Best San Francisco to Minneapolis Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from San Francisco to Minneapolis and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 1,953 mile move from California to Minnesota go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 25 San Francisco to Minneapolis 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 OCD Moving Services LLC), how much the move costs (approximately $2,500 - $8,500 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in San Francisco compared to Minneapolis. 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 Minneapolis Moving Companies
| Rank | Company | Score  | Affordability Index | License |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | OCD Moving Services LLC | 9.67 | 9.47 | Authorized For HHG |
| 2 | Metro Movers | 9.52 | 9.73 | Authorized For Property |
| 3 | Bay - L.A. Express Moving | 9.34 | 9.49 | Authorized For HHG |
| 4 | Careful Movers | 9.31 | 8.63 | Authorized For HHG |
| 5 | General Expert Moving Service LLC | 9.30 | 8.89 | Authorized For HHG |
(800) 787-5428How Much Does it Cost to Move from San Francisco to Minneapolis?
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 1,953 miles from San Francisco, CA to Minneapolis, MN will cost on average $3,442 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom San Francisco to Minneapolis move is roughly $8,304. 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 | $2,310 | 300 ft³ | $7.70 |
| 1 Bedroom | $3,442 | 450 ft³ | $7.65 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $5,699 | 750 ft³ | $7.60 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $8,304 | 1100 ft³ | $7.55 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $11,998 | 1600 ft³ | $7.50 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $13,408 | 1800 ft³ | $7.45 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Minneapolis to San Francisco guide.
Compare the 5 Best San Francisco to Minneapolis Movers
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
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) |
Metro Movers
434 Blake Rd N
Hopkins, MN, 55343
About Metro Movers
Metro Movers, a licensed and insured transport and logistics company in Minnesota, was founded by two childhood friends with a shared...
Services
- Residential Moving
- Business Moving
- Long Distance Residential Moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3742268 / 1503884 Authorized For Property Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 3 |
| Registered Drivers | 3 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 16,000 (2023) |
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) |
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) |
General Expert Moving Service LLC
3804 22nd Ave S
Minneapolis, MN, 55407
About General Expert Moving Service LLC
General Expert Moving Service LLC is a family-owned moving company based in Minnesota. It started with two brothers and a pickup...
Services
- Cheap moving
- Local moving
- Long-distance moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2846187 / 1285395 Authorized For HHG Carrier/Shipper |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 5 |
| Registered Drivers | 24 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 30,000 (2024) |
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. Minneapolis Neighborhood Comparison
Embarking on a move from one city to another can be daunting, especially when it comes to finding a neighborhood that feels like home. This guide aims to ease that transition by offering a comparison of the local neighborhoods between San Francisco, CA & Minneapolis, MN . We'll explore the top neighborhoods in San Francisco and their Minneapolis counterparts, helping you find your next community.
| San Francisco | Minneapolis | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| The Mission | Northeast Minneapolis | Vibrant arts and food scene |
| Haight-Ashbury | Uptown Minneapolis | Boasts a progressive spirit with eclectic shops |
| Noe Valley | Fulton | Family-friendly with a mix of quiet streets and local shops |
| Marina District | Linden Hills | Near lakes, with trendy boutiques and eateries |
| SOMA (South of Market) | North Loop | Hub for tech, arts, and entertainment |
| Pacific Heights | Kenwood | Upscale, with grand homes and refined ambience |
| Financial District | Downtown Minneapolis | Economic center with high-rises and hustle |
| Outer Sunset | Longfellow | Laid-back vibe, access to nature and parks |
| Nob Hill | Lowry Hill | Historic architecture with a luxury feel |
| Mission Bay | St. Anthony Main | Waterfront views, modern living spaces |
For those moving from San Francisco's bustling Mission District with its rich mural art and culinary diversity, Northeast Minneapolis will feel like slipping into a familiar coat, offering a similar rich arts scene and an array of dining experiences like those found at Psycho Suzi's or Betty Danger's Country Club. Similarly, the serene and upscale atmosphere of Pacific Heights finds a parallel in Kenwood, where strolls around Lake of the Isles echo walks in Lafayette Park. Meanwhile, the tech and arts vibrancy of SOMA is mirrored in the North Loop, known for its innovative companies and cultural spots like ACME Comedy Company. These correlations between neighborhoods not only ease the transition but enrich the experience of cultivating a new sense of 'home'.
Things to Do in Minneapolis
Explore the Walker Art Center- Picnic by Minnehaha Falls
- Shop at Mall of America
- Visit Mill City Museum
- Bike along the Mississippi River
- Spend a day at Minnesota Zoo
- Catch a Twins game at Target Field
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from San Francisco to Minneapolis
Moving from one city to another presents a blend of challenges and rewards. This guide is designed to give you an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of relocating from San Francisco, CA to Minneapolis, MN . By comparing the cons and pros, you'll get a balanced view of what to expect in your new home.
San Francisco, CA- High living costs
- Crowded
- Frequent fog
- Less snow
Minneapolis, MN- More affordable housing
- Less crowded
- Distinct seasons
- Winter activities
Minneapolis, MN- Smaller tech scene
- Less variety
- Fewer landmarks
- No ocean
San Francisco, CA- Tech hub
- Diverse cuisine
- Iconic landmarks
- Coastal city
In transitioning from the bustling tech and cultural hub of San Francisco to the serene and welcoming ambiance of Minneapolis, you'll trade iconic landmarks like the Golden Gate Bridge for the scenic beauty of the Chain of Lakes and the urban greenery of Minnehaha Park. While you might miss the myriad of dining options that cities like San Francisco offer, Minneapolis holds its own with gems like Spoon and Stable and vibrant areas like the North Loop. Furthermore, the change in climate introduces you to a host of winter activities uncommon in California, from ice fishing on Lake Harriet to cross-country skiing in Theodore Wirth Park. This move invites a lifestyle change that extends beyond just the seasonal wardrobe adjustments, offering a fresh perspective amidst the rich cultural and natural landscape of Minneapolis.
San Francisco vs. Minneapolis Food Guide
Understanding the local food culture is vital when relocating, as it's a significant aspect of what it's like to live in a certain area. In this guide, we'll delve into a comparison of the local cuisine between San Francisco & Minneapolis, providing you with a better grasp of the food scene in your new city.
- Tartine Bakery
- Zuni Café
- Gary Danko
- Spoon and Stable
- Matt's Bar
- Seasons
When you move from San Francisco to Minneapolis, you'll transition from the seafood and sourdough haven of the Golden Gate to the comfort foods and innovative vegan options of the North Star State. San Francisco's iconic sourdough bread can trace its origins back to the Gold Rush days, while Minneapolis prides itself on the Juicy Lucy, a cheese-stuffed burger that has become a local legend. While both cities boast a vibrant food scene, San Francisco's boasts a slightly higher health and vegan friendliness, reflected in its abundance of fresh produce and vegan restaurants. In Minneapolis, you can dive into the local cuisine by visiting Spoon and Stable for a fine dining experience or Matt's Bar for a more laid-back, iconic Juicy Lucy. Each city offers a unique food scene, deeply intertwined with its cultural fabric and local traditions.
San Francisco vs. Minneapolis Restaurant Comparison
Finding your new go-to spots in a new city can make it feel like home. This restaurant comparison between San Francisco and Minneapolis will help you find your next favorite eateries, using your current favorites as a guide.
| San Francisco | Minneapolis | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Zuni Café | Spoon and Stable | sophisticated dining with a focus on local ingredients |
| Nopa | Alma | offers a creative, seasonally inspired menu in a casual yet refined setting |
| Tartine Bakery | Patisserie 46 | renowned for its outstanding baked goods and a similar commitment to quality |
| La Taqueria | Pajarito | modern Mexican cuisine and a laid-back atmosphere that echoes La Taqueria’s vibe |
| Swan Oyster Depot | Smack Shack | known for its fresh seafood and casual, fun dining experience |
| Gary Danko | The Capital Grille | offers a fine dining experience with a focus on steak and wine, akin to Gary Danko's elegance |
| Mission Chinese Food | World Street Kitchen | brings a fresh take on global street foods, similar to the innovative dishes at Mission Chinese |
| Foreign Cinema | Bachelor Farmer | combines fine dining with a unique atmosphere, where both locations put an emphasis on the dining experience |
| Brenda's French Soul Food | Brasa Premium Rotisserie | offers soul-warming dishes and a cozy atmosphere reminiscent of Brenda's |
| Bi-Rite Creamery | Milkjam Creamery | equally famous for its creative and delicious ice cream flavors |
When the craving for comforting French soul food strikes, Brasa Premium Rotisserie in Minneapolis is your go-to, drawing comparisons to San Francisco's beloved Brenda's with its hearty, satisfying dishes and inviting ambiance. Similarly, lovers of fine dining will find Spoon and Stable a delight, offering a sophisticated menu and atmosphere that would remind one of Zuni Café, highlighting a passionately curated dining experience. For those enchanted by San Francisco's innovative and globally inspired Mission Chinese Food, World Street Kitchen presents an excellent alternative, embracing a vibrant, eclectic menu that captures the spirit of ingenuity in food. All these Minneapolis establishments mirror the diverse and exciting culinary landscape of San Francisco, ensuring a seamless transition for food enthusiasts.
Ready to start your move?
San Francisco vs. Minneapolis Real Estate & Living Facts
Real estate is a crucial aspect of relocating, and comprehending how housing, costs, and lifestyle metrics compare between your current city and your potential new home is essential. This comparison focuses on real estate aspects of San Francisco vs. Minneapolis , providing a clearer picture of what to expect in terms of living conditions and urban lifestyle.
When comparing housing between San Francisco and Minneapolis, several key differences emerge, notably in the median home price and monthly rent, reflecting San Francisco's significantly higher cost of living. However, San Francisco scores higher in terms of walkability and urban lifestyle, indicative of its dense, vibrant urban environment. Minneapolis, while more affordable, offers a different appeal, showcasing more space, a family-friendly atmosphere, and proximity to lakes and green spaces as highlighted in real estate listings. Notably, the architecture in Minneapolis leans towards the Arts & Crafts and Bungalow styles, providing a distinct contrast to San Francisco's iconic Victorian and modernist buildings. This juxtaposition of cost, lifestyle, and architectural styles adds depth to your understanding of what each city offers, helping inform your decision-making process.
Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Minneapolis, MN
1. Linden Hills : You’ll find plenty of pet-friendly parks and walking trails where your furry friend can explore and socialize.
2. Northeast Minneapolis : This neighborhood offers an array of pet-friendly cafes and breweries where you and your pet can relax and unwind together.
3. Uptown : With its vibrant atmosphere, you’ll have access to dog parks and pedestrian-friendly areas that are perfect for walking your pet.
San Francisco vs. Minneapolis Weather Considerations
Moving from one city to another means adapting to a new climate. This comparison chart highlights how the weather in San Francisco, CA, and Minneapolis, MN differ, equipping you with the knowledge to prepare for your relocation.
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Understanding the climate differences between San Francisco and Minneapolis is essential for your move. San Francisco's mild climate with cool summers and gentle winters contrasts sharply with Minneapolis's hot summers and frigid winters. Notably, the winter temperatures in Minneapolis can plunge significantly below freezing, requiring a well-insulated wardrobe. Furthermore, the risk of natural disasters shifts from earthquakes in San Francisco to blizzards and tornadoes in Minneapolis, emphasizing different preparedness needs. Adjusting to the significant increase in annual snowfall in Minneapolis, from virtually none in San Francisco, represents a considerable change in lifestyle and possibly your daily commute. Preparing for these adjustments will make your transition smoother.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from San Francisco to Minneapolis
Relocating from one city to another requires an understanding of how the cost of living, taxes, and income levels differ. This comparison between San Francisco and Minneapolis gives insights into the financial adjustments you may need to make when moving.
When moving from San Francisco to Minneapolis, you'll find significant differences in financial realities. The average household income in San Francisco far exceeds that of Minneapolis, reflecting the higher cost of living and the presence of high-paying industries like technology and finance. However, Minneapolis offers a more affordable living experience, with a cost of living index more than half lower than San Francisco's. Despite this affordability, Minneapolis maintains a robust economy with strong sectors in manufacturing and medical devices. Adjusting to the tax landscape will also be part of the transition, with both state income and sales taxes being lower in Minneapolis, thus potentially stretching your dollar further.
San Francisco vs. Minneapolis Political & Religious Comparison
When planning your move from San Francisco to Minneapolis, understanding the local dynamics can be invaluable. This comparative glance provides insight into the comparison of the politics between San Francisco & Minneapolis and the religious landscape, offering a snapshot into what makes each city unique.
Both San Francisco and Minneapolis are known for their liberal political landscapes, each being a stronghold for the Democratic Party. This similarity in political makeup might make the transition smoother for you. However, when it comes to religion, there's a notable contrast. San Francisco boasts a significant non-religious community alongside its religious diversity, possibly linked to its vibrant LGBTQ+ scene and progressive values. Minneapolis, while also diverse, has a stronger prevalence of Christian communities. Understanding these nuances can help you better integrate into your new city.
San Francisco vs. Minneapolis Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Preparing for a move? Understanding the differences in the daily commute and traffic between San Francisco and Minneapolis is crucial. This comparison will highlight what to expect from each city's traffic and transportation options, helping you make an informed decision for your new life.
When moving from San Francisco to Minneapolis, you'll notice significant differences in your daily commute. San Francisco's average commute time is longer, about 34 minutes, partly due to its higher traffic congestion. The city, however, has excellent public transit options with services like SFMTA, making it entirely possible to live without owning a car. In contrast, Minneapolis offers a more relaxed pace with shorter commute times and less congestion. While its public transit system is reliable, with services including the Metro Transit, the need for a car is more prevalent compared to San Francisco. This fundamental shift in traffic dynamics and transit availability could significantly affect your daily life and planning.
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