Best San Francisco to Cincinnati Movers + Moving Guide

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If you're moving from San Francisco to Cincinnati and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 2,395 mile move from California to Ohio go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 25 San Francisco to Cincinnati 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 - $9,000 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in San Francisco compared to Cincinnati. 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 Cincinnati 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
4Sebastian Moving SW Ohio9.289.56Authorized For HHG
5Robinson Relocations9.249.42Authorized For HHG
Phone (800) 787-5428

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

Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 2,395 miles from San Francisco, CA to Cincinnati, OH will cost on average $3,818 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom San Francisco to Cincinnati move is roughly $9,223. 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$2,560300 ft³$8.53
1 Bedroom$3,818450 ft³$8.48
2 Bedrooms$6,326750 ft³$8.43
3 Bedrooms$9,2231100 ft³$8.38
4 Bedrooms$13,3351600 ft³$8.33
5+ Bedrooms$14,9121800 ft³$8.28
*Please note: These California to Ohio moving prices are rough approximations based upon nationwide data as well as local and statewide data from California & Ohio. 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 OH mover.
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Cincinnati to San Francisco guide.

Compare the 5 Best San Francisco to Cincinnati 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
Sebastian Moving SW Ohio Logo

Sebastian Moving SW Ohio

Exceptional9.28/10
based on 545+ data points

8672 US-22

Sabina, OH, 45169

About Sebastian Moving SW Ohio

Let the experts at Sebastian Moving SW Ohio take care of your next home or office move. This top-rated moving company...

Services

  • Full Service Moves in South West Ohio
  • Packing and Unpacking
  • Loading & Unloading

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3491560 / 1243683

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans1
Registered Drivers3
Total Annual Miles Moved20,000 (2022)
View Full Review
4
Robinson Relocations Logo

Robinson Relocations

Exceptional
claimed company icon
9.24/10
based on 757+ data points

6320 Madison Rd

Cincinnati, OH, 45227

About Robinson Relocations

Robinson Relocations is a professional moving company providing services in Cincinnati, OH, and Tampa, FL, with a priority to exceed clients'...

Services

  • Local Moving
  • Long Distance Moving
  • Residential Moving

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3320340 / 1056379

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans5
Registered Drivers4
Total Annual Miles Moved50,000 (2023)
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. Cincinnati Neighborhood Comparison

Moving to a new city can be a thrilling yet daunting experience. To help you familiarize yourself with Cincinnati, OH, let's use your current knowledge of San Francisco, CA neighborhoods as a baseline. By comparing popular neighborhoods from both cities, you can easily find a new area in Cincinnati that feels like home.

San FranciscoCincinnatiHow They're Similar
Marina DistrictHyde ParkVibrant, family-friendly vibe
Hayes ValleyOver-the-RhineArtsy, with boutique shops
Mission DistrictNorthsideDiverse, rich in culture
Pacific HeightsMount LookoutUpscale, with stunning views
SoMa (South of Market)DowntownUrban living, tech hub
Nob HillCliftonHistoric, university presence
Noe ValleyOakleyFamily-oriented, peaceful
The CastroNorth AvondaleLGBT-friendly, inclusive community
Haight-AshburyClifton Gaslight DistrictBohemian, eclectic spirit
Russian HillEast Walnut HillsChic, with scenic beauty

Exploring neighborhoods like Hyde Park in Cincinnati can remind San Francisco residents of the Marina District, with its lively atmosphere and family-oriented activities. Hyde Park's square offers an array of local shops, much like those found in the Marina. Over-the-Rhine (OTR) mirrors Hayes Valley's artistic flair and boutique shopping experience, complete with unique dining options such as the historic Findlay Market. On the other hand, Mount Lookout in Cincinnati shares Pacific Heights' penchant for upscale living and offers breathtaking views, notably from the city's beloved Ault Park. By drawing parallels between these neighborhoods, you can discover a new community that resonates with your lifestyle preferences and interests, easing the transition to your new home in Cincinnati.

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Pros and Cons of Moving from San Francisco to Cincinnati

Moving from one city to another always involves weighing the bad against the good. This comparison aims to give you an honest reflection of the pros and cons of relocating from San Francisco, CA to Cincinnati, OH. By examining these contrasts side by side, you're better equipped to make an informed decision that suits your lifestyle and preferences.

CONs
PROs
San Francisco, CA iconSan Francisco, CA
  • High cost of living
  • Dense population
  • Frequent fog
  • Limited parking
Cincinnati, OH iconCincinnati, OH
  • More affordable
  • Less crowded
  • Sunnier days
  • Easier parking
Cincinnati, OH iconCincinnati, OH
  • Less tech jobs
  • Smaller cultural scene
  • Fewer landmarks
  • No beach access
San Francisco, CA iconSan Francisco, CA
  • Tech hub
  • Vibrant culture
  • Iconic landmarks
  • Beach access

Moving from San Francisco to Cincinnati allows you to enjoy a dramatically more affordable lifestyle, which can translate to living in larger spaces or having extra income for leisure and savings. Cincinnati is less crowded, offering quieter neighborhoods and lush parks like the extensive Eden Park, which features the beautiful Krohn Conservatory. The city also boasts a rich cultural scene centered around areas like Over-the-Rhine, home to unique shops, breweries, and eateries such as Findlay Market, one of the oldest public markets in the country. While the tech job market may not be as vast as in San Francisco, Cincinnati is fostering its own growing tech industry, alongside a vibrant arts scene highlighted by institutions like the Cincinnati Art Museum. Move over fog and crowded streets; sunny days and a close-knit community vibe await you in your new city.

San Francisco vs. Cincinnati Food Guide

Understanding the local cuisine is a pivotal part of immersing yourself in the culture and lifestyle of a new city. Through this comparison, we aim to give you a glimpse into what dining out might look like as you transition from the local cuisine between San Francisco & Cincinnati . This will help you better grasp the food scene unfolding in your new home.

San Francisco
Cincinnati
Most iconic local food item
Sourdough Bread
Cincinnati Chili
Most popular meat dish
Mission Burrito
Goetta
Most popular street food item
Food Trucks offerings
Bratwurst
Most popular vegan food
Plant-based Burrito
Vegan Skyline Chili
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
  • Skyline Chili
  • Graeter's Ice Cream
  • Findlay Market
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness
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Abundance of Food Trucks
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Foodie Scene
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Vegan Friendly
🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱
🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

When moving from San Francisco to Cincinnati, you'll notice right away that Cincinnati offers a unique blend of Midwestern and European flavors, most famously showcased in their Cincinnati Chili. Neighborhoods like Over-The-Rhine, known for its historic architecture, provide a picturesque dining backdrop at places like Skyline Chili, where you can try this local delicacy served atop spaghetti or a hot dog. Meanwhile, Findlay Market, a haven for foodies, offers everything from artisan cheeses to craft beers, reflecting Cincinnati's rich food scene and German heritage.

San Francisco vs. Cincinnati Restaurant Comparison

Transitioning from the vibrant culinary scene of San Francisco to Cincinnati doesn't mean leaving all foodie comforts behind. This comparison between San Francisco's top restaurants and Cincinnati's similar spots aims to help new residents find their culinary home-away-from-home . By matching the essence and flavors of what you loved out West, we've put together a chart to guide your gastronomic exploration in your new city.

San FranciscoCincinnatiWhat You'll Love
Zuni CaféBocaElegant dining and sophisticated flavors
Tartine BakeryBlue Oven BakeryArtisan breads and pastries
NopaSottoRustic Italian cuisine with a cozy atmosphere
La TaqueriaGomez SalsaAuthentic tacos in a lively setting
State Bird ProvisionsQuan HapaInnovative Asian cuisine with a twist
The Slanted DoorPho Lang ThangModern Vietnamese dining experience
Mission Chinese FoodMaki Express Ramen ShopBold flavors and creative dishes
Swan Oyster DepotAnchor OTRSeafood and raw bar selections
Foreign CinemaThe Video ArchiveUnique dining and entertainment experience
Tony’s Pizza NapoletanaA TavolaAuthentic Neapolitan pizzas in a warm ambiance

Whether you’re seeking the warm, rustic charm of Italian cuisine or the innovative twists on Asian flavors, the dining scene in Cincinnati offers delightful parallels to San Francisco's rich culinary landscape. For instance, moving from the legendary Tartine Bakery to exploring Blue Oven Bakery allows you to continue indulging in world-class artisan breads and pastries, echoing the emphasis on quality and craftsmanship you've come to love. Similarly, the transition from the iconic Mission Chinese Food to Maki Express Ramen Shop offers an opportunity to delve into creative and boldly flavored dishes that showcase the depth and diversity of Asian cuisine. These handpicked Cincinnati eateries not only mirror the vibrancy and quality of San Francisco’s dining scene but also promise to add a unique Midwestern charm to your gastronomic adventures.

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San Francisco vs. Cincinnati Real Estate & Living Facts

Real estate is one of the most important aspects of a move, especially when considering how different markets can impact your lifestyle and budget. Knowing how the two cities compare can significantly affect your decision. In this comparison, we will look at San Francisco vs. Cincinnati in terms of housing characteristics to better understand what each location has to offer.

San Francisco
Cincinnati
Typical Architecture Style
Victorian & Modern
Italianate & Tudor
Walkability
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Bikeability
🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle
🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing
Views, Tech-ready
Family-friendly, Historic charm

The housing landscape in San Francisco and Cincinnati presents a study in contrasts, reflecting the broader differences between the two cities' living conditions and cultural vibes. San Francisco's housing market is notably more expensive, both in terms of purchasing and renting properties, largely due to its status as a tech hub and its limited space for expansion. The city's architecture tends to lean towards historic Victorian homes as well as sleek, modern buildings, catering to a wide array of tastes. Cincinnati, with its more accessible median home prices and rents, offers a different charm; the city is known for its Italianate architecture and family-friendly neighborhoods, making it appealing for those looking for a balance between urban and suburban living. Additionally, while San Francisco ranks high in walkability and urban lifestyle, Cincinnati offers a more laid-back atmosphere, though it is catching up in terms of bikeability and urban perks.

Pet-friendly neighborhoods background image

Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Cincinnati, OH

1. Hyde Park : You'll love the abundance of parks and walking paths where you and your furry friend can enjoy the outdoors together.

2. Over-the-Rhine (OTR) : This lively neighborhood offers plenty of pet-friendly cafes and shops, making it easy for you to include your pets in your daily adventures.

3. Mount Adams : With its scenic views and pet-centric community events, you can spend quality time with your pet amidst the charming, hilly streets.

San Francisco vs. Cincinnati Weather Considerations

When planning a move from one city to another, it's crucial to understand the weather variations you'll experience. This comparison aims to highlight how the climate shifts from San Francisco to Cincinnati, preparing you for what to expect and how to best adapt to your new environment.

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

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

67°F / 53°F
86°F / 63°F
Winter icon

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

57°F / 46°F
39°F / 23°F


Rainfall icon

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

23.65
44.15
Snowfall icon

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

0
22.5


San Francisco's mild climate, characterized by its cool summers and mild winters, contrasts sharply with Cincinnati's. You'll find Cincinnati's summers much hotter and its winters significantly colder, which could be a considerable adjustment. Moreover, the drastic difference in sunshine days—San Francisco having notably more—can affect your daily lifestyle and mood. Cincinnati experiences a greater variety of weather, including more rain and snow, which introduces the need for a more versatile wardrobe and possibly a different approach to outdoor activities. Understanding these differences can help you prepare better for your move.

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

When contemplating a move from San Francisco, CA to Cincinnati, OH, it's crucial to grasp how the financial landscape and cost of living will shift. This comparison will spotlight key monetary considerations, highlighting differences between San Francisco and Cincinnati that could impact your wallet.

San Francisco
Cincinnati
Avg. Household Income
$121,826
$42,733
Cost of Living Index
164
93.8
State Income Tax
13.3 max
4.797 max
Avg. Property Tax
0.73
1.62
Avg. Sales Tax
8.5
7.8
Top 3 Industries
Technology, Finance, Tourism
Manufacturing, Health, Education
Affluence
Very High
Moderate
Poverty
Moderate
Higher
Homelessness
High
Lower

Though the average household income in San Francisco far exceeds that of Cincinnati, the cost of living index in San Francisco is equally substantial, marked at 269 compared to Cincinnati's more moderate 90. This disparity highlights not only the financial adjustments required but also the relative affordability of Cincinnati despite its lower average income. Additionally, while San Francisco boasts a very high affluence level, it also struggles with significant homelessness, a contrast to Cincinnati's lower rates. This comparison underscores the importance of considering broader economic factors beyond personal income, as the overall cost of living, tax rates, and social issues vary significantly between these two cities.

San Francisco vs. Cincinnati Political & Religious Comparison

This comparison of the politics between San Francisco & Cincinnati aims to offer a snapshot of the political and religious landscapes you'll find in each city. It's designed to give you a sense of the community you're leaving behind and what to expect in your new home.

San Francisco
Cincinnati
Political Make-up
Liberal/Democratic
Moderately conservative/Lean Democratic
Local Politics
Highly progressive policies
Mix of conservative and liberal policies
Religion
More secular, diverse religious communities
Larger Christian community, Cathedral Basilica of the Assumption

While San Francisco is known for its liberal stance on political and social issues, Cincinnati boasts a more balanced mix of political beliefs, with a tendency to lean Democratic in recent years. Local politics in Cincinnati engage a broader spectrum of policies, reflecting its diverse population's values. Religion plays a different role in each city's social fabric; San Francisco's residents vary widely in their religious affiliations, making it a melting pot of beliefs. In contrast, Cincinnati has a strong Christian presence, highlighted by landmarks such as the Cathedral Basilica of the Assumption, which is not only a place of worship but also a testament to the city's rich history and cultural heritage.

San Francisco vs. Cincinnati Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

Moving from San Francisco, CA to Cincinnati, OH introduces notable changes in what your daily commute and traffic experiences can be like. This comparison aims to give you insight into the differences in driving and transiting in San Francisco & Cincinnati, setting realistic expectations for your new city life.

San Francisco
Cincinnati
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)
34
24
Traffic Congestion
8 out of 10
4 out of 10
Availability of Public Transit
9 out of 10
6 out of 10
Can you get by without car?
Yes
No

While San Francisco is known for its extensive public transportation system, including the San Francisco Municipal Transportation Agency (SFMTA), making it possible to live without a car, Cincinnati presents a different picture. Although Cincinnati has a public transit system, with services such as the Southwest Ohio Regional Transit Authority (SORTA), the coverage and frequency might not match what you've come to expect in San Francisco. This fact, coupled with Cincinnati's significantly lower traffic congestion scores, suggests that while driving in Cincinnati might be smoother, a personal vehicle becomes more of a necessity to navigate the city efficiently.

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