Best Los Angeles to San Francisco Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from Los Angeles to San Francisco and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 383 mile long distance California move go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 203 Los Angeles to San Francisco 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 Los Angeles compared to San Francisco. 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 Los Angeles to San Francisco Moving Companies
| Rank | Company | Score  | Affordability Index |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Fastruck Moving Company | 9.78 | 9.67 |
| 2 | Sweet Lemon Moving Services | 9.78 | 9.67 |
| 3 | Roadway Moving - LA Moving Company | 9.74 | 9.3 |
| 4 | The Small Delivery Co. | 9.69 | 9.77 |
| 5 | OCD Moving Services LLC | 9.67 | 9.47 |
(800) 787-5428How Much Does it Cost to Move from Los Angeles to San Francisco?
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 383 miles from Los Angeles, CA to San Francisco, CA will cost on average $2,107 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Los Angeles to San Francisco move is roughly $5,040. 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 | $1,420 | 300 ft³ | $4.73 |
| 1 Bedroom | $2,107 | 450 ft³ | $4.68 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $3,474 | 750 ft³ | $4.63 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $5,040 | 1100 ft³ | $4.58 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $7,251 | 1600 ft³ | $4.53 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $8,068 | 1800 ft³ | $4.48 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from San Francisco to Los Angeles guide.
Compare the 5 Best Los Angeles to San Francisco 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
The Small Delivery Co.
3520 Overland Ave
Los Angeles, CA, 90034
About The Small Delivery Co.
Moving is a difficult task, even if you're just moving from a studio apartment. Unfortunately, some moving companies have a minimum...
Services
- Small move assistance (single items, one room of furniture, studio apartments, up to a one bedroom apartment)
- Furniture delivery/specialty items/donation drop off
- Loading/unloading a moving truck or storage container
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2690366 / - Not Authorized Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 1 |
| Registered Drivers | 1 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | - |
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) |
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.
Los Angeles vs. San Francisco Neighborhood Comparison
When contemplating a move from Los Angeles to San Francisco, it helps to compare the cities at a neighborhood level. This guide aims to help you bridge your understanding of Los Angeles, CA & San Francisco, CA neighborhoods by pairing similar communities between these two vibrant cities. Whether you're seeking a bustling arts scene, serene parks, or vibrant nightlife, this comparison will ease your transition and help you find a new neighborhood that feels like home.
| Los Angeles | San Francisco | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Silver Lake | The Mission | Hipster-friendly, with vibrant street art and food scene |
| Venice | Marina District | Beach vibes, bustling nightlife, and boutique shopping |
| Downtown LA | SOMA | Urban, with a mix of museums, restaurants, and tech startups |
| Hollywood | North Beach | Historic, with a lively arts scene and entertainment options |
| Beverly Hills | Pacific Heights | Upscale, offering luxury shopping and stunning views |
| West Hollywood | Castro | LGBTQ+-friendly, known for its vibrant community and nightlife |
| Studio City | Noe Valley | Family-friendly with a charming downtown area |
| Echo Park | Haight-Ashbury | Bohemian, with a rich history and eclectic vibes |
| Los Feliz | Cole Valley | Quaint, with a small-town feel and cozy dining spots |
| Santa Monica | Inner Sunset | Beachy, relaxed atmosphere with diverse food options and parks |
For those drawn to the artistic and lively streets of Silver Lake, The Mission in San Francisco presents a similar appeal with its explosion of street murals, and culinary hotspots, such as the renowned Tartine Bakery. Fitness buffs and beach lovers who adore Venice's oceanfront and laid-back culture will find a comparable lifestyle in the Marina District, where weekends mean jogging by the water or brunching on Chestnut Street. Meanwhile, Beverly Hills' luxury and exclusivity echoes in Pacific Heights, where a stroll might include views of the Golden Gate Bridge followed by shopping at boutique stores on Fillmore Street. Each San Francisco neighborhood offers a unique charm that mirrors the diverse and rich experiences available throughout Los Angeles, making the transition between these two iconic cities a journey of exciting discoveries.
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Los Angeles to San Francisco
Moving from Los Angeles, CA to San Francisco, CA is a journey of contrasts and balances. This comparison is designed to offer an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of this relocation. It will help you weigh the differences in lifestyle, cost, and environment to make an informed decision.
Los Angeles, CA- Higher traffic
- Warmer climate
- Spread out
San Francisco, CA- Walkable city
- Cooler weather
- Denser living
San Francisco, CA- Expensive rent
- Less diversity
- Foggy days
Los Angeles, CA- Vibrant nightlife
- Diverse cuisine
- Beach access
While Los Angeles boasts a vibrant nightlife with spots like Whiskey A Go Go and a diverse culinary scene highlighted by establishments such as Guelaguetza Restaurant, San Francisco counters with its own charms. The City by the Bay offers a densely packed lifestyle that makes it a pedestrian paradise, complemented by the cooler weather that many find refreshing compared to LA’s hotter climate. San Francisco’s Golden Gate Park and the bustling Ferry Building Marketplace on the Embarcadero are just a couple of examples of the unique urban experiences available to residents. Even with the foggy days and the higher cost of living, San Francisco provides a unique blend of natural beauty, tech innovation, and cultural diversity that continues to attract people from all over.
Los Angeles vs. San Francisco Food Guide
This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Los Angeles & San Francisco, showcasing that food is a crucial aspect of local culture and what living in an area feels like. It's aimed at informing readers about the food scene in their new city.
- N/Naka
- Guisados
- Pink's Hot Dogs
- Tartine Bakery
- Swan Oyster Depot
- Zuni Café
Los Angeles and San Francisco take their culinary game very seriously, each offering a unique food experience reflective of their diverse populations and innovative chefs. In Los Angeles, neighborhoods like Koreatown light up the scene with world-class Korean BBQ, while taco trucks dotted across the city offer some of the best street food in the country. San Francisco, with its rich culinary history, is home to iconic sourdough bread, nurtured in the foggy climate, and the seafood stew Cioppino, born from fishermen's catch of the day. Food enthusiasts moving to San Francisco might enjoy exploring the historic Ferry Building Marketplace or sampling the city's famous clam chowder served in a sourdough bowl at Fisherman's Wharf.
Los Angeles vs. San Francisco Restaurant Comparison
Food plays a crucial role in making a place feel like home. If you're moving from Los Angeles to San Francisco, this restaurant comparison is designed to help you find your new favorite eateries based on your existing preferences. Let this serve as your guide to discovering comparable dining experiences in Los Angeles and San Francisco , ensuring a seamless culinary transition between these two vibrant cities.
| Los Angeles | San Francisco | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Bestia | Flour + Water | Similar focus on inventive Italian dishes and house-made pasta |
| Roscoe's House of Chicken and Waffles | Brenda's French Soul Food | Both offer a unique take on comfort food classics |
| Gjelina | Zuni Café | Both known for farm-to-table menus and a rustic, chic atmosphere |
| In-N-Out Burger | Super Duper Burgers | Both are beloved for their quality fast-food burgers and fresh ingredients |
| Republique | Tartine Bakery | Iconic spots for pastries, bread, and more with a focus on quality and craft |
| n/naka | Omakase | Both offer an exquisite high-end omakase experience that is carefully curated and presented |
| Guerrilla Tacos | La Taqueria | Both offer innovative and high-quality tacos with a focus on fresh ingredients |
| Spago | Quince | Both are high-end establishments known for their creative dishes and exceptional service |
| Howlin' Ray's | Hot Sauce and Panko | Both specialize in a unique and delicious take on hot chicken and wings |
| Philippe the Original | Tommy’s Joynt | Both are historic spots known for their hearty, classic American sandwiches |
Exploring comparable restaurants between Los Angeles and San Francisco reveals how each city maintains its unique flavor profile while still offering familiar comforts. At Bestia in Los Angeles, diners are treated to a creative Italian dining experience that is echoed by Flour + Water in San Francisco, where house-made pasta takes center stage. Meanwhile, the transition from the iconic Roscoe's House of Chicken and Waffles to Brenda's French Soul Food in San Francisco promises a seamless shift in comfort food paradigms, each with its own twist. For those who revel in the simplicity and quality of fast food, the move from In-N-Out Burger to Super Duper Burgers offers a similar emphasis on fresh, quality ingredients and delicious burgers. This comparison not only eases the culinary transition but also highlights the diverse, rich food scenes that make both Los Angeles and San Francisco such beloved foodie destinations.
Ready to start your move?
Los Angeles vs. San Francisco Real Estate & Living Facts
When planning a move, comparing the real estate landscapes of your current and future cities is pivotal. Understanding how Los Angeles and San Francisco stack up in terms of housing can greatly influence your decision-making process.
In examining the housing market between Los Angeles and San Francisco, several nuances become apparent. Los Angeles offers a slightly more affordable entry into homeownership and rental living, with notable architectural styles such as Spanish Colonial Revival. The city's embrace of the outdoors and private parking in real estate listings mirrors its car-centric culture. San Francisco, on the other hand, commands a higher price for its picturesque Victorian and Edwardian homes, often highlighting the city's iconic views and rich history in property descriptions. The denser urban environment means walkability and urban lifestyle ratings outshine those in Los Angeles, making it an attractive choice for those who prioritize a vibrant city life and easy access to amenities without a car.
Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in San Francisco, CA
1. Noe Valley : You'll find this neighborhood is perfect for pets with its abundance of parks and a welcoming community that loves furry companions.
2. Pacific Heights : You and your pets will enjoy panoramic views and long walks in pet-friendly Presidio, which is easily accessible from this upscale neighborhood.
3. Dogpatch : Known for its artistic vibe, this area offers dog parks and pet-friendly establishments making it a great spot for you and your pet to explore.
Los Angeles vs. San Francisco Weather Considerations
When planning a move from Los Angeles to San Francisco, understanding how the weather variations between these two cities will impact your daily life is crucial. This comparison aims to provide a clear overview of Los Angeles and San Francisco's weather, ensuring you know what to expect.
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Moving from Los Angeles to San Francisco, you'll experience cooler summers and slightly milder winters. San Francisco's higher humidity and fog are contrasts to Los Angeles's dryer climate. Although both cities share a risk of earthquakes, San Francisco's cooler, fog-prone weather contributes to its overall different feel. Prepare for more rainy days in San Francisco, though neither city gets much snow. Adjusting your wardrobe and possibly your outdoor activities will help you embrace the change smoothly.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Los Angeles to San Francisco
When planning a move from Los Angeles to San Francisco, it's essential to understand how the financial landscape changes. This comparison aims to highlight money, finance, and economic factors that will impact your daily life in these cities. By grasping the differences, you can better prepare for a smooth transition to your new home in either Los Angeles or San Francisco.
In comparing financial aspects between Los Angeles and San Francisco, it is noteworthy that while the average household income in San Francisco significantly surpasses that of Los Angeles, the cost of living index in San Francisco also ranks substantially higher. This suggests that despite higher wages, the overall expense to maintain a certain lifestyle in San Francisco can be markedly greater. Additionally, both cities share the same state income tax percentage, reflecting California's tax structure, yet they differ in sales tax, with Los Angeles imposing a slightly higher rate than San Francisco. The difference in primary industries between the two cities also points to diverse job market landscapes, potentially influencing your career opportunities. Understanding these disparities in economic conditions can help you better prepare for the financial adjustments needed when transitioning between these two vibrant Californian cities.
Los Angeles vs. San Francisco Political & Religious Comparison
In deciding to move from Los Angeles, CA to San Francisco, CA, it's important to understand the communities you're transitioning between. This guide provides a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents in Los Angeles & San Francisco , helping you align your values with your new surroundings.
Both Los Angeles and San Francisco are known for their liberal and Democratic-leaning populations, though the priorities within local politics can vary. In Los Angeles, the primary concerns often revolve around addressing homelessness and housing issues—a reflection of the city's vast population and panorama of social challenges. San Francisco shares these concerns, with an additional emphasis on managing the impacts of the tech industry on local communities. Religion across both cities showcases a rich tapestry of beliefs, including prominent Catholic, Jewish, and Buddhist communities, each contributing its own unique cultural and social influences to the city's overall identity.
Los Angeles vs. San Francisco Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Moving from Los Angeles, CA to San Francisco, CA? Understanding the differences in traffic and transportation options between these two cities is crucial for anticipating what your daily commute might look like.
Los Angeles is notorious for its heavy traffic, earning a congestion score well above many other cities. However, if you're moving to San Francisco, you might find solace in the relatively more efficient public transit system and the slightly less congested roads. San Francisco's compact nature and extensive public transit network, including buses, trolleybuses, and the famous San Francisco Municipal Railway (Muni), make it more feasible to live without a car compared to Los Angeles. While both cities present their unique challenges, being aware of these differences can help you better prepare for your daily commute, whether it involves navigating the vast freeways of Los Angeles or the steep hills of San Francisco.
Additional Resources
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