Best San Francisco to Billings Movers + Moving Guide

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If you're moving from San Francisco to Billings and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 1,173 mile move from California to Montana go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 10 San Francisco to Billings 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 $2,000 - $6,500 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in San Francisco compared to Billings. 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 Francisco to Billings Moving Companies

Company
Score Question
Affordability IndexLicense
1OCD Moving Services LLC9.679.47Authorized For HHG
2Bay - L.A. Express Moving9.349.49Authorized For HHG
3Careful Movers9.318.63Authorized For HHG
4Two Men and a Truck8.287.88Authorized For Property, HHG
5King Transfer & Storage Co6.871.99Authorized For Property
Phone (800) 787-5428

How Much Does it Cost to Move from San Francisco to Billings?

Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 1,173 miles from San Francisco, CA to Billings, MT will cost on average $2,779 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom San Francisco to Billings move is roughly $6,682. 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$1,867300 ft³$6.22
1 Bedroom$2,779450 ft³$6.17
2 Bedrooms$4,594750 ft³$6.12
3 Bedrooms$6,6821100 ft³$6.07
4 Bedrooms$9,6401600 ft³$6.02
5+ Bedrooms$10,7551800 ft³$5.97
*Please note: These California to Montana moving prices are rough approximations based upon nationwide data as well as local and statewide data from California & Montana. 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 MT mover.
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Billings to San Francisco guide.

Compare the 5 Best San Francisco to Billings Movers

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

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
1
B

Bay - L.A. Express Moving

Exceptional9.34/10
based on 542+ data points

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

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 8/10/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

1396171 / 530464

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans2
Registered Drivers3
Total Annual Miles Moved60,000 (2022)
View Full Review
2
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
3
Two Men and a Truck Logo

Two Men and a Truck

Very Good8.28/10
based on 165+ data points

1375 4th Ave N Suite F

Billings, MT, 59101

About Two Men and a Truck

Two Men and a Truck is a national, full-service moving company that has been in business for over 35 years. They...

Services

  • Local Moving
  • Junk Removal
  • Storage

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/11/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3818801 / 1381093

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans3
Registered Drivers6
Total Annual Miles Moved75,000 (2023)
View Full Review
4
King Transfer & Storage Co Logo

King Transfer & Storage Co

6.87/10
based on 52+ data points

7232 Grand Ave

Billings, MT, 59106

About King Transfer & Storage Co

For over 50 years, King Transfer & Storage Co has been a family-owned moving company that serves Billings, Montana, and the...

Services

  • Local Moves
  • Long Distance
  • Commercial

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

166332 / 280481

Authorized For Property

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans3
Registered Drivers2
Total Annual Miles Moved32,590 (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 Francisco vs. Billings Neighborhood Comparison

In this guide, we'll help you compare local neighborhoods between San Francisco, CA & Billings, MT . By using familiar neighborhoods from your current city as a reference, you’ll easily get to know your new home.

San FranciscoBillingsHow They're Similar
Mission DistrictNorth ParkVibrant arts scene
SoMaDowntown BillingsUrban, tech hub
Haight-AshburySouth SideHistoric and bohemian
Sunset DistrictWest EndFamily-friendly, quiet
Nob HillRimrockElevated views, upscale
ChinatownMidlandCultural diversity
CastroShilohLGBTQ+ welcoming community
Outer RichmondHeightsOcean views, spacious parks
Marina DistrictZimmermanTrendy shopping, dining
Richmond DistrictNorth ElevationEclectic mix of shops

Moving from San Francisco’s Mission District, you might find yourself drawn to North Park in Billings for its vibrant arts scene and lively atmosphere. If you appreciate the bohemian spirit and historic elements of Haight-Ashbury, South Side offers a similar vibe with its rich history. For those accustomed to the urban tech hub of SoMa, Downtown Billings provides a lively downtown with modern establishments. If the Nob Hill's elevated views and upscale ambiance are essential to your lifestyle, Rimrock with its panoramic views and luxurious edge might be your ideal spot. Finally, if family-friendly, peaceful surroundings characterize your lifestyle in the Sunset District, look towards the West End, where nearby parks provide ample space for family outings and relaxation.

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Things to Do in Billings

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Pros and Cons of Moving from San Francisco to Billings

Considering a move from San Francisco, CA to Billings, MT involves weighing the various attributes of both locations. This honest reflection sheds light on the pros and cons of leaving San Francisco behind for your new life in Billings . We aim to help you make an informed decision by presenting a balanced view.

CONs
PROs
San Francisco, CA iconSan Francisco, CA
  • High cost of living
  • Heavy traffic
  • Noise pollution
  • Foggy weather
Billings, MT iconBillings, MT
  • Affordable housing
  • Less congestion
  • Quiet neighborhoods
  • Sunnier climate
Billings, MT iconBillings, MT
  • Limited arts scene
  • Less entertainment
  • Fewer tech companies
  • Car dependency
San Francisco, CA iconSan Francisco, CA
  • Cultural diversity
  • Vibrant nightlife
  • Tech job opportunities
  • Public transit systems

While Billings, MT doesn't quite match San Francisco's cultural diversity and expansive arts scene—with its various galleries and performance venues like SFJAZZ Center—it makes up for this with its tranquil parks and natural beauty, offering peaceful retreats at places like Pioneer Park. The cost of living in San Francisco can be daunting, especially with its skyrocketing housing market, but Billings offers more affordable homes and a more relaxed pace of life. Although you'll miss San Francisco's efficient BART and Muni transport systems, navigating Billings is less stressful due to the absence of traffic congestion, allowing you to enjoy its downtown areas such as Downtown Billings more freely.

San Francisco vs. Billings Food Guide

Food is an important part of local culture and deeply informs what it’s like to live in an area. This guide provides a comparison of the local cuisine between San Francisco & Billings to better inform you about the food scene in your new home.

San Francisco
Billings
Most iconic local food item
Sourdough Bread
Bison Burger
Most popular meat dish
Cioppino
Beef Brisket
Most popular street food item
Taco
Hot Dog
Most popular vegan food
Vegan Sushi
Falafel Wrap
Top 3 iconic restaurants
  • Walker's Grill
  • The 406 Kitchen & Taproom
  • Dos Machos
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness (out of 10)
💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
Abundance of Food Trucks (out of 10)
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🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
Foodie Scene (out of 10)
🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly (out of 10)
🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱
🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

Moving to Billings, you'll find a culinary landscape that's uniquely tied to its Western roots. Iconic local foods such as the Bison Burger can be savored in various eateries like Walker's Grill in downtown Billings. The city's love for hearty meat dishes is evident in spots like The 406 Kitchen & Taproom, known for its delicious beef brisket. Though the abundance of food trucks isn't as high as in San Francisco, Billings still offers some popular street treats like hot dogs, with venues popping up in local events. While the city isn't as vegan-friendly as San Francisco, you're still able to find satisfying vegan options at places like Good Earth Market, where a flavorful falafel wrap is highly recommended.

San Francisco vs. Billings Restaurant Comparison

Your gastronomic journey is an integral part of settling into a new home. This restaurant comparison between San Francisco and Billings provides you with a culinary guide that connects your past favorites with your future delectable discoveries.

San FranciscoBillingsWhat You'll Love
Zuni CaféValley Gold CaféFarm-to-table focus with rustic charm
Tartine BakeryStella's Kitchen & BakeryBeloved local bakery known for its fresh pastries
La TaqueriaLos Mayores Tacos & BurritosAuthentic taco spot with vibrant flavors
SaisonWalkers GrillElevated dining experience with a modern twist
Swan Oyster DepotMontana's Rib & Chop HouseSeafood offerings complement their hearty menu
TackoLa MunchtacoCasual spot with a flair for street tacos
Slanted DoorPints & UnionFusion flavors meet community comfort
Bi-Rite CreameryThe Big Dipper Ice Cream Shop—Crafted ice creams with local ingredientsThe Big Dipper Ice Cream Shop—Crafted ice creams with local ingredients
NopaBar GernikaNight owl's haven for late-night dining
BenuJuliana's—Fine dining with a passion for innovationJuliana's—Fine dining with a passion for innovation

For lovers of artisanal bread and pastries, the transition from San Francisco's Tartine Bakery to Billings' Stella's Kitchen & Bakery ensures that your cravings for perfectly baked goods are met with satisfaction. Stella's offers a welcoming atmosphere that draws you in with the same warm aromas and attention to quality. If your fine dining adventures began at the sophisticated Saison, rest assured that a visit to Walker’s Grill in Billings will delight you with its blend of inventive dishes and modern ambience. And when it comes to tacos, your taste buds will be right at home with La Munchtaco's creative menu, ensuring that your quest for vibrant street food continues uninterrupted.

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San Francisco vs. Billings Real Estate & Living Facts

When considering a move, one must evaluate real estate in the destination city. Understanding the housing dynamics between San Francisco and Billings is crucial for a smooth transition. These insights help in making informed decisions about your potential new home environment.

San Francisco
Billings
Typical Architecture Style
Victorian
Ranch
Walkability
👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability
🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle
🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing
High Ceilings
Large Yards

San Francisco's real estate market is characterized by breathtaking Victorian architecture and a high urban lifestyle score of 10, making it ideal for those who thrive in bustling environments. The city also boasts an impressive walkability score —perfect for those who enjoy exploring neighborhoods on foot. In contrast, Billings offers a more laid-back lifestyle with spacious ranch-style homes offering large yards for outdoor enthusiasts. The affordability of housing in Billings, with a median home price significantly lower than San Francisco's, presents an appealing option for many. Consider the implications of these factors based on your lifestyle preferences and priorities.

Pet-friendly neighborhoods background image

Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Billings, MT

1. West End : You will find plenty of green spaces and dog parks for furry friends to run and play.

2. Heights : Your pets will love the spacious yards and pet-friendly walking trails.

3. Downtown Billings : You can enjoy pet-friendly cafes and shops in a vibrant, walkable area.

San Francisco vs. Billings Weather Considerations

Moving from San Francisco to Billings involves more than just getting from one place to another. Understanding the weather in both locations ensures you're prepared for the different climate experiences awaiting you.

San Francisco
Billings
Days of Sunshine per Year
☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. Annual Humidity
💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦
💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦
Avg. UV Index
🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Natural Disasters
Earthquakes
Tornadoes, Barley
Air Quality
Moderate
Good
Summer icon

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

67/55
88/54
Winter icon

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

57/46
37/18


Rainfall icon

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

23
14
Snowfall icon

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

0
57


As you transition to life in Billings, expect more extreme temperature variations with hot summers and much colder winters compared to San Francisco's milder climate. The significantly increased snowfall in Billings will be a notable change, along with more pronounced seasonal shifts. While San Francisco has moderate air quality, Billings often enjoys cleaner air and more open spaces. However, expect a decrease in the number of sunny days as you move inland. Adjusting to these new weather patterns will be a key part of your relocation experience.

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Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from San Francisco to Billings

If you're contemplating a move from San Francisco, CA to Billings, MT, understanding the financial implications is crucial. By comparing city-specific data, you can gauge how your budget and lifestyle might change. Here's a look at how key financial elements in San Francisco and Billings differ.

San Francisco
Billings
Avg. Household Income
$121,826
$65,818
Cost of Living Index
164
State Income Tax
9.3%
6.9%
Avg. Property Tax
0.65%
0.83%
Avg. Sales Tax
8.63%
0%
Top 3 Industries
Tech, Finance, Healthcare
Energy, Agriculture, Healthcare
Affluence
High
Moderate
Poverty
Low
Moderate
Homelessness
High
Low

When moving from San Francisco to Billings, one of the most significant shifts you'll notice is the difference in the cost of living. San Francisco’s cost of living index is more than double that of Billings, indicating that expenses for housing, food, and other essentials are substantially higher. On the tax front, Montana's absence of a sales tax can be a financial relief compared to California's. The industry landscape changes too; while San Francisco thrives on tech and finance, Billings offers opportunities in energy and agriculture. Although the average income in San Francisco is significantly higher, the lower cost in Billings makes stretching your dollar easier.

San Francisco vs. Billings Political & Religious Comparison

This comparison offers a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents, highlighting the differences between two distinct cities. San Francisco & Billings politics contrast each other in various ways, providing valuable insights for those considering a move.

San Francisco
Billings
Political Make-up
Liberal-leaning
Conservative-leaning
Local Politics
<a href="https://sfgov.org/">City Hall Policies</a>
County Commission
Religion
Diverse, with less emphasis on organized religion
Predominantly Christian

Moving from San Francisco to Billings means experiencing a shift in political and cultural landscapes. San Francisco's liberal politics are reflected in its progressive policies and diverse local governance, symbolized by its active City Hall where many landmark policies are born. In contrast, Billings leans more conservative, with local politics often driven by traditional values, influencing how community issues are approached at the County Commission level. The religious atmosphere also differs, with San Francisco boasting a wide array of beliefs and spiritual practices compared to Billings' predominantly Christian community, where churches often serve as significant social hubs.

San Francisco vs. Billings Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

Moving from San Francisco, CA to Billings, MT presents a variety of changes, particularly when it comes to how you'll navigate your daily routine. This guide provides a comparison of the traffic and transportation options between San Francisco & Billings , helping you better understand what the daily commute and traffic is like in these two diverse cities.

San Francisco
Billings
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)
34
20
Traffic Congestion
8 out of 10
2 out of 10
Availability of Public Transit
9 out of 10
3 out of 10
Can you get by without car?
Yes, easily.
Not easily.

In San Francisco, the extensive public transit network makes it feasible to live without a car, thanks to options like BART and Muni. However, prepare yourself for dealing with higher traffic congestion and longer commute times, making efficient planning key. On the other hand, while Billings may lack extensive transit options, its lower traffic congestion contributes to significantly shorter commute times. This might mean adjusting to the necessity of a car, but take advantage of the reduced traffic for quicker trips throughout the city, exploring places like the Yellowstone County Museum or Pictograph Cave State Park.

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