Best San Francisco to Austin Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from San Francisco to Austin and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 1,790 mile move from California to Texas go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 26 San Francisco to Austin 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 - $8,000 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in San Francisco compared to Austin. 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 Austin Moving Companies
| Rank | Company | Score  | Affordability Index | License |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | OCD Moving Services LLC | 9.67 | 9.47 | Authorized For HHG |
| 2 | MoverTron Moving | 9.47 | 9.52 | Authorized For HHG |
| 3 | Bay - L.A. Express Moving | 9.34 | 9.49 | Authorized For HHG |
| 4 | Careful Movers | 9.31 | 8.63 | Authorized For HHG |
| 5 | Heavenly Moving and Storage | 9.29 | 9.38 | Authorized For HHG |
(800) 787-5428How Much Does it Cost to Move from San Francisco to Austin?
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 1,790 miles from San Francisco, CA to Austin, TX will cost on average $3,303 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom San Francisco to Austin move is roughly $7,965. 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 | $2,217 | 300 ft³ | $7.39 |
| 1 Bedroom | $3,303 | 450 ft³ | $7.34 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $5,468 | 750 ft³ | $7.29 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $7,965 | 1100 ft³ | $7.24 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $11,506 | 1600 ft³ | $7.19 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $12,854 | 1800 ft³ | $7.14 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Austin to San Francisco guide.
Compare the 5 Best San Francisco to Austin 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) |
MoverTron Moving
Briarcliff, TX, 78669
Services
- Local Moving
- Residential Moving
- Long-Distance Moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 4135479 / 1584479 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 2 |
| Registered Drivers | 2 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | - |
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) |
Heavenly Moving and Storage
This listing has been claimed by Heavenly Moving and Storage9311 N Fm 620
Austin, TX, 78726
About Heavenly Moving and Storage
Heavenly Moving and Storage has been one of Austin’s premier moving companies since 2005. This locally-owned moving company provides high-quality packing...
Services
- Local moving
- Long-distance moving
- Full-service packing
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3429695 / 1110864 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 12 |
| Registered Drivers | 10 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 250,000 (2021) |
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. Austin Neighborhood Comparison
Moving to a new city can be a daunting task, especially when you're not familiar with the local areas. To ease the transition, we're here to help you find your footing by comparing local neighborhoods between San Francisco, CA & Austin, TX . Using your current San Francisco neighborhood as a baseline, we'll match you with a similar neighborhood in Austin, capturing the essence and vibes of what you're accustomed to.
| San Francisco | Austin | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Marina District | South Congress | Vibrant shopping & dining |
| Hayes Valley | East Austin | Eclectic, artsy community |
| Mission District | East Cesar Chavez | Diverse, cultural hub |
| Pacific Heights | Tarrytown | Affluent with historic charm |
| Nob Hill | Clarksville | Classic charm, close to downtown |
| SoMa | Red River District | Energetic nightlife & music |
| Cow Hollow | Hyde Park | Young professionals, boutique shops |
| North Beach | Roseda | Eclectic, with a rich history |
| Sunset District | Travis Heights | Laid-back with nature vibes |
| Richmond District | Lakeway | Suburban, great for families |
If you're someone who enjoys the eclectic and vibrant atmosphere of the Marina District in San Francisco, with its bustling streets filled with diverse shopping and dining options like Marina Times, you'll find a similar vibe in South Congress, Austin. South Congress is known for its unique boutiques, iconic eateries such as Jo's Coffee, and vibrant street life that mirrors the Marina's charm. For those drawn to the artsy community and diverse cultural experiences of Hayes Valley, East Austin will feel like home with its creative murals, innovative food scene, and venues like the Contemporary Austin that showcase cutting-edge art. Those appreciating the historic charm and upscale residences of Pacific Heights might find their match in Tarrytown, Austin, where the allure of affluence meets the serenity of Lake Austin, offering both scenic beauty and architectural elegance.
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from San Francisco to Austin
Considering a move from San Francisco, CA to Austin, TX? This comparison helps weigh the options by honestly reflecting both the advantages and challenges of such a relocation. By examining the cons of living in San Francisco against the pros of moving to Austin and vice versa , you’ll have a clearer understanding of what to expect from this significant life change.
San Francisco, CA- High living costs
- Dense population
- Limited parking
- Frequent fog
- Stressful commute
Austin, TX- More affordable housing
- More space
- Easier parking
- Sunnier days
- Lighter traffic
Austin, TX- No beaches nearby
- Fewer tech opportunities
- Less diverse
- Fewer landmarks
- Lesser-known restaurants
San Francisco, CA- Coastal access
- Tech hub
- Cultural diversity
- Iconic landmarks
- World-class dining
While both cities have their unique charm, each offers a distinctive living experience. In San Francisco, neighborhoods like the SOMA District are known for their vibrant tech scene and bustling markets like the Ferry Building Marketplace, offering a unique blend of culinary delights and artisan goods. Austin, though lacking in coastal access and iconic landmarks like the Golden Gate Bridge, compensates with a lively music scene evident in areas like South Congress and an array of outdoor activities available at Zilker Park. While San Francisco's dining scene includes renowned establishments such as The Slanted Door, Austin boasts its own culinary gems, like Franklin Barbecue, known nationwide. The move from San Francisco to Austin means embracing a different pace of life, characterized by an emphasis on outdoor living, a burgeoning tech scene, and a vibrant cultural landscape that while different, is no less enriching.
San Francisco vs. Austin Food Guide
This is a comparison of the local cuisine between San Francisco & Austin, shining a light on the vibrant food scenes that await you. Whether you're a food enthusiast or simply curious about your new city's culinary offerings, this guide will provide a sneak peek into what your taste buds can expect.
- Tartine Bakery
- Swan Oyster Depot
- Foreign Cinema
- Franklin Barbecue
- Uchi
- La Matta
Exploring the food scene in Austin, you'll quickly come across the city's deep-rooted love for brisket, perfected in smokehouses across the area, with Franklin Barbecue being a cult favorite. The city's streets thrive with an eclectic mix of food trucks, offering everything from classic tacos found in East Austin to inventive vegan options like jackfruit BBQ. For those with a penchant for clean eating and fitness, Austin's bustling scene accommodates with a variety of health-conscious eateries and vegan-friendly menus, ensuring that your dietary preferences are well served. Furthermore, eateries like Uchi and La Matta showcase the culinary diversity that Austin proudly offers, making it a city where every meal can be an adventure.
San Francisco vs. Austin Restaurant Comparison
Food plays a crucial part in making any area feel like home. This comparison aims to ease your transition by matching top restaurants from San Francisco to their Austin equivalents, ensuring you find a new favorite spot in no time. Comparing top restaurants in San Francisco with the closest counterparts in Austin helps create a seamless culinary transition.
| San Francisco | Austin | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Zuni Café | Olamaie | Southern cuisine with an elegant twist |
| Tartine Bakery | Easy Tiger | Exceptional baked goods and a relaxed vibe |
| Nopa | Odd Duck | Farm-to-table dining with an innovative menu |
| La Taqueria | Veracruz All Natural | Authentic Mexican tacos |
| Swan Oyster Depot | Perla's Seafood & Oyster Bar | Fresh seafood and a cozy atmosphere |
| Foreign Cinema | June's All Day | Chic dining with a diverse international menu |
| Bi-Rite Creamery | Lick Honest Ice Creams | Artisanal ice cream with local ingredients |
| The Slanted Door | Elizabeth Street Café | Modern Vietnamese cuisine and French bakery items |
| Tony’s Pizza Napoletana | Bufalina | Neapolitan pizzas cooked in a wood-fired oven |
| Gary Danko | Jeffrey's | Fine dining with an emphasis on steak and elegant ambiance |
Are you seeking a seamless transition in dining experiences as you move from San Francisco to Austin? Then you're in luck. San Francisco's iconic Zuni Café, known for its roasted chicken and rustic charm, finds a soulmate in Austin's Olamaie, where Southern cuisine meets sophistication. Similarly, the move from the sourdough sensations of Tartine Bakery to the bustling baker's paradise of Easy Tiger in Austin ensures that your baked goods cravings are well catered to. And for those who relish the blend of ambiance and fresh seafood, swapping Swan Oyster Depot for Perla's Seafood & Oyster Bar in Austin means you won't miss out on high-quality oysters and seafood dishes, set against a beautiful, relaxed backdrop. These carefully matched eateries offer a taste of familiarity blended with the local flavor of your new city, ensuring a delicious start to your Austin adventure.
Ready to start your move?
San Francisco vs. Austin Real Estate & Living Facts
Real estate is a crucial element when considering a move, making it essential to comprehend how housing in San Francisco, CA, and Austin, TX compares. This comparison aims to shed light on various housing aspects such as cost, architecture, and lifestyle, providing a clearer picture of what to expect in both locations.
While both San Francisco and Austin boast vibrant urban lifestyles, the contrast in living costs and architectural styles is significant. San Francisco's famed Victorian homes and modern condos often come with breathtaking bay views, justifying their steep prices. On the other hand, Austin offers a more affordable housing market, with Craftsman and modern homes that often highlight outdoor living spaces and proximity to nature trails, like those found at the Barton Creek Greenbelt. Additionally, Austin's growing bikeability score reflects the city's investment in bike lanes and trails, making it a welcoming environment for cyclists.
Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Austin, TX
1. South Lamar : You’ll love South Lamar for its numerous pet-friendly apartments and access to the Barton Creek Greenbelt for outdoor adventures.
2. Mueller : You and your pet can enjoy long walks in the expansive parks, and you'll find many businesses in the area that welcome pets.
3. Zilker : Zilker is a haven for pet owners with its proximity to Zilker Park, where you can enjoy leash-free spaces and pet-friendly events.
San Francisco vs. Austin Weather Considerations
When considering a move from San Francisco, CA to Austin, TX, it's essential to understand how the weather differs in these cities. This comparison aims to highlight the key differences in climate and weather patterns between San Francisco and Austin, providing you with a clear picture of what to expect in your new home.
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Moving from the mild, moderate climate of San Francisco to Austin's significantly warmer and more humid environment represents a substantial change. In Austin, the summer months bring high temperatures that can reach the mid-90s, coupled with higher UV index levels than you're accustomed to in San Francisco. This necessitates a more diligent approach to sun protection. Furthermore, Austin's propensity for flash floods and tornadoes marks a notable shift from the earthquake-prone San Francisco, demanding new forms of disaster preparedness. Understanding these differences will help you make the necessary adjustments to your lifestyle and expectations as you settle into your new home.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from San Francisco to Austin
When planning your move from San Francisco to Austin, it’s crucial to unpack how the financial landscape will shift. Understanding the differences in cost of living, taxes, and the economic environment will help you make an informed decision and prepare for your new life.
The gap in average household income between San Francisco and Austin is notable, with San Francisco households earning significantly more. This difference is evened out somewhat by San Francisco's substantially higher cost of living and state income tax. While Austin benefits from a zero percent state income tax, its property taxes are notably higher. These financial factors are crucial when considering employment markets and housing. Each city's unique economic environment—from San Francisco's tech and finance sectors to Austin's tech-driven and diverse economy—reflects its character and the opportunities it offers.
San Francisco vs. Austin Political & Religious Comparison
In this quick guide, we aim to provide a glimpse into the social fabric of your current and future homes. This is a comparison of the politics between San Francisco & Austin, giving you an at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents in both cities.
When moving from San Francisco to Austin, you'll find that both cities share a liberal political leaning, although Austin displays a unique mix of progressive values with a libertarian streak not as pronounced in San Francisco. San Francisco's local politics have long been known for their very progressive policies, reflecting the city's liberal base. In contrast, Austin's political scene is also progressive but tends to be more open to libertarian concepts, possibly due to Texas's overall political climate. Regarding religion, San Francisco is known for being less religious, with many residents identifying as spiritual but not religious or not practicing any religion. Austin, however, offers a more diverse religious landscape, reflecting a broader spectrum of faiths and practices. This diversity in Austin can be a refreshing change, offering more opportunities for community and cultural engagement.
San Francisco vs. Austin Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Moving from San Francisco, CA, to Austin, TX, introduces a shift in your daily commute and an opportunity to adapt to new traffic patterns and transportation options. This comparison of the traffic and transportation options between San Francisco & Austin will help you navigate these changes smoothly.
In San Francisco, the high public transit rating reflects a robust system comprising buses, metro, and ferries, making it feasible to live without a car. The MUNI and BART systems offer extensive coverage, connecting various neighborhoods efficiently. In contrast, Austin's lower public transit score means a car is almost essential for day-to-day travel, despite initiatives like Capital Metro. However, Austin's average commute time is shorter, partly due to less severe traffic congestion compared to the dense urban environment of San Francisco. Understanding these differences can significantly smooth your transition between these vibrant cities.
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