move from California to Arizona go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 32 San Francisco to Scottsdale 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 Sterling Interstate LLC), how much the move costs (approximately $1,500 - $6,000 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in San Francisco compared to Scottsdale. 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 Scottsdale Moving Companies
Rank | Company | Affordability Index | License | |
---|---|---|---|---|
1 | Sterling Interstate LLC | 9.76 | 9.64 | Authorized For HHG |
2 | OCD Moving Services LLC | 9.67 | 9.47 | Authorized For HHG |
3 | Bay - L.A. Express Moving | 9.34 | 9.49 | Authorized For HHG |
4 | New Beginnings Moving Solutions | 9.33 | 9.4 | Authorized For Property |
5 | Careful Movers | 9.31 | 8.63 | Authorized For HHG |
How Much Does it Cost to Move from San Francisco to Scottsdale?
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 808 miles from San Francisco, CA to Scottsdale, AZ will cost on average $2,468 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom San Francisco to Scottsdale move is roughly $5,924. 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 | $1,661 | 300 ft³ | $5.54 |
1 Bedroom | $2,468 | 450 ft³ | $5.49 |
2 Bedrooms | $4,076 | 750 ft³ | $5.44 |
3 Bedrooms | $5,924 | 1100 ft³ | $5.39 |
4 Bedrooms | $8,536 | 1600 ft³ | $5.34 |
5+ Bedrooms | $9,513 | 1800 ft³ | $5.29 |


Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Scottsdale to San Francisco guide.
Compare the 5 Best San Francisco to Scottsdale Movers
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)

Sterling Interstate LLC

Phoenix, AZ, 85022
About Sterling Interstate LLC
Established in 2017, Sterling Interstate opened with the intention to change the stigma around the moving industry by providing reliable, customizable...
Services
- Local moving services
- Long-distance moving services
- Packing services
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3006713 / 26956 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
Registered Trucks/Vans | 6 |
Registered Drivers | 7 |
Total Annual Miles Moved | 115,000 (2022) |

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) |
Bay - L.A. Express Moving
8 22nd St
San Francisco, CA, 94107
About Bay - L.A. Express Moving
Bay-L.A. Express Moving is a professional moving company that serves Los Angeles, San Francisco, and the entire Bay Area. Specializing in...
Services
- Long-distance moving
- Small relocation
- Full packing services
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 1396171 / 530464 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
Registered Trucks/Vans | 2 |
Registered Drivers | 3 |
Total Annual Miles Moved | 60,000 (2022) |

New Beginnings Moving Solutions
6757 W Charter Oak Rd
Peoria, AZ, 85381
About New Beginnings Moving Solutions
New Beginnings Moving Solutions is a full-service moving company specializing in long-distance moves. It is locally-owned and operated and has been...
Services
- Long Distance Moves
- Local Moves
- Business Relocation
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3656946 / 1262843 Authorized For Property Carrier |
Registered Trucks/Vans | 1 |
Registered Drivers | 8 |
Total Annual Miles Moved | 500 (2021) |

Careful Movers
3641 Haven Ave C
Menlo Park, CA, 94025
About Careful Movers
With almost two decades of expertise and experience in the moving industry, Menlo Park-based Careful Movers promises stress-free, on-time, and on-budget...
Services
- Local Moving
- Long Distance Moving
- Office Moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 1464935 / 553377 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
Registered Trucks/Vans | 14 |
Registered Drivers | 14 |
Total Annual Miles Moved | 90,000 (2022) |

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. Scottsdale Neighborhood Comparison
Relocating introduces an unfamiliar world of neighborhoods, each with its own personality and lifestyle. To ease the transition, we've crafted a comparison of local neighborhoods between San Francisco, CA & Scottsdale, AZ . This guide will help you find a new neighborhood in Scottsdale that feels like home, using the vibrant communities of San Francisco as your baseline.
San Francisco | Scottsdale | How They're Similar |
---|---|---|
Marina District | McCormick Ranch | Active lifestyle, scenic views |
Hayes Valley | Old Town Scottsdale | Boutique shopping, vibrant nightlife |
The Castro | South Scottsdale | Diverse community, robust nightlife |
Mission District | Arts District | Rich cultural scene, trendy eateries |
Nob Hill | Gainey Ranch | Upscale living, luxury amenities |
Pacific Heights | Paradise Valley | Exclusive estates, stunning landscapes |
Haight-Ashbury | Old Town Scottsdale | Historic charm, eclectic vibe |
SOMA (South of Market) | Downtown Scottsdale | Thriving arts, tech hub |
Russian Hill | Scottsdale Mountain | Hillside views, quiet community |
Noe Valley | Kierland | Family-friendly, peaceful environment |
For those drawn to the Marina District for its bustling atmosphere and picturesque setting, McCormick Ranch in Scottsdale offers a similarly active lifestyle with plenty of green spaces such as McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park. If your heart belongs to the vibrant nightlife and unique boutiques of Hayes Valley, you'll find a kindred spirit in Old Town Scottsdale, where establishments like Fashion Square and unique spots such as Kazimierz World Wine Bar await. Furthermore, the steep, hilly vistas of Russian Hill that give way to stunning bay views have a counterpart in Scottsdale Mountain, where the desert landscape offers its own panoramic beauty. This comparison ensures you won’t have to sacrifice the neighborhood characteristics you love while embracing your new city.

Things to Do in Scottsdale
- Explore Old Town Scottsdale shops and galleries
- Hike McDowell Sonoran Preserve trails
- Relax at Talking Stick Resort pool
- Play golf at Troon North Golf Club
- Visit the Butterfly Wonderland
- Discover art at Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art
- Watch a game at Salt River Fields
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from San Francisco to Scottsdale
Moving cities is a significant life event that comes with its own set of joys and challenges. This guide aims to provide an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of relocating from San Francisco, CA to Scottsdale, AZ . By comparing the cons and pros of leaving San Francisco for Scottsdale, we help you make an informed decision about this life-changing move.
- High living cost
- Foggy weather
- Traffic congestion
- Steep hills
- Dense population
- More affordable housing
- Sunny days
- Less traffic
- Flat terrain
- Spacious living
- Less diversity
- Fewer tech opportunities
- No ocean nearby
- Fewer landmarks
- Different cuisine scene
- Cultural diversity
- Thriving tech scene
- Coastal access
- Iconic landmarks
- Excellent dining
San Francisco is renowned for its vibrant cultural scene and iconic landmarks such as the Golden Gate Bridge and Alamo Square's Painted Ladies. The city's diverse cuisine is celebrated in establishments like Zuni Café and Benu, offering an eclectic mix for food enthusiasts. In contrast, Scottsdale welcomes newcomers with its sunny weather, more affordable living, and open spaces. The city boasts unique attractions like the Desert Botanical Garden and the bustling downtown area known for its shops and restaurants, such as FnB and Citizen Public House. While Scottsdale may offer fewer tech opportunities and lack the coastal charm of San Francisco, its quality of life, recreational activities, and vibrant Old Town district present a compelling case for considering the move.
San Francisco vs. Scottsdale Food Guide
When relocating, it's crucial to understand the local culture, and food plays a significant part in that. To help you adapt to your new surroundings, we've prepared a comparison of the local cuisine between San Francisco & Scottsdale so you can be more informed about the food scene in your new home.
- Tartine Bakery
- House of Prime Rib
- Swan Oyster Depot
- Pizzeria Bianco
- FnB
- Virtù Honest Craft
San Francisco prides itself on a diverse culinary culture, with the iconic sourdough bread and Cioppino showcasing its coastal influences. Notably, the Mission District is famous for its Mission Burrito, a must-try for residents and visitors alike. On moving to Scottsdale, you'll find a blend of traditional and modern flavors. Scottsdale's Old Town is a hub for food lovers, offering everything from classic Navajo Tacos to contemporary vegan options. Local favorites like Pizzeria Bianco and FnB celebrate Arizona's unique ingredients, ensuring there's always something new and exciting to taste.
San Francisco vs. Scottsdale Restaurant Comparison
Relocating can be a mix of excitement and nostalgia, especially when it comes to leaving behind favorite dining spots. However, discovering new eateries is a thrilling aspect of making a new city feel like home. This restaurant comparison between San Francisco and Scottsdale is designed to seamlessly transition your palate by matching you with your next favorite spots based on your existing preferences.
San Francisco | Scottsdale | What You'll Love |
---|---|---|
Zuni Café | Virtù Honest Craft | Cozy atmosphere with a focus on Mediterranean cuisine |
Nopa | FnB | Seasonal New American cuisine with an innovative twist |
La Taqueria | The Mission | Modern Latin cuisine in a sophisticated setting |
Tartine Bakery | Proof | Artisan bread and pastries with a hearty American breakfast |
Swan Oyster Depot | Chula Seafood | Fresh, sustainably sourced seafood in a casual environment |
State Bird Provisions | Atlas Bistro | Intimate setting with a creative American menu |
Flour + Water | Fat Ox | Italian-inspired dishes with a focus on fresh pasta |
The French Laundry (Yountville, nearby SF) | Sel | Fine dining experience with a focus on French and American cuisine |
Bi-Rite Creamery | Sweet Republic | Artisan ice cream with unique flavors |
Mission Chinese Food | Chino Bandido | Chinese-Mexican fusion with a cult following |
Exploring Scottsdale's dining scene is an adventure, especially when you start with places that remind you of San Francisco's eclectic tastes. For example, Virtù Honest Craft mirrors Zuni Café's commitment to Mediterranean flavors, incorporating local ingredients into each dish. Similarly, The Mission stands out for its innovative Latin cuisine, much like La Taqueria's legendary offerings but with a Scottsdale twist. On the sweeter side, Sweet Republic challenges traditional dessert norms with its artisan ice cream, a delightful counterpart to Bi-Rite Creamery's San Francisco charm. In essence, Scottsdale's culinary scene promises a diverse and vibrant gastronomical journey that pays homage to the rich culinary traditions of San Francisco.

Ready to start your move?
San Francisco vs. Scottsdale Real Estate & Living Facts
Deciding to relocate involves many considerations, with real estate between San Francisco and Scottsdale being a crucial factor. Understanding how housing costs, styles, and lifestyle elements compare will help you make an informed decision. Let's delve into a detailed comparison.
When comparing San Francisco to Scottsdale, the difference in median home prices and rent is prominent, reflecting the higher cost of living in San Francisco. While both cities boast distinctive architecture, San Francisco's historical Victorian and Edwardian styles contrast sharply with Scottsdale's contemporary designs, especially the Spanish-influenced Pueblo Revival. Walkability in San Francisco is significantly higher, making it a more pedestrian-friendly environment. However, Scottsdale offers its own charm with a laid-back desert lifestyle, underscored by amenities like swimming pools and breathtaking mountain views, catering to those who prefer a more relaxed, spacious setting.

Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Scottsdale, AZ
1. McCormick Ranch : You and your furry friend will love this neighborhood for its ample parks, walking trails, and dog-friendly community events.
2. Old Town Scottsdale : This vibrant area provides easy access to pet-friendly patio dining and numerous dog parks where you and your pet can socialize and relax.
3. Gainey Ranch : You’ll find this upscale neighborhood perfect for pets with its expansive green spaces and proximity to pet services and amenities.
San Francisco vs. Scottsdale Weather Considerations
When considering a move from San Francisco, CA to Scottsdale, AZ, it's crucial to understand how the weather compares between these locations. Knowing what kind of weather to expect can greatly impact your transition and daily life. This comparison will highlight differences in climate and atmospheric conditions, making your move smoother.
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Moving from the mild, foggy climate of San Francisco to the hot, dry desert of Scottsdale presents a significant adjustment. San Francisco's summer temperatures are relatively cool, especially when compared to Scottsdale's intense heat, highlighting the need for air conditioning and sun protection in Arizona. Scottsdale's lower humidity level and higher UV index indicate a much drier atmosphere, which can affect your daily hydration and skincare habits. Additionally, understanding the prevalent natural disasters in each area helps with preparedness. While both cities boast good to moderate air quality, the specific allergens may change, possibly affecting sensitive individuals differently.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from San Francisco to Scottsdale
When planning to relocate, it’s crucial to compare the cost of living and financial environment between your current city and your future home. San Francisco to Scottsdale provides a stark illustration of how money and finance considerations can impact your transition. Knowing what to expect will help you prepare financially for the move.
Moving from San Francisco to Scottsdale, you'll encounter significant changes in the cost of living and tax rates. While the average household income is higher in San Francisco, the overall cost of living and state income tax are considerably lower in Scottsdale, stretching your dollar further. The cost of living index demonstrates that Scottsdale is less expensive, offering a more affordable lifestyle without sacrificing the quality of services or lifestyle options. Property and sales taxes are relatively comparable, but the lower state income tax in Arizona means more take-home pay. Additionally, despite the difference in top industries, both cities have thriving economies supported by technology and tourism, providing ample employment opportunities.
San Francisco vs. Scottsdale Political & Religious Comparison
As you plan your move from San Francisco, CA to Scottsdale, AZ, it's vital to grasp a quick snapshot of the communities you're transitioning between. This comparison will offer you a glimpse into the political and religious makeup of the residents of San Francisco & Scottsdale, helping you understand the cultural and ideological landscapes of your old and new homes.
In moving from San Francisco to Scottsdale, you're transitioning from an environment known for its liberal and progressive policies to a community that typically leans more conservative. This shift is not only reflected in the political landscape but in local cultural and social norms as well. While San Francisco's religious scene is highly diverse, hosting a wide array of faiths and places of worship, Scottsdale has a more pronounced Christian presence, influencing everything from community events to local politics. Understanding these nuances will help you better acclimate to your new community.
San Francisco vs. Scottsdale Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Moving from San Francisco, CA, to Scottsdale, AZ, requires understanding the differences in daily commute and traffic. This comparison of the traffic and transportation options between San Francisco & Scottsdale will help you adjust to your new home.
While San Francisco offers a robust public transit system allowing residents to conveniently navigate the city without a car, Scottsdale's public transit options are much more limited, making a car almost a necessity for daily commuting. The average commute time in San Francisco is significantly higher, reflecting the city's dense urban environment and traffic congestion. In contrast, Scottsdale presents a more relaxed commute, with less congestion and shorter travel times. Adjusting to the transportation differences between these two cities could require some planning, especially if you're used to relying on public transportation.



Additional Resources
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