Best Sunnyvale to Seattle Movers + Moving Guide

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If you're moving from Sunnyvale to Seattle and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 840 mile move from California to Washington go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 34 Sunnyvale to Seattle 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 Seattle Moves & More), how much the move costs (approximately $1,500 - $6,000 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Sunnyvale compared to Seattle. 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 Sunnyvale to Seattle Moving Companies

Company
Score Question
Affordability IndexLicense
1Seattle Moves & More9.569.39Authorized For HHG
2D&L Movers9.359.36Active
3John Volken Academy Movers9.349.65Authorized For HHG
4Careful Movers9.318.63Authorized For HHG
5White Red Moving & Storage9.109.34Authorized For Property
Phone (800) 787-5428

How Much Does it Cost to Move from Sunnyvale to Seattle?

Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 840 miles from Sunnyvale, CA to Seattle, WA will cost on average $2,496 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Sunnyvale to Seattle move is roughly $5,990. 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$1,679300 ft³$5.60
1 Bedroom$2,496450 ft³$5.55
2 Bedrooms$4,122750 ft³$5.50
3 Bedrooms$5,9901100 ft³$5.45
4 Bedrooms$8,6331600 ft³$5.40
5+ Bedrooms$9,6221800 ft³$5.35
*Please note: These California to Washington moving prices are rough approximations based upon nationwide data as well as local and statewide data from California & Washington. 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 WA mover.
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Seattle to Sunnyvale guide.

Compare the 5 Best Sunnyvale to Seattle Movers

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

S

Seattle Moves & More

Exceptional9.56/10
based on 1,099+ data points

4601 Shilshole Ave NW

Seattle, WA, 98107

About Seattle Moves & More

Based in Seattle, Seattle Moves & More is a licensed, insured, and premier moving company in Seattle, WA, known for its...

Services

  • Residential & Commercial Moving
  • Long-Distance Relocation
  • Furniture Packing and Unpacking

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2962927 / 5796

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans1
Registered Drivers5
Total Annual Miles Moved31,000 (2023)
View Full Review
1
D&L Movers Logo

D&L Movers

Exceptional9.35/10
based on 1,583+ data points

1563 Bahama Way

Campbell, CA, 95008

About D&L Movers

Founded by Drew Sanchez and Leo Cervantes, D&L Movers is a local moving company that offers full-service relocations for homes and...

Services

  • Cheap moving
  • Local moving
  • Long-distance moving

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 7/23/2023)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2706648 / -

Active

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans3
Registered Drivers5
Total Annual Miles Moved20,000 (2017)
View Full Review
2
John Volken Academy Movers Logo

John Volken Academy Movers

Exceptional9.34/10
based on 1,485+ data points

921 Central Ave N

Kent, WA, 98032

About John Volken Academy Movers

John Volken Academy Movers is a not-for-profit moving company that helps people move across Western and Eastern Washington. This local business...

Services

  • Local Moving
  • Commercial Moving
  • Residential Moving

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2261169 / 1666977

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans6
Registered Drivers8
Total Annual Miles Moved200 (2015)
View Full Review
3
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
4
White Red Moving & Storage Logo

White Red Moving & Storage

Exceptional9.10/10
based on 481+ data points

Menlo Park, CA, 94025

About White Red Moving & Storage

Based in Sunnyvale, California, White Red Moving & Storage has been providing local and long-distance moving services since 2010. As a...

Services

  • Local Moving Service
  • Long Distance Moving Service
  • Packing Service

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3707629 / 1299933

Authorized For Property

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans1
Registered Drivers2
Total Annual Miles Moved1 (2021)
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.

Sunnyvale vs. Seattle Neighborhood Comparison

Moving can feel like a leap into the unknown, especially when it's between cities as distinct as Sunnyvale, CA, and Seattle, WA. To ease the transition, we've mapped out a comparison of the local neighborhoods between Sunnyvale, CA & Seattle, WA . Using Sunnyvale neighborhoods you may already love as a baseline, find your new favorite spot in Seattle with similar vibes, attractions, and community feel.

SunnyvaleSeattleHow They're Similar
Sunnyvale DowntownBelltownVibrant nightlife, dining
SnailGreenwoodEclectic, family-friendly
BirdlandWallingfordResidential, near Lake Union
The Heritage DistrictBallardRich history, nightlife
CherryhillQueen AnneQuiet, picturesque views
PonderosaPhinney RidgeArtsy, community-centric
LakewoodGreen LakeLeisure activities, outdoors
SunnyArtsFremontArtsy, diverse community
Wrightmont CornersMadison ParkUpscale, by the water
Panama ParkColumbia CityHistoric, cultural diversity

If you're drawn to the vibrant nightlife and dining options of Sunnyvale Downtown, Belltown in Seattle will captivate you with its energetic atmosphere, hosting a variety of restaurants and bars like Purple Café and Wine Bar. For lovers of Sunnyvale's Birdland and its residential charm near tech hubs, Wallingford offers a similar allure with cozy cafes like Tilikum Place Cafe and proximity to Lake Union. Meanwhile, Cherryhill residents seeking quiet streets and spectacular views will find solace and scenic beauty in Queen Anne. Not only does it showcase panoramic views of Seattle, but it's also home to the iconic Kerry Park, perfect for picture-perfect moments and leisurely strolls.

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Things to Do in Seattle

  • Visit the Space Needle for iconic city views.
  • Explore Pike Place Market's unique shops.
  • Relax at Green Lake Park.
  • Discover art at Seattle Art Museum.
  • Enjoy a ferry ride to Bainbridge Island.
  • Watch a Mariners baseball game at T-Mobile Park.
  • Hike in Mount Rainier National Park.

Ready to start your move?

Pros and Cons of Moving from Sunnyvale to Seattle

Moving from one city to another brings a mix of new opportunities and challenges. This comparison aims to offer an honest reflection of the good and the bad aspects of relocating from Sunnyvale, CA to Seattle, WA . By examining the pros and cons directly, you can better prepare for the changes ahead and make the most of your new living situation.

CONs
PROs
Sunnyvale, CA iconSunnyvale, CA
  • High cost of living
  • Heavy traffic
  • Limited rainfall
  • Fewer cultural venues
Seattle, WA iconSeattle, WA
  • More affordable housing
  • Efficient public transit
  • Lush greenery
  • Vibrant arts scene
Seattle, WA iconSeattle, WA
  • More rainy days
  • Less tech-focused
  • Less outdoor variety
  • Fewer international cuisines
Sunnyvale, CA iconSunnyvale, CA
  • Sunny weather
  • Proximity to tech jobs
  • Outdoor activities
  • Diverse food options

While Seattle, WA may have more rainy days than Sunnyvale, CA, it's also home to stunning landscapes and green spaces like the iconic Green Lake Park and the expansive Discovery Park. The vibrant arts scene in Seattle is embodied in places like the Seattle Art Museum and the eclectic performances at the Paramount Theatre. Moreover, while Sunnyvale is at the heart of Silicon Valley's tech boom, Seattle offers its own robust tech industry with a slightly less saturated employment market, providing ample opportunities without the intense competition of the Bay Area.

Sunnyvale vs. Seattle Food Guide

Food is a vital element that reflects the cultural vibrancy and lifestyle of any area. As you consider moving, understanding the food scene is crucial. Hence, we're here to aid your transition by providing a comparison of the local cuisine between Sunnyvale & Seattle — two cities rich in culinary diversity. This will help you get a taste of what each city offers.

Sunnyvale
Seattle
Most iconic local food item
Artichoke Soup
Pacific Northwest Seafood
Most popular meat dish
Tri-tip BBQ
Salmon
Most popular street food item
Tacos
Hot Dogs
Most popular vegan food
Avocado Toast
Quinoa Salad
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
  • DishDash
  • Falafel STOP
  • Larry's Chilli Dog
  • Canlis
  • The Pink Door
  • Ray's Boathouse
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness
💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
Abundance of Food Trucks
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Foodie Scene
🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly
🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱
🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

In Sunnyvale, the artichoke soup at local bistros reflects the region's agricultural bounty, with a nod to the vast artichoke fields in nearby areas. On the other hand, Seattle proudly boasts its Pacific Northwest seafood, with salmon being a fundamental part of the culinary landscape. Seattle's iconic establishments like Canlis and The Pink Door in neighborhoods such as Belltown and Pike Place Market feature both innovative and traditional dishes showcasing the best of local seafood. In contrast, Sunnyvale delights with a mix of culinary influences, visible in places like DishDash, which offers a taste of Mediterranean flavors right at the heart of Silicon Valley. Both cities cater well to health-conscious and vegan diners, but Seattle leads slightly in terms of vegan options and overall foodie scene ratings, reflecting its diverse and abundant culinary offerings.

Sunnyvale vs. Seattle Restaurant Comparison

Moving to a new city is an adventure, especially when it comes to discovering culinary delights. Food is a pivotal element in making anywhere feel like home. This restaurant comparison between Sunnyvale and Seattle is crafted to help you find your new favorite spots, using familiar tastes from your current hometown as a compass. Let's dive into the flavors that define these cities.

SunnyvaleSeattleWhat You'll Love
DishdashCafé MunirLebanese cuisine with a similar dedication to authentic flavors
Madras CafeTravelers Thali HouseOffers a comparable South Indian dining experience
Murphy's LawThe IrishmenCaptures the same Irish pub vibe with a great selection of beers
Armadillo Willy's BBQJack's BBQTexas-style barbecue that mirrors the smoky flavors and hearty portions
PhoEverPho Bac Sup ShopRenowned for its authentic pho that rivals any bowl in Sunnyvale
Falafel STOPMr. GyrosMiddle Eastern eats where the falafel is just as crispy and flavorful
In-N-Out BurgerDick's Drive-InIconic burger spot with a cult following for its simplicity and taste
Philz CoffeeSeattle Coffee WorksA coffee haven that matches Philz's passion for meticulously crafted brews
ChelokababiRumi RestaurantOffers Persian dishes with a focus on quality and traditional cooking techniques
Himalayan KitchenYeti BarBrings the Himalayas to Seattle with its authentic flavors and warm, inviting atmosphere

For a taste of the Middle East that reminds you of Sunnyvale's Dishdash, Café Munir in Seattle offers a cozy atmosphere with a menu full of Lebanese delights. Similarly, if you're missing the South Indian flavors from Madras Cafe, Travelers Thali House serves up a thali that's as colorful and flavorful as what you're used to. For BBQ aficionados, Jack's BBQ in Seattle stands out with its authentic Texas-style barbecue, promising a meaty feast that's as satisfying and smoky as Armadillo Willy's BBQ back in Sunnyvale. Whether you're craving the comfort of a familiar cup of coffee or the adventurous flavors of distant lands, these Seattle establishments bring the essence of your Sunnyvale favorites closer to your new home.

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Ready to start your move?

Sunnyvale vs. Seattle Real Estate & Living Facts

When making the move between cities, understanding the real estate landscape is crucial. This comparison aims to highlight how Sunnyvale, CA and Seattle, WA match up in various housing aspects, providing a clearer picture for your decision-making process.

Sunnyvale
Seattle
Typical Architecture Style
Modern and Ranch
Contemporary and Craftsman
Walkability
👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability
🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle
🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing
Proximity to tech hubs, Solar panels
Green spaces, Waterfront views

While Sunnyvale and Seattle both boast vibrant tech scenes, their real estate markets reveal distinct lifestyles. Sunnyvale's homes often highlight proximity to Silicon Valley's tech giants and modern amenities like solar panels, reflecting its innovation-driven culture. In contrast, Seattle's real estate emphasizes the city's natural charm, with many listings featuring green spaces and waterfront views, a nod to the city's lush, Pacific Northwest landscape. Seattle's slightly higher walkability and bikeability scores also indicate a more urban lifestyle, potentially offering you a more active and community-oriented living experience compared to Sunnyvale's suburban feel.

Pet-friendly neighborhoods background image

Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Seattle, WA

1. Ballard: You'll find numerous parks and walking trails, as well as pet-friendly shops and cafes where your furry friend is always welcome.

2. Green Lake: This neighborhood is home to the scenic Green Lake Park, perfect for dog walkers with its expansive trails and off-leash areas.

3. Capitol Hill: Known for its vibrant atmosphere, Capitol Hill offers plenty of pet-friendly apartments and a community that embraces four-legged residents.

Sunnyvale vs. Seattle Weather Considerations

Moving from one city to another requires understanding how the weather will change. If you're relocating from Sunnyvale, CA to Seattle, WA, it's essential to compare their weather conditions. This comparison will help you prepare for the differences in climate, ensuring a smoother transition to your new home.

Sunnyvale
Seattle
Days of Sunshine per Year
☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. Annual Humidity
💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦
💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦
Avg. UV Index
🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Natural Disasters
Earthquakes, wildfires
Earthquakes, volcanoes
Air Quality
Good
Moderate
Summer icon

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

82°F / 57°F
75°F / 55°F
Winter icon

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

58°F / 39°F
47°F / 37°F


Rainfall icon

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

15
37
Snowfall icon

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

0
5


When moving from Sunnyvale to Seattle, you'll notice significant differences in weather patterns. Seattle experiences fewer sunny days annually than Sunnyvale and has a cooler climate overall, especially in the summer. Seattle's higher rainfall contributes to its lush green landscapes, a stark contrast to the drier environment of Sunnyvale. While sunny days are more abundant in Sunnyvale, if you're someone who appreciates a milder climate and doesn't mind the rain, Seattle's weather could be more appealing to you. Understanding these variances can help you adapt your lifestyle and wardrobe to better suit your new home.

Ready to start your move?

Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Sunnyvale to Seattle

When planning a move from Sunnyvale, CA to Seattle, WA , it's crucial to understand the financial implications of such a transition. This comparison aims to illuminate the differences in cost of living , taxation , and economic climate between these two dynamic cities.

Sunnyvale
Seattle
Avg. Household Income
$156,059
$110,781
Cost of Living Index
136.4
121.4
State Income Tax
13.3
0
Avg. Property Tax
0.74
0.93
Avg. Sales Tax
9.25
10.1
Top 3 Industries
Technology, Manufacturing, Retail
Technology, Aerospace, Healthcare
Affluence
Very high
High
Poverty
Low
Moderate
Homelessness
Moderate
High

In comparing Sunnyvale and Seattle, it's evident that despite Sunnyvale's significantly higher average household income and affluence, both cities have unique financial landscapes that could influence your decision to move. Seattle's absence of state income tax offers a unique advantage, potentially offsetting its higher sales and property taxes compared to Sunnyvale. However, the cost of living index in Sunnyvale is substantially higher, reflecting the expensive real estate and lifestyle of the Silicon Valley area. Furthermore, Seattle's prominent industries, including aerospace and healthcare, provide diverse job opportunities beyond the tech-dominated market of Sunnyvale. These financial and economic dynamics are critical to consider for anyone planning a move between these two cities.

Sunnyvale vs. Seattle Political & Religious Comparison

Moving from Sunnyvale, CA to Seattle, WA? Here's a quick, at-a-glance snapshot to understand the differences in the political and religious makeup of your current versus future home. This guide aims to boldly compare the politics and religion between Sunnyvale & Seattle, providing insights into the communities you'll be interacting with.

Sunnyvale
Seattle
Political Make-up
Liberal
Very Liberal
Local Politics
Democratic dominance
Democratic stronghold
Religion
Mixed, with significant Asian religions
Less religious overall, with some Christian and Buddhist communities

Both Sunnyvale and Seattle are known for their liberal leanings, but Seattle takes this a step further, often being described as one of the most liberal cities in the United States. This is reflected not only in the widespread support for progressive policies but also in the city's active political engagement and demonstrations. Although both cities showcase Democratic dominance in local politics, Seattle's political scene is particularly vibrant, with a strong focus on issues like environmental sustainability, social justice, and progressive reform. Regarding religion, Sunnyvale displays a diverse religious scene, reflective of its significant Asian population and the influence of Silicon Valley's international community. In contrast, Seattle leans towards being less religious, with notable communities of Christians, Buddhists, and a growing number of people identifying as non-religious. The emphasis in Seattle on inclusivity and diversity can make it a welcoming place for people from a variety of backgrounds and beliefs.

Sunnyvale vs. Seattle Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

Moving from Sunnyvale, CA to Seattle, WA brings many changes, including how you might commute. This comparison will help you better understand the daily commute and traffic, focusing on the differences in traffic and transportation options between Sunnyvale & Seattle. Whether you’re driving or using public transit, this guide will provide insights to prepare for your move.

Sunnyvale
Seattle
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)
25
28
Traffic Congestion
7 out of 10
8 out of 10
Availability of Public Transit
6 out of 10
8 out of 10
Can you get by without car?
Challenging
Yes, with effort

In Sunnyvale, the average commute time tends to be slightly shorter compared to Seattle, but both cities face their own unique challenges with traffic congestion. Public transit in Seattle is more robust, with a higher availability score, making it somewhat easier to navigate the city without a car. In Sunnyvale, while public transit exists, it might not be as convenient or extensive, making car ownership more of a necessity. However, in Seattle, thanks to the broader network of buses, light rail, and ferries, you can more realistically embrace a car-free lifestyle, though it does require some effort and planning.

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