Best Oakland to Richmond Movers + Moving Guide

Want help with the heavy lifting?

Get a quote now.

If you're moving from Oakland to Richmond and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 2,862 mile move from California to Virginia go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 23 Oakland to Richmond 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 $3,000 - $10,000 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Oakland compared to Richmond. 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 Oakland to Richmond Interstate Movers Featured Image

Best Oakland to Richmond Moving Companies

Company
Score Question
Affordability IndexLicense
1OCD Moving Services LLC9.679.47Authorized For HHG
2Estes SureMove9.229.68Authorized For Property
3On The Fly Moving Guys, LLC - Richmond, VA9.219.58Authorized 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 Richmond?

Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 2,862 miles from Oakland, CA to Richmond, VA will cost on average $4,215 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Oakland to Richmond move is roughly $10,193. 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$2,825300 ft³$9.42
1 Bedroom$4,215450 ft³$9.37
2 Bedrooms$6,988750 ft³$9.32
3 Bedrooms$10,1931100 ft³$9.27
4 Bedrooms$14,7471600 ft³$9.22
5+ Bedrooms$16,5001800 ft³$9.17
*Please note: These California to Virginia moving prices are rough approximations based upon nationwide data as well as local and statewide data from California & Virginia. 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 VA mover.
California iconArrow iconVirginia icon
U-turn icon

Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Richmond to Oakland guide.

Compare the 5 Best Oakland to Richmond 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
Estes SureMove Logo

Estes SureMove

Exceptional9.22/10
based on 1,218+ data points

3901 W Broad St

Richmond, VA, 23230

About Estes SureMove

The most significant cause of stress when moving is the cost. Traditional full-service movers can take care of everything for you,...

Services

  • Home moving
  • Employee relocations
  • Add-ons (such as same-day pickup)

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

121018 / 97275

Authorized For Property

Carrier/Broker

Registered Trucks/Vans9,075
Registered Drivers8,573
Total Annual Miles Moved586,187,648 (2023)
View Full Review
2
On The Fly Moving Guys, LLC - Richmond, VA Logo

On The Fly Moving Guys, LLC - Richmond, VA

Exceptional9.21/10
based on 837+ data points

424 E Grace St # 92

Richmond, VA, 23219

About On The Fly Moving Guys, LLC - Richmond, VA

On The Fly Moving Guys, LLC is a family-owned and operated moving company based in Richmond, VA. They provide local and...

Services

  • Local Moving
  • Moving Helpers
  • Packing Services

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3865625 / 1413617

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans4
Registered Drivers7
Total Annual Miles Moved8,000 (2023)
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
Rankings You Can Trust background image
Trust Rankings icon

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. Richmond Neighborhood Comparison

Moving to a new city can be daunting, especially when you're not sure where to lay down roots. To ease your transition from Oakland, CA to Richmond, VA , we've meticulously crafted a comparison of local neighborhoods between both cities. This guide will help you familiarize yourself with an unknown city by leveraging what you know and love about your current surroundings.

OaklandRichmondHow They're Similar
RockridgeThe FanVibrant, with unique dining options and historic homes
MontclairWestover HillsFamily-friendly, surrounded by nature
Piedmont AvenueCarytownBoutique shops and eclectic vibes
TemescalScott's AdditionIndustrial chic, known for breweries and lofts
Jack London SquareShockoe BottomLively waterfront entertainment, history-rich
Grand LakeThe Museum DistrictCultural attractions and trendy eateries
UptownArts DistrictArt scene and nightlife
North OaklandChurch HillHistoric architecture, close-knit community
Dimond DistrictForest HillQuiet, with parks and recreational areas
Lake MerrittByrd ParkPicturesque lake setting, community events

Discovering similarities between Oakland and Richmond's neighborhoods can help make your move feel like less of a leap into the unknown. For instance, if you're drawn to the artsy and vibrant atmosphere of Uptown Oakland, you'll find Richmond's Arts District to be a seamless transition, where the air buzzes with creativity and streets are lined with galleries like the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts. Or perhaps the eclectic shops and eateries along Piedmont Avenue have been your go-to; in that case, Carytown, with its own unique flair and places like the famous Bygones Vintage Clothing, will feel like home. It's these aspects of community character, from the family-friendly parks of Westover Hills echoing Montclair's green spaces to the historic charm of Church Hill mirroring that of North Oakland, that facilitate a smoother transition and empower you to make your new city feel like home.

Things To Do background image

Things to Do in Richmond

  • Explore the historical Richmond National Battlefield Park.
  • Stroll through the lush Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden.
  • View contemporary art at the ICA at VCU.
  • Attend a concert at The National venue.
  • Paddleboarding on James River.
  • Family fun at the Children's Museum of Richmond.
  • Experience the vibrant Downtown Richmond nightlife.

Ready to start your move?

Pros and Cons of Moving from Oakland to Richmond

Moving between cities invites a blend of excitement and apprehension as you navigate the shifts in lifestyle and community. This comparison aims to provide an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of relocating from Oakland, CA to Richmond, VA . By juxtaposing the pros and cons of each city, we hope to offer clarity and insight into your impending move.

CONs
PROs
Oakland, CA iconOakland, CA
  • High Cost of Living
  • Dense Traffic
  • Earthquake Risk
Richmond, VA iconRichmond, VA
  • Lower Housing Costs
  • Less Traffic Congestion
  • Safer Geographical Location
Richmond, VA iconRichmond, VA
  • Smaller Arts Community
  • Fewer Dining Options
  • Humid Summers
Oakland, CA iconOakland, CA
  • Vibrant Arts Scene
  • Diverse Cuisine
  • Mild Weather

While Oakland boasts a dynamic arts scene with venues like the Fox Theater and a plethora of street art, Richmond's arts community, though smaller, is intensely passionate and centered around areas like the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts. Dining in Oakland provides an unmatched diversity with establishments such as Ordinaire offering a unique wine experience, but Richmond counters with its own burgeoning food scene highlighted by spots like Sub Rosa Bakery. Lastly, while you might miss Oakland's mild climate, Richmond introduces you to four distinct seasons, offering a warm, albeit humid, summer that ventures into genuinely cold winters. Despite the cons, each city presents unique prospects and challenges, with Richmond providing a welcoming community amidst historic sights and a growing cultural footprint.

Oakland vs. Richmond Food Guide

Understanding the food culture is vital when moving to a new city, as it is a significant aspect of local culture and lifestyle. In this guide, we'll delve into a comparison of the local cuisine between Oakland & Richmond to help you get a taste of what culinary delights await you in your new home.

Oakland
Richmond
Most iconic local food item
Sourdough Bread
Pimento Cheese
Most popular meat dish
BBQ Ribs
Fried Chicken
Most popular street food item
Tacos
Food Trucks Varieties
Most popular vegan food
Jackfruit Tacos
Seitan Wings
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
  • Commis
  • Shakewell
  • Nyum Bai
  • Sally Bell's Kitchen
  • Mama J's
  • Sub Rosa Bakery
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness
💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
Abundance of Food Trucks
🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
Foodie Scene
🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly
🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱
🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

In Oakland, the blend of cultures has given rise to a unique food scene, epitomized by its love for artisan sourdough bread and innovative vegan options like jackfruit tacos, often enjoyed in vibrant neighborhoods such as Temescal. On the other hand, Richmond's charm lies in its deep-rooted Southern flavors and the growing food truck scene offering a myriad of options from classic fried chicken to inventive seitan wings. Wander through the historic Jackson Ward neighborhood to indulge in some of Richmond's most beloved eats at places like Mama J's, witnessing the city's rich culinary heritage and modern twists firsthand.

Oakland vs. Richmond Restaurant Comparison

Finding comfort in a new city often starts with the familiar flavors of home. This restaurant comparison chart Oakland to Richmond is designed to help you discover your new favorite dining spots using the eateries you already love. Whether you're in the mood for a high-end meal or a casual bite, this guide has got you covered.

OaklandRichmondWhat You'll Love
CommisLemaireBoth offer an upscale dining experience with a focus on local, seasonal ingredients.
Burma SuperstarPeter ChangBoth specialize in authentic, bold flavors from their respective Asian cuisines.
Brown Sugar KitchenMama J'sBoth are go-to spots for comfort food, specializing in soul food that feels like home.
ShakewellLongovenBoth restaurants are known for their innovative approach to Mediterranean cuisine and a cozy, inviting atmosphere.
MuaThe RooseveltMua's eclectic, artsy vibe is mirrored in The Roosevelt, along with a menu that pushes culinary boundaries.
Nyum BaiMetzger Bar & ButcheryBoth are celebrated for bringing authentic, less commonly experienced international cuisine to the forefront.
PizzaioloZZQWhile focusing on different cuisines, both are beloved for their mastery of fire, smoke, and artisanal ingredients.
Donut SavantSugar ShackBoth are local favorites for inventive, delicious donuts that command a loyal following.
La Farine BakerySub Rosa BakeryBoth are essential morning stops, offering the highest quality baked goods and a cozy ambiance.
The Cook and Her FarmerRappahannockBoth shine a spotlight on local seafood, offering fresh, sustainably-sourced dishes with a unique twist.

While the atmosphere of Mama J's in Richmond may remind you of Brown Sugar Kitchen in Oakland with its warm embrace of soul food, you'll find that Mama J's lays its own claim to a heartwarming dining experience with classic dishes and a family-friendly vibe. Meanwhile, enthusiasts of a high-end dining experience will find a new home at Lemaire, where the ambiance and meticulously crafted menus are reminiscent of those at Commis, yet uniquely enriched by Virginia's regional flair. And for those mornings when nothing but a perfectly baked pastry will do, Sub Rosa Bakery in Richmond offers a comforting echo of La Farine Bakery’s quality and charm, ensuring that your new city feels every bit as welcoming as the one you're leaving behind.

CTA Banner background image

Ready to start your move?

Oakland vs. Richmond Real Estate & Living Facts

When planning a move, comparing real estate aspects between Oakland, CA and Richmond, VA provides insightful contrasts in living experiences and costs. This chart aims to illuminate these differences to aid in your decision-making process.

Oakland
Richmond
Typical Architecture Style
Modern and Victorian
Colonial and Modern
Walkability
👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability
🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle
🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing
Proximity to San Francisco, views
Historic character, gardens

Moving from Oakland to Richmond will notably change your living experience. Although both cities offer vibrant cultures and histories, the difference in median home prices and monthly rent highlights the more affordable cost of living in Richmond. Richmond's colonial and modern architectural mix, in contrast to Oakland's modern and Victorian landscapes, points towards the cities' unique identities. In Richmond, the emphasis on history and green spaces in real estate listings mirrors its slower-paced, but richly textured urban lifestyle. Conversely, Oakland’s higher walkability and bikeability scores speak to a more dynamic, urban environment, with easy access to the broader San Francisco Bay Area's amenities.

Pet-friendly neighborhoods background image

Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Richmond, VA

1. The Fan District : You'll find plenty of parks and walking paths for exercising your pets as well as pet-friendly cafes where you can relax with your furry friend.

2. Carytown : This vibrant area offers numerous pet-friendly patios and shops, making it a great place to explore with your pet by your side.

3. Church Hill : Enjoy the wide streets and open spaces perfect for dog walks, plus the community is very welcoming to pet owners with several pet-themed events throughout the year.

Oakland vs. Richmond Weather Considerations

When planning a move from one city to another, understanding how the weather differs between your current and future home is essential. This comparison between Oakland and Richmond outlines key climate differences to help you prepare for your relocation. Knowing what to expect can ease the transition, especially when moving from the mild climate of Oakland, CA, to the more varied seasons of Richmond, VA.

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

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

74°F / 56°F
89°F / 71°F
Winter icon

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

58°F / 44°F
48°F / 29°F


Rainfall icon

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

23.5"
43.6"
Snowfall icon

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

0"
10"


Moving from Oakland to Richmond invites you to a broader spectrum of weather experiences. Richmond enjoys a more pronounced range of seasons, with hotter summers and colder winters compared to Oakland's more temperate climate. While Oakland benefits from an abundance of sunshine days, Richmond is richer in rainfall, influencing not just the landscape but possibly your lifestyle, especially if you enjoy outdoor activities. Additionally, Richmond requires readiness for occasional snowfall and different natural disaster considerations, such as hurricanes and tornadoes, compared to Oakland's earthquake readiness. Understanding these differences will help you better prepare for life in Richmond, from wardrobe changes to home maintenance considerations.

Ready to start your move?

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

When considering a move from one city to another, comparing financial aspects like the cost of living, taxes, and income is crucial. This comparison helps you gauge what to expect and how your finances might stretch or shrink. This chart aims to underscore the financial differences between Oakland and Richmond, providing a clear perspective on each city's economic climate.

Oakland
Richmond
Avg. Household Income
$82,236
$51,770
Cost of Living Index
139.1
104.5
State Income Tax
9.3
5.75
Avg. Property Tax
0.73
0.80
Avg. Sales Tax
9.25
5.3
Top 3 Industries
Technology, Healthcare, Education
Government, Finance, Education
Affluence
Moderately affluent
Moderately
Poverty
Moderate
High
Homelessness
Significant
Moderate

Moving from Oakland to Richmond, you'll find a notable difference in financial dynamics. Average household incomes are higher in Oakland, partly due to the concentration of high-paying tech jobs. However, the cost of living, including housing and taxes, is also significantly higher. Richmond offers a lower cost of living and slightly higher property taxes but benefits from a lower state income and sales tax, reflecting a difference in fiscal policy between California and Virginia. While both cities are influential in their own right, their economic profiles are distinct, with Oakland leaning more towards tech and Richmond towards government and finance. Understanding these differences can help you plan your move and anticipate how your financial situation could change.

Oakland vs. Richmond Political & Religious Comparison

This is a comparison of the politics between Oakland & Richmond, designed to provide a quick snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the areas you're moving from and to. This will help you understand the societal landscape of your new home.

Oakland
Richmond
Political Make-up
Primarily Democratic
Lean Democratic
Local Politics
Progressive policies
Moderately progressive
Religion
Diverse, with no single dominant religion
Mixed, but with a stronger presence of Christian denominations

When comparing Oakland and Richmond, you'll find both cities lean Democratic, with Oakland traditionally adhering to more progressive policies. This reflects the broad, inclusive nature of Oakland's politics and contributes to its rich tapestry of cultures and beliefs. Richmond, while also leaning Democratic, tends to lean moderately progressive in comparison. The religious landscape in Oakland is quite diverse, allowing for a wide range of beliefs and practices. Richmond, on the other hand, has a more pronounced Christian presence, though it still fosters a diverse religious community. Taking these factors into account will help you familiarize yourself with the societal norms of Richmond and transition smoothly into your new community.

Oakland vs. Richmond Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

Moving from Oakland, CA to Richmond, VA brings with it changes in your daily commute and traffic experiences. This comparison of traffic and transportation options between Oakland & Richmond will help you better understand what to expect in both cities.

Oakland
Richmond
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)
29.2
24.5
Traffic Congestion
7 out of 10
4 out of 10
Availability of Public Transit
8 out of 10
5 out of 10
Can you get by without a car?
Yes, with some effort
Challenging

While the average commute time in Oakland is slightly longer, the city compensates with better public transit options, rated highly at 8 out of 10. The Bay Area Rapid Transit (BART) and buses cover extensive parts of Oakland, making it feasible to live without a car. In contrast, Richmond's public transit scores lower; although there is a bus system, GRTC Transit System, the spread and frequency might not match the convenience found in Oakland. Traffic congestion is also a noticeable difference, with Oakland experiencing more due to its proximity to other major cities in the Bay Area.

CTA Banner background image
Connect with one of our Certified Moving Partners.
Best Oakland to Richmond Movers Featured Image