Best Oakland to Pittsburgh Movers + Moving Guide

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If you're moving from Oakland to Pittsburgh and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 2,595 mile move from California to Pennsylvania go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 28 Oakland to Pittsburgh 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 - $9,500 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Oakland compared to Pittsburgh. 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 Oakland to Pittsburgh Moving Companies

Company
Score Question
Affordability IndexLicense
1OCD Moving Services LLC9.679.47Authorized For HHG
2Pittsburgh Moving9.649.51Authorized For HHG
3Meta Movers9.159.43Authorized For HHG
4Fairprice Movers8.909.12Authorized For HHG
5Upline Moving8.618.62Authorized For HHG
Phone (800) 787-5428

How Much Does it Cost to Move from Oakland to Pittsburgh?

Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 2,595 miles from Oakland, CA to Pittsburgh, PA will cost on average $3,988 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Oakland to Pittsburgh move is roughly $9,638. 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$2,674300 ft³$8.91
1 Bedroom$3,988450 ft³$8.86
2 Bedrooms$6,609750 ft³$8.81
3 Bedrooms$9,6381100 ft³$8.76
4 Bedrooms$13,9401600 ft³$8.71
5+ Bedrooms$15,5921800 ft³$8.66
*Please note: These California to Pennsylvania moving prices are rough approximations based upon nationwide data as well as local and statewide data from California & Pennsylvania. 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 PA mover.
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Pittsburgh to Oakland guide.

Compare the 5 Best Oakland to Pittsburgh 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
Pittsburgh Moving Logo

Pittsburgh Moving

Exceptional9.64/10
based on 1,121+ data points

5746 Pierce St

Pittsburgh, PA, 15232

About Pittsburgh Moving

Located in the City of Bridges, Pittsburgh Moving is a full-service moving company dedicated to making your local and intrastate relocations...

Services

  • Local move in Pittsburgh
  • Long distance moving in or out of Pittsburgh
  • Residential move

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3901080 / 1437162

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans3
Registered Drivers6
Total Annual Miles Moved100,000 (2023)
View Full Review
2
Meta Movers Logo

Meta Movers

Exceptional9.15/10
based on 310+ data points

13 Holt St

Pittsburgh, PA, 15203

About Meta Movers

Meta Movers is a licensed and insured moving company based in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, with over a decade of experience in the...

Services

  • Full-service local Pittsburgh moves
  • Long distance residential and commercial moves
  • Loading or unloading your truck or pod

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3295834 / 1044452

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans1
Registered Drivers3
Total Annual Miles Moved10,000 (2022)
View Full Review
3
Fairprice Movers Logo

Fairprice Movers

Superb8.90/10
based on 298+ data points

Berkeley, CA, 94720

About Fairprice Movers

Established in 2012, Fairprice Movers is a moving company headquartered in San Jose, California. The company offers a highly personalized moving...

Services

  • Local Moving
  • Long Distance Moving
  • Commercial and Office Moving

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2192738 / 768242

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans5
Registered Drivers3
Total Annual Miles Moved89,000 (2022)
View Full Review
4
Upline Moving Logo

Upline Moving

Fabulous8.61/10
based on 2,924+ data points

30956 San Clemente St

Hayward, CA, 94544

About Upline Moving

For smooth local, statewide, and nationwide residential relocations, Upline Moving is your trusted partner. Based in Hayward, it serves the community...

Services

  • Residential movers
  • Long distance movers
  • Local movers

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

1881933 / 678648

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans7
Registered Drivers5
Total Annual Miles Moved150,000 (2012)
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.

Oakland vs. Pittsburgh Neighborhood Comparison

Moving to a new city can be daunting, especially when leaving behind the familiarity of your local neighborhood. To ease the transition, we’ve created a guide comparing Oakland, CA & Pittsburgh, PA neighborhoods . This will help you find an area in Pittsburgh that best matches the vibe and amenities of your favorite Oakland neighborhood, making the move a little less intimidating.

OaklandPittsburghHow They're Similar
RockridgeShadysideAffluent, walkable shopping
MontclairSquirrel HillFamily friendly, green spaces
PiedmontPoint BreezeHistoric homes, quiet atmosphere
TemescalBloomfieldDiverse, foodie paradise
Jack London SquareStrip DistrictWaterfront dining, vibrant nightlife
Grand LakeLawrencevilleHip, artsy, local businesses
Lake MerrittNorth ShorePicturesque walks, cultural venues
West OaklandEast LibertyRevitalizing, entrepreneurial spirit
Dimond DistrictGreenfieldFamily-oriented, community feel
UptownDowntownUrban living, entertainment hub

If you're captivated by the energetic streets and eclectic mix of restaurants in Temescal, you'll feel right at home in Pittsburgh's Bloomfield neighborhood, where the local cuisine scene thrives with a diverse array of eateries. For those who enjoy leisurely waterfront strolls and alfresco dining in Jack London Square, the Strip District offers a similar ambiance with its unique blend of history and modernity. Its bustling markets and waterfront dining choices, like Cider Yard Market, make it a vibrant place for both day and night activities. On the other hand, if Lake Merritt's scenic beauty and cultural attractions draw you in, Pittsburgh's North Shore with its picturesque parks and proximity to icons like the Carnegie Science Center will captivate your heart in the same way, blending urban life with natural beauty seamlessly.

Ready to start your move?

Pros and Cons of Moving from Oakland to Pittsburgh

Moving across the country brings with it significant lifestyle changes. This comparison aims to provide an honest reflection on the transition from Oakland, CA to Pittsburgh, PA, highlighting the good and the bad. Understanding both sides will help you make an informed decision about your relocation.

CONs
PROs
Oakland, CA iconOakland, CA
  • Higher living costs
  • Dense traffic
  • Less historical charm
Pittsburgh, PA iconPittsburgh, PA
  • Lower living costs
  • Less congested
  • Rich history
Pittsburgh, PA iconPittsburgh, PA
  • Colder winters
  • Smaller cultural scene
  • Fewer dining options
Oakland, CA iconOakland, CA
  • Mild climate
  • Diverse culture
  • Vibrant food scene

While Oakland offers a vibrant and diverse cultural scene with a plethora of dining options in areas like Temescal Alley and Jack London Square, Pittsburgh holds its own with rich historical neighborhoods like the Strip District and cultural centers such as the Andy Warhol Museum. Despite facing colder winters in Pittsburgh, you'll find a city with deep historical roots and a significantly lower cost of living. The change might mean adjusting to a smaller cultural scene, but Pittsburgh's tight-knit communities and flourishing local arts provide a unique charm of their own, offering a mix of traditional and modern dining establishments, such as those found in Lawrenceville or the South Side.

Oakland vs. Pittsburgh Food Guide

Understanding the nuances of local culture is crucial when moving, and this is a comparison of the local cuisine between Oakland & Pittsburgh to help you grasp the culinary landscape of your new city. This comparison will provide a snapshot of what to expect on your plate, from iconic dishes to the vegan scene, and help you blend into the local food culture seamlessly.

Oakland
Pittsburgh
Most iconic local food item
Sourdough Bread
Pierogi
Most popular meat dish
Korean BBQ
Primanti Bros Sandwich
Most popular street food item
Tacos
Polish Sausage
Most popular vegan food
Jackfruit Tacos
Seitan Wings
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
  • Commis
  • Shakewell
  • Pizzaiolo
  • Primanti Bros.
  • Pamela's Diner
  • Pierogi Paradise
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness
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Abundance of Food Trucks
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Foodie Scene
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🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly
🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱
🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

In Oakland, the food scene is vibrant and diverse, reflecting its rich cultural tapestry. Locals and visitors flock to neighborhoods like Temescal for Korean BBQ and Uptown for innovative vegan dishes like jackfruit tacos. Stroll through the lively streets, and you'll encounter a plethora of food trucks offering everything from gourmet bites to traditional street food. Over in Pittsburgh, the Strip District is iconic for its food markets and traditional eateries serving up local favorites like pierogi and Polish sausage. Primanti Bros. in the South Side is a must-visit for anyone craving the quintessential Pittsburgh sandwich experience. Both cities boast an active foodie culture, but with its more temperate climate, Oakland offers year-round outdoor dining and food festivals that are hard to beat.

Oakland vs. Pittsburgh Restaurant Comparison

Finding a culinary haven in a new city can turn a place into a home. This restaurant comparison aims to bridge your move from Oakland to Pittsburgh , guiding you to discover a plethora of flavors reminiscent of your former local favorites. Whether you're in the mood for upscale dining, casual bites, or soulful eats, this guide serves as your culinary compass.

OaklandPittsburghWhat You'll Love
CommisAltiusElevated dining with a focus on creativity and precision.
ShakewellCureUnique, casual dining with a Mediterranean twist.
Brown Sugar KitchenCarmi Soul Food RestaurantAuthentic soul food offering a taste of home.
Wood TavernMoroccan BistroCozy atmosphere with robust flavors, similar to Wood Tavern's approach.
MuaSmallman GalleyHip space with a diverse range of foodie delights.
Fentons CreameryMillie's Homemade Ice CreamA nostalgic trip with homemade flavors.
The Cook and Her FarmerWhitfieldFarm-to-table eats with a rustic charm, echoing The Cook and Her Farmer’s authenticity.
Grand Lake KitchenPamela's DinerIconic dining experience known for its unique approach to classic dishes.
HomeroomMac & Gold TruckRenowned for reinventing a classic comfort food staple.
Dona TomasTakoGourmet tacos with a creative spin, capturing Dona Tomas's essence.

Imagine the rich flavors of Commis, Oakland's own gem for upscale dining, finding a parallel in Pittsburgh's Altius, where every dish is a testament to culinary excellence and creativity. For those craving the unique blend of Mediterranean cuisine mixed with casual vibes akin to Shakewell, Cure in Pittsburgh welcomes you with open arms and inventive dishes. The transition from the iconic soulful breakfasts of Brown Sugar Kitchen doesn't have to be hard when you have Carmi Soul Food Restaurant serving up comfort on a plate. Finally, the artisanal pizzas and diverse craft beer selection at places like Morcilla echo the vibrant energy and depth of flavors you loved back in Oakland. These culinary bridges not only ease your relocation but also enrich your dining experiences in Pittsburgh.

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Ready to start your move?

Oakland vs. Pittsburgh Real Estate & Living Facts

Real estate plays a crucial role in relocating, as understanding how Oakland, CA compares to Pittsburgh, PA , in terms of housing can significantly impact your decision-making process. From costs to lifestyle , this comparison aims to provide key insights.

Oakland
Pittsburgh
Typical Architecture Style
Victorian, Modern
Vintage, Colonial
Walkability
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👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability
🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle
🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing
Views, Eco-friendly
Space, Historic details

When considering the move from Oakland to Pittsburgh, the drastic difference in housing costs stands out, with Pittsburgh's median home price and rent significantly lower than Oakland's. This cost difference provides an opportunity for a more affordable lifestyle in Pittsburgh without sacrificing the urban experience, even though Oakland scores slightly higher in terms of a dynamic city life. The architecture in Pittsburgh offers a glimpse into the city's rich history with its vintage and colonial style homes, contrasting Oakland's mix of Victorian and modern designs. This architectural diversity can influence your living experience, potentially offering a more historical backdrop in Pittsburgh or contemporary vibes in Oakland. Additionally, both cities promote eco-friendly living options, but Oakland listings emphasize views and green features more.

Pet-friendly neighborhoods background image

Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Pittsburgh, PA

1. Shadyside : You’ll find this neighborhood’s walkability and abundance of pet-friendly patios make it an ideal spot for both you and your furry friends.

2. Lawrenceville : With its numerous parks and dog-friendly cafes, Lawrenceville is a perfect place if you’re looking for a vibrant community that welcomes pets.

3. Squirrel Hill : This neighborhood offers a variety of local parks and green spaces, ensuring you have ample opportunities for outdoor activities with your pets.

Oakland vs. Pittsburgh Weather Considerations

When planning a move from one area to another, understanding the weather differences is essential. This comparison will highlight what you can expect when moving from Oakland to Pittsburgh, focusing on weather patterns and conditions. Knowing these variabilities will help you prepare for your new environment.

Oakland
Pittsburgh
Days of Sunshine per Year
☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. Annual Humidity
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💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦
Avg. UV Index
🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Natural Disasters
Earthquakes
Snowstorms, Flooding
Air Quality
Good
Moderate
Summer icon

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

72°F/56°F
82°F/62°F
Winter icon

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

58°F/44°F
35°F/21°F


Rainfall icon

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

23
38
Snowfall icon

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

0
41


Considering the climate differences between Oakland and Pittsburgh, you'll find Pittsburgh experiences more extreme seasonal changes. With colder winters and hotter summers, adaptability in your wardrobe will be necessary. The significant increase in annual snowfall in Pittsburgh, from virtually none in Oakland to an average of 41 inches, underscores the need for readiness in snow-related activities and maintenance. Meanwhile, the stark contrast in the number of sunny days—Oakland enjoying almost 100 more sunny days annually than Pittsburgh—highlights a potential adjustment in outdoor activity planning and vitamin D supplementation strategies.

Ready to start your move?

Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Oakland to Pittsburgh

When planning a move from one location to another, understanding the financial landscape is crucial. This comparison emphasizes the financial implications of moving from Oakland, CA to Pittsburgh, PA , highlighting the cost of living, taxes, and economic environment you're about to enter.

Oakland
Pittsburgh
Avg. Household Income
$82,236
$57,821
Cost of Living Index
139.1
91.5
State Income Tax
9.3
3.07
Avg. Property Tax
0.78
1.58
Avg. Sales Tax
9.25
7
Top 3 Industries
Technology, Healthcare, Trade
Healthcare, Education, Technology
Affluence
Moderately affluent
Varied affluence
Poverty
High
Higher
Homelessness
Significant
Moderate

The table reveals stark differences between Oakland and Pittsburgh, particularly in average household income and cost of living indices. Despite higher incomes in Oakland, the cost of living is more than twice that of Pittsburgh, which can substantially impact your finances. The state income tax in California significantly surpasses that of Pennsylvania, affecting take-home pay. However, Pittsburgh's higher property tax rate might offset this advantage, especially for homeowners. Understanding these nuances will help you plan your finances and lifestyle in your new city.

Oakland vs. Pittsburgh Political & Religious Comparison

This comparison between Oakland & Pittsburgh provides a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents, helping you understand the social fabric of your new home.

Oakland
Pittsburgh
Political Make-up
Leans heavily Democratic
Leans Democratic
Local Politics
Progressive focus on social issues
Moderate with a focus on economic development
Religion
Diverse religious landscape
Historically influenced by Catholicism, with notable diversity

While both Oakland and Pittsburgh lean Democratic, the political atmosphere in Oakland is notably more progressive, especially regarding social issues. Pittsburgh's politics, while still Democratic, have a more moderate stance, often prioritizing economic development. Regarding religion, Oakland offers a highly diverse religious landscape, reflecting its multicultural population. In contrast, Pittsburgh has a strong historical Catholic presence but has grown more religiously diverse over the years. This comparison should help you feel more at home by understanding the communal beliefs and values in your new city.

Oakland vs. Pittsburgh Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

Understanding the daily commute and traffic is crucial when moving, especially in a comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Oakland & Pittsburgh. This guide will give you a clearer picture of what to expect in your new city, allowing for smoother adaptation to local travel habits.

Oakland
Pittsburgh
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)
32
27
Traffic Congestion
7 out of 10
6 out of 10
Availability of Public Transit
8 out of 10
7 out of 10
Can you get by without car?
Yes, but it's challenging
Yes, with some planning

While Oakland offers robust public transit options with the BART system easing commutes across the Bay Area, Pittsburgh's bus and light rail system, managed by Port Authority of Allegheny County, provides comprehensive coverage but with slightly lower frequency. The average commute time in Oakland is marginally higher, reflecting its extensive network that reaches far-flung suburbs. Both cities experience moderate traffic congestion, but Pittsburgh is slightly more navigable during peak hours. Living without a car is feasible in both cities, yet requires careful planning, especially for those residing in neighborhoods with less frequent public transit services.

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