Best San Jose to Boston Movers + Moving Guide

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If you're moving from San Jose to Boston and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 3,181 mile move from California to Massachusetts go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 60 San Jose to Boston 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 Stairhopper Movers), how much the move costs (approximately $3,000 - $11,000 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in San Jose compared to Boston. 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 San Jose to Boston Moving Companies

Company
Score Question
Affordability IndexLicense
1Stairhopper Movers9.679.62Authorized For HHG
2Centaur Moving9.619.79Authorized For HHG
3D&L Movers9.359.36Active
4Careful Movers9.318.63Authorized For HHG
5Joshua's Moving Packing & Storage LLC9.269.14Active
Phone (800) 787-5428

How Much Does it Cost to Move from San Jose to Boston?

Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 3,181 miles from San Jose, CA to Boston, MA will cost on average $4,486 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom San Jose to Boston move is roughly $10,857. 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$3,006300 ft³$10.02
1 Bedroom$4,486450 ft³$9.97
2 Bedrooms$7,440750 ft³$9.92
3 Bedrooms$10,8571100 ft³$9.87
4 Bedrooms$15,7111600 ft³$9.82
5+ Bedrooms$17,5851800 ft³$9.77
*Please note: These California to Massachusetts moving prices are rough approximations based upon nationwide data as well as local and statewide data from California & Massachusetts. 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 MA mover.
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Boston to San Jose guide.

Compare the 5 Best San Jose to Boston Movers

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

Stairhopper Movers Logo

Stairhopper Movers

Exceptional9.67/10
based on 8,823+ data points

20 Harvard St

Boston, MA, 2129

About Stairhopper Movers

Since 2001, Stairhopper Movers has operated as a Boston-based local moving company that performs local and long-distance residential and commercial moves....

Services

  • Local moves
  • Long distance moves
  • Commercial moves

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/9/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

1696867 / 623045

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans21
Registered Drivers22
Total Annual Miles Moved261,200 (2022)
View Full Review
1
Centaur Moving Logo

Centaur Moving

Exceptional
claimed company icon
9.61/10
based on 1,518+ data points

171 Windsor St

Cambridge, MA, 02139

About Centaur Moving

Centaur Moving, based in Cambridge, Massachusetts, is a fully licensed and insured moving company with services for local and nationwide moves....

Services

  • Local Moving
  • Long Distance Moving
  • Commercial Relocations

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/10/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3638077 / 1249051

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans2
Registered Drivers3
Total Annual Miles Moved20,000 (2022)
View Full Review
2
D&L Movers Logo

D&L Movers

Exceptional9.35/10
based on 1,583+ data points

1563 Bahama Way

Campbell, CA, 95008

About D&L Movers

Founded by Drew Sanchez and Leo Cervantes, D&L Movers is a local moving company that offers full-service relocations for homes and...

Services

  • Cheap moving
  • Local moving
  • Long-distance moving

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 7/23/2023)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2706648 / -

Active

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans3
Registered Drivers5
Total Annual Miles Moved20,000 (2017)
View Full Review
3
Careful Movers Logo

Careful Movers

Exceptional9.31/10
based on 4,143+ data points

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

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/9/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

1464935 / 553377

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans14
Registered Drivers14
Total Annual Miles Moved90,000 (2022)
View Full Review
4
Joshua's Moving Packing & Storage LLC Logo

Joshua's Moving Packing & Storage LLC

Exceptional9.26/10
based on 1,646+ data points

San Carlos, CA, 94070

About Joshua's Moving Packing & Storage LLC

Whether you're moving to the next street or city, Joshua's Moving, Packing & Storage offers worry-free relocation services within California. Located...

Services

  • Local moving
  • Long-distance moving
  • Cross-country moving

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 9/5/2023)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3184868 / -

Active

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans5
Registered Drivers5
Total Annual Miles Moved250,000 (2022)
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.

San Jose vs. Boston Neighborhood Comparison

Moving from one city to another can be a daunting task, especially when you're not familiar with your new home. To make this transition smoother, we've put together a comparison of the local neighborhoods between San Jose, CA & Boston, MA , helping you find a new neighborhood that feels like home. By using your current city as a baseline, we aim to introduce you to similar neighborhoods in your future city.

San JoseBostonHow They're Similar
Willow GlenBeacon HillHistoric charm, walkable streets
Almaden ValleyWest RoxburySuburban feel, family-friendly
Downtown San JoseBack BayBustling nightlife, cultural attractions
Los GatosBrooklineUpscale, green spaces
EvergreenJamaica PlainDiverse community, arts scene
Rose GardenSouth EndVictorian houses, trendy restaurants
Silver CreekCharlestownWaterfront views, historic sites
BerryessaAllstonVibrant, young population
Cambrian ParkRoslindaleResidential, diverse eateries
SaratogaNewtonAffluent, with excellent schools

For those relocating from San Jose's Willow Glen to Boston, Beacon Hill's historic charm and walkable streets offer a seamless transition. Both neighborhoods boast a strong community feel with a plethora of local boutiques and cafes. Beacon Hill, similar to Willow Glen, is recognized for its beautiful, historic architecture and cobbled streets, making it a picturesque and cozy place to live. Meanwhile, if you're moving from the family-friendly Almaden Valley in San Jose, West Roxbury in Boston will feel like home with its suburban vibe, spacious parks like the Arnold Arboretum, and community-oriented atmosphere. Downtown San Jose's vibrant life finds its match in Boston's Back Bay, where the nightlife and cultural attractions, including the Boston Public Library and Copley Square, mirror the dynamic downtown San Jose experience.

Ready to start your move?

Pros and Cons of Moving from San Jose to Boston

Moving from San Jose, CA to Boston, MA offers a unique opportunity to balance life's challenges with new advantages. This comparison aims to provide an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of this relocation. Below, we will explore the contrasts through detailed charts, highlighting the give-and-take involved in such a significant move.

CONs
PROs
San Jose, CA iconSan Jose, CA
  • Higher living costs
  • Less historical charm
  • Car-centric city
  • Less seasonal variety
Boston, MA iconBoston, MA
  • Rich historical sites
  • Four distinct seasons
  • Better public transit
  • More cultural events
Boston, MA iconBoston, MA
  • Higher housing costs
  • Colder climate
  • Smaller living spaces
  • More snowfall
San Jose, CA iconSan Jose, CA
  • Tech job opportunities
  • Milder winters
  • Outdoor activities
  • Year-round sunshine

Relocating from San Jose to Boston introduces you to a city teeming with rich history and an array of cultural events throughout the year. Imagine walking the Freedom Trail on a crisp fall day or enjoying the vibrant festival scene, like the renowned Boston Calling Music Festival. San Jose's tech-dominated job market shifts to a more diverse range of opportunities in Boston, including education, healthcare, and finance. The trade-off involves adapting to Boston's colder climate, which brings beautiful snow in winter but also higher heating costs. Despite this, neighborhoods like Beacon Hill offer charming cobblestone streets and detailed historical architecture, while the North End is famous for its Italian cuisine, such as the beloved Mike's Pastry. Whether it's enjoying the greenery of the Boston Common or exploring the innovation-driven Seaport District, moving to Boston offers a blend of modern living and historical reverence unmatched by San Jose's tech-centered lifestyle.

San Jose vs. Boston Food Guide

This comparison of the local cuisine between San Jose & Boston aims to enrich your understanding of the food scene in these cities. Knowing the local specialties and culinary vibes can significantly influence your daily life and social experiences after your move.

San Jose
Boston
Most iconic local food item
Pho
Clam Chowder
Most popular meat dish
Carne Asada
Lobster Roll
Most popular street food item
Tacos
Cannoli
Most popular vegan food
Acai Bowl
Vegan Clam Chowder
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
  • Manresa
  • Falafel's Drive-In
  • Original Joe's San Jose
  • Neptune Oyster
  • Union Oyster House
  • Mike's Pastry
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 San Jose and Boston reveals distinctive flavors that mirror their cultural and geographic diversity. San Jose, with its vibrant Vietnamese community, is renowned for its authentic Pho and a variety of street food, particularly in neighborhoods like Little Saigon. Meanwhile, Boston's historic connection to the sea is tastefully represented in its iconic Clam Chowder and Lobster Rolls, found in establishments such as Union Oyster House, one of the oldest restaurants in the United States. Both cities cater well to health enthusiasts and vegans, though San Jose edges slightly ahead with its abundant food truck culture and health-conscious options like Acai Bowls, synonymous with its sunny, outdoor lifestyle.

San Jose vs. Boston Restaurant Comparison

Understanding the culinary scene is key to feeling at home in a new city. This comparison of top San Jose restaurants to their Boston counterparts aims to ease your transition by guiding you towards finding new favorite eateries. Whether you're craving high-end dining, casual bites, or iconic dishes, this matchup will align your tastes from San Jose to Boston.

San JoseBostonWhat You'll Love
AdegaOleanaInnovative Mediterranean flavors, mirroring Adega’s high-quality Portuguese cuisine.
La ForetMistralClassic French dining with an elegant atmosphere similar to La Foret’s romantic setting.
Original Joe'sCarlo's Cucina ItalianaOffering a comparable traditional Italian-American dining experience.
Smoking Pig BBQSweet Cheeks QAuthentic, down-home barbecue that rivals the heartiness of Smoking Pig BBQ.
Falafel Drive-InAmsterdam FalafelshopSimilar in its casual vibe and focus on Middle Eastern cuisine, especially falafels.
Santouka RamenGanko Ittetsu RamenBoth excel in serving up authentic, richly flavored Japanese ramen.
ManresaNo. 9 ParkSophisticated dining experiences, offering inventive cuisine in an upscale setting.
Dia De PescaYankee LobsterSeafood favorites in a casual setting, echoing Dia De Pesca’s laid-back feel.
MezcalLolita Cocina & Tequila BarBoth spots are known for their vibrant atmosphere and extensive tequila selections.
Back A YardCafé CreoleBrings a taste of the Caribbean to the table, much like Back A Yard’s comforting island flavors.

Delving deeper into the dining scene, Boston's Oleana and San Jose's Adega both offer a mesmerizing journey through Mediterranean and Portuguese flavors, each with their unique twist. For barbecue aficionados missing the Smoking Pig BBQ, Sweet Cheeks Q in Boston provides an authentic, hearty meal that captures the essence of American barbecue. And for those who appreciate the simplicity and nostalgia of family-run Italian-American cuisines, Carlo's Cucina Italiana in Boston stands as a beacon, mirroring the warmth and traditional dishes found at Original Joe's in San Jose. Each Boston counterpart not only matches the culinary experience of its San Jose muse but also embodies the character and atmosphere, promising you a seamless culinary transition.

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Ready to start your move?

San Jose vs. Boston Real Estate & Living Facts

When planning a relocation, understanding the real estate landscape is crucial. This comparison aims to highlight the differences in housing aspects between San Jose, CA, and Boston, MA, providing a clear picture of what to expect in your potential new home.

San Jose
Boston
Typical Architecture Style
Modern and Ranch
Victorian and Federal
Walkability
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Bikeability
🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle
🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing
Outdoor spaces, Tech-friendly
Historic details, Proximity to public transportation

While analyzing the housing market of San Jose and Boston, several interesting contrasts emerge. For instance, the median home price in San Jose is significantly higher than Boston's, reflecting the premium for living in Silicon Valley. However, Boston's slightly higher median monthly rent points towards its denser urban living and presumably higher demand for rental properties in the city's core areas. The architecture in both cities also mirrors their regional histories and climates. San Jose's homes often feature modern and Ranch styles that cater to the California indoor-outdoor living ethos. In contrast, Boston's Victorian and Federal-style buildings evoke its colonial past, offering a charm that's distinctly New England. The differences in walkability, bikeability, and urban lifestyle scores also underline the contrasting urban planning principles and geographical characteristics shaping each city. Whether it's the tech-friendly outdoor spaces in San Jose or the historic details and access to public transportation in Boston, each city presents a unique blend of features catering to a variety of preferences and lifestyles.

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Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Boston, MA

1. Jamaica Plain : With its abundance of parks and green spaces like the Arnold Arboretum, Jamaica Plain offers you and your pet plenty of opportunities to enjoy the outdoors.

2. South End : Known for its numerous dog parks and pet-friendly cafes, the South End provides a welcoming community where you and your furry friend can socialize and play.

3. Cambridge : Across the river, Cambridge boasts extensive trails and open spaces along the Charles River, making it an ideal area for you and your pet to explore and exercise.

San Jose vs. Boston Weather Considerations

When planning a move from San Jose, CA to Boston, MA, understanding how the weather varies between these two locations can significantly impact your preparation and lifestyle adjustments. Addressing weather expectations and adjustments is vital, ensuring your move is as smooth as possible. This comparison highlights the key differences between San Jose and Boston's climate, focusing on various weather aspects to consider.

San Jose
Boston
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
Earthquakes
Snowstorms, Nor'easters
Air Quality
Good
Moderate
Summer icon

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

82°F / 57°F
82°F / 65°F
Winter icon

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

60°F / 42°F
37°F / 22°F


Rainfall icon

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

15.5
43.8
Snowfall icon

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

0
48


In comparing San Jose and Boston, it's clear that each city offers a distinct climate that can affect your daily life in various ways. San Jose enjoys a mild, Mediterranean climate with ample sunshine and minimal rainfall, making outdoor activities enjoyable year-round. In contrast, Boston experiences a more variable climate with cold, snowy winters and warm, humid summers. Preparing for Boston's winter requires a significant adjustment, especially in wardrobe and home heating strategies. Additionally, the higher annual rainfall and prominent snowfall in Boston could impact commuting and outdoor plans, necessitating a more proactive approach to weather-related challenges.

Ready to start your move?

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

When considering a move from one city to another, comparing the financial implications is crucial for smooth transition. This chart aims to contrast San Jose and Boston in terms of money and economics, giving you insights into the cost of living, taxes, and the overall economic environment you're about to enter.

San Jose
Boston
Avg. Household Income
$126,377
$79,283
Cost of Living Index
156.1
132.5
State Income Tax
13.3 max
5.0 flat
Avg. Property Tax
0.79
1.17
Avg. Sales Tax
9.25
6.25
Top 3 Industries
Technology, Business, Healthcare
Education, Finance, Healthcare
Affluence
Very High
High
Poverty
Moderate
Moderate to High
Homelessness
Significant
Moderate

The financial landscape between San Jose and Boston showcases noticeable differences that could impact your decision and lifestyle. San Jose stands out with a higher average household income, influenced heavily by its technology-led economy. However, it's also marred by a high cost of living and the highest state income tax rate in the country. In contrast, Boston sports a relatively lower cost of living and enjoys a flat state income tax rate making it more predictable for financial planning. Despite the higher average property tax, Boston's rich blend of education, finance, and healthcare sectors offer a diverse economic base. Understanding these dynamics can aid in managing expectations and planning your finances better upon relocating.

San Jose vs. Boston Political & Religious Comparison

Considering a move from San Jose, CA to Boston, MA? This quick comparison aims to give you an insight into the comparison of the politics between San Jose & Boston and religious landscapes of both cities. Understanding these aspects can help you better integrate into your new community.

San Jose
Boston
Political Make-up
Liberal/Democratic
Liberal/Democratic
Local Politics
Focus on tech & innovation
Historical emphasis & education
Religion
Diverse, with Christianity being predominant. Cathedrals of Faith
Primarily Christian, with a strong Catholic presence. Boston Cathedral

While both San Jose and Boston share a liberal and Democratic political makeup, their focuses within local politics diverge significantly. San Jose's political discussions often revolve around technology and innovation, reflecting its Silicon Valley roots. In contrast, Boston places a heavier emphasis on its historical background and education sector, shaped by its rich colonial past and concentration of esteemed educational institutions. On the religious front, both cities exhibit a mainly Christian demographic, though San Jose boasts a more diverse religious landscape. However, Boston's strong Catholic presence, highlighted by institutions like the Boston Cathedral, marks a key aspect of its religious identity. Understanding these nuances will help you navigate your new home more effectively.

San Jose vs. Boston Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

When moving from San Jose, CA to Boston, MA, understanding the differences in daily commute and traffic is critical. This comparison between San Jose & Boston will help you better understand what to expect from each city's transportation landscape.

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

Moving from San Jose to Boston, you'll notice both cities have an average commute time of about 30 minutes. However, the ease of your daily commute might change significantly. Boston, with its higher public transit score, suggests a more reliable and widespread network, making it easier to get around without a car compared to San Jose. Boston's MBTA system includes subways, buses, and ferries, providing comprehensive coverage that can drastically reduce reliance on personal vehicles. In contrast, while San Jose offers public transit options like the VTA, the sprawling nature of the city and Silicon Valley might necessitate a car more often than not.

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