Best Honolulu to San Francisco Movers + Moving Guide
Want help with the heavy lifting?
If you're moving from Honolulu to San Francisco and need first-hand information you can trust to make this move from Hawaii to California go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 11 Honolulu to San Francisco 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 (depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Honolulu compared to San Francisco. 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 Honolulu to San Francisco Moving Companies
Rank | Company | Affordability Index | License | |
---|---|---|---|---|
1 | OCD Moving Services LLC | 9.67 | 9.47 | Authorized For HHG |
2 | Bay - L.A. Express Moving | 9.34 | 9.49 | Authorized For HHG |
3 | Ewa Moving Co. | 8.29 | 8.22 | Authorized For HHG |
4 | Mint Moving and Cleaning Solutions LLC | 7.96 | 7.61 | Authorized For HHG |
5 | Island Movers | 5.92 | 5.95 | Authorized For Property, HHG |


Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from San Francisco to Honolulu guide.
Compare the 5 Best Honolulu to San Francisco 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) |
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) |

Ewa Moving Co.
91-593 Pohakupuna Rd
Ewa Beach, HI, 96706
About Ewa Moving Co.
Ewa Moving Co. is a locally-owned and operated moving company based in Ewa Beach, Hawaii. The company provides residential and commercial...
Services
- Residential moving services in Oahu
- Local moving services in Oahu
- Hourly rate moving services in Oahu
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3786678 / 1601075 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
Registered Trucks/Vans | 6 |
Registered Drivers | 6 |
Total Annual Miles Moved | 50 (2022) |

Mint Moving and Cleaning Solutions LLC
Honolulu, HI, 96825
About Mint Moving and Cleaning Solutions LLC
Mint Moving & Cleaning Solutions LLC is a locally owned and operated business based in Honolulu, HI, offering services throughout all...
Services
- Local Moves
- Long Distance Moves
- Office Moves
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3396143 / 1265966 Authorized For HHG Carrier/Shipper |
Registered Trucks/Vans | 4 |
Registered Drivers | 8 |
Total Annual Miles Moved | 10,000 (2019) |

Island Movers
4397 Lawehana St
Honolulu, HI, 96818
About Island Movers
Multi-awarded Island Movers, Inc. has two locations in Hawaii, including one in Honolulu. The family-owned and operated business has over 60...
Services
- Personal Moves
- Business Moves
- Cheap Moving Services
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 105271 / FF-60965
135534 Authorized For Property, HHG Carrier/Shipper |
Registered Trucks/Vans | 110 |
Registered Drivers | 71 |
Total Annual Miles Moved | 765,803 (2023) |

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.
Honolulu vs. San Francisco Neighborhood Comparison
Are you thinking of moving from Honolulu, HI to San Francisco, CA and wondering how the neighborhoods compare? You're in the right place. This guide provides a detailed comparison of the local neighborhoods between Honolulu, HI & San Francisco, CA to help you find your new favorite spot in an unfamiliar city using what you already know and love.
Honolulu | San Francisco | How They're Similar |
---|---|---|
Manoa | Noe Valley | Family-friendly with a calm atmosphere |
Kakaako | South of Market (SoMa) | Trendy, artsy, and with a vibrant nightlife |
Waikiki | North Beach | Tourist-centric with lively entertainment |
Kaimuki | Inner Sunset | Diverse food scene and relaxed vibe |
Kapolei | Mission Bay | Modern and fast-growing with waterfront views |
Hawaii Kai | Marina District | Upscale residential with waterfront recreation |
Aina Haina | Pacific Heights | Exclusive, with stunning ocean views |
Kahala | Sea Cliff | Affluent with grand homes and ocean views |
Diamond Head | Russian Hill | Upscale, panoramic views, with a rich history |
Palolo | Bernal Heights | Community-centric with a small-town feel |
Understanding the ambiance and offerings of San Francisco's neighborhoods can ease the transition from Honolulu. For example, if you're moving from the serene, family-friendly Manoa, Noe Valley in San Francisco will welcome you with its similarly calm atmosphere, dotted with playgrounds and family-oriented businesses. For the lovers of Kakaako's trendy and artsy vibe, South of Market (SoMa) in San Francisco mirrors this energetic spirit with its modern lofts, art spaces like the Yerba Buena Center, and a bustling nightlife. Similarly, if you enjoyed the beachfront luxury and the leisurely pace of Hawaii Kai, the Marina District will captivate you with its picturesque setting, waterfront parks like the Marina Green, and stylish boutiques on Chestnut Street. San Francisco’s neighborhoods offer a rich tapestry of experiences that echo the much-loved aspects of Honolulu’s communities.
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Honolulu to San Francisco
Moving from one city to another can be a life-changing decision. This comparison between Honolulu, HI, and San Francisco, CA, aims to give you an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of this relocation. Understanding both sides can help in making an informed decision and setting the right expectations.
- High living costs
- Isolation/Distance
- Limited job market
- Humid climate
- More job opportunities
- Rich cultural scene
- Better public transport
- Cooler climate
- Less beach access
- Fast-paced lifestyle
- More fog/cold
- Higher living costs
- Beautiful beaches
- Relaxed lifestyle
- Warm climate
- Rich cultural diversity
The shift from Honolulu's laid-back, beach-oriented lifestyle to San Francisco's tech-heavy, fast-paced environment presents both challenges and opportunities. In San Francisco, you'll encounter iconic landmarks like the Golden Gate Bridge and vibrant neighborhood parks such as Dolores Park. The cultural scene in San Francisco is diverse, with numerous restaurants including the famous Tartine Bakery and entertainment venues like the Warfield Theater. While the cost of living is high in both cities, San Francisco offers a broader job market, especially in the tech industry. However, the change from Honolulu's warm, tropical climate to San Francisco's cooler and foggier weather can be significant. Despite these changes, many find San Francisco's rich urban environment and proximity to other Californian adventure spots like Yosemite National Park to be a worthwhile trade-off.
Honolulu vs. San Francisco Food Guide
Whether you're indulging in the gastronomic delights of your current locale or exploring the flavors of a new city, the local cuisine is a vibrant expression of its culture. In this guide, we'll dive into a comparison of the local cuisine between Honolulu and San Francisco, providing insight into what your taste buds can expect after the move. This will help you get a flavorful preview of your new home.
- Duke's Waikiki
- Alan Wong's
- Highway Inn
- Tartine Bakery
- Swan Oyster Depot
- La Ciccia
In Honolulu, you’ll relish the fresh, island flavors of poke and enjoy local favorites like Spam Musubi, which is particularly popular at 7-Eleven locations across the city. Shave Ice stalls dot the landscape, offering a cool respite on sunny days. Notably, the top-ranking restaurants reflect a blend of traditional Hawaiian cuisine and modern gastronomic innovations, with establishments such as Duke's Waikiki and Alan Wong's providing memorable dining experiences. On the other hand, San Francisco’s culinary scene teems with innovation and diversity. The city is renowned for its sourdough bread and the iconic clam chowder served in a sourdough bowl, especially around Fisherman’s Wharf. The Mission District stands out for its Mexican fare, particularly the Mission Burrito. For vegetarians and vegans, places like Tartine Bakery offer delectable options that cater to a health-conscious demographic, showcasing the city's commitment to accommodating varied dietary preferences.
Honolulu vs. San Francisco Restaurant Comparison
Finding a new favorite dining spot is a crucial part of making a new city feel like home. This comparison chart is designed to help those moving from Honolulu to San Francisco find their culinary counterparts, ensuring the transition is as delicious as it is smooth.
Honolulu | San Francisco | What You'll Love |
---|---|---|
Helena's Hawaiian Food | Liholiho Yacht Club | Both offer a unique take on Hawaiian-inspired dishes. |
Senia | State Bird Provisions | Creative American cuisine with a focus on seasonal ingredients. |
Marukame Udon | Mensho Tokyo SF | Exceptional Japanese noodle dishes in a casual setting. |
Leonard's Bakery | Mr. Holmes Bakehouse | Known for their unique pastries and iconic treats. |
Roy's Waikiki | Luce | High-end dining experience with a focus on locally-sourced ingredients. |
Ono Seafood | Swan Oyster Depot | Fresh seafood served in a straightforward, classic manner. |
Alan Wong's Honolulu | Michael Mina | Both celebrated for their innovative approach to fine dining. |
Musubi Cafe Iyasume | Onigilly | Offering a variety of authentic and delicious Japanese onigiri. |
Giovanni's Shrimp Truck | Sam's Chowder House | Casual spots for seafood lovers, famous for their shrimp and chowder. |
House Without a Key | The View Lounge | Iconic spots for drinks with a view, though the ambiance might vary. |
Discovering a beloved eatery like Helena's Hawaiian Food in Honolulu that offers a heartwarming Hawaiian culinary experience and then finding Liholiho Yacht Club in San Francisco, which similarly conjures up Hawaiian-induced nostalgia with its inventive dishes, helps ease the transition between cities. In the same vein, the transition from the casual ambiance and delicious dishes of Marukame Udon to the equally revered noodle bowls at Mensho Tokyo SF shows there’s no need to sacrifice your favorite udon experiences upon moving. On the more decadent side, the sweet treats and iconic desserts that have made Leonard's Bakery a must-visit are echoed in Mr. Holmes Bakehouse, where creativity meets tradition in every bite.

Ready to start your move?
Honolulu vs. San Francisco Real Estate & Living Facts
When planning a move, understanding the differences in real estate between Honolulu and San Francisco is crucial. This comparison covers various aspects such as cost, architecture, and lifestyle to inform your decision.
The disparity in the median home prices and rents between Honolulu and San Francisco highlights the more premium cost of living in San Francisco. However, this higher cost often comes with amenities such as greater walkability and bikeability, showcasing San Francisco's urban lifestyle appeal. The architecture in each city reflects its unique history and climate, from the plantations and modern designs highly favored in Honolulu to the iconic Victorian and Edwardian styles prevalent in San Francisco. Potential homebuyers and renters typically seek properties with beautiful views in both cities, though San Francisco listings are also likely to emphasize tech-friendly features reflective of its status as a tech hub.

Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in San Francisco, CA
1. Noe Valley : You'll find this neighborhood is perfect for pets with its abundance of parks and a welcoming community that loves furry companions.
2. Pacific Heights : You and your pets will enjoy panoramic views and long walks in pet-friendly Presidio, which is easily accessible from this upscale neighborhood.
3. Dogpatch : Known for its artistic vibe, this area offers dog parks and pet-friendly establishments making it a great spot for you and your pet to explore.
Honolulu vs. San Francisco Weather Considerations
Moving between locales means understanding their climates. This comparison highlights the vital weather differences between Honolulu and San Francisco . It's key to knowing what to pack and how to prepare for your new environment.
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
While Honolulu enjoys a tropical climate with warm temperatures year-round, San Francisco's weather is milder, with cool and foggy summers. The humidity in San Francisco is higher, a sharp contrast to Honolulu's seaside mugginess. Notably, both cities have their unique natural disaster risks—awareness and preparedness are key. Despite these differences, the number of sunny days and concerns over air quality and seasonal allergies are surprisingly similar, offering a semblance of familiarity amidst change.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Honolulu to San Francisco
When preparing for a move from Honolulu to San Francisco, understanding the financial implications is crucial. This comparison aims to highlight the key financial differences to expect, particularly focusing on Honolulu and San Francisco . From household income to cost of living, this will help you anticipate what your financial situation might look like after the move.
Transitioning from Honolulu to San Francisco involves various financial adjustments. Despite the higher average household income in San Francisco, the city's cost of living index is substantially higher than Honolulu's. This discrepancy indicates that while you might earn more, your expenses could increase significantly as well. Additionally, San Francisco's state income and sales taxes are higher, which could impact your take-home pay and daily expenditures. Understanding these differences is crucial for managing expectations and making informed financial decisions during your move.
Honolulu vs. San Francisco Political & Religious Comparison
Moving from Honolulu to San Francisco offers a dynamic shift in scenery and lifestyle. Equally important is understanding this is a comparison of the politics between Honolulu & San Francisco, alongside religious landscapes, providing a quick glimpse at what to expect from the local population's disposition.
Relocating from Honolulu to San Francisco, you'll transition into a politically liberal landscape, with San Francisco showcasing a deep-seated commitment to progressive values, particularly in housing, homelessness solutions, and environmental sustainability. While both cities are dominantly Democratic, San Francisco's political engagement and activism are remarkably pronounced, mirroring the city's history of social movements. On the religious front, both cities share a diverse religious composition, with notable communities of Catholics and Buddhists. However, San Francisco has a significant portion of residents identifying with no religion, reflecting broader national trends towards secularism. This glimpse into the political and religious ambiance provides a foundation for understanding the cultural and social norms you'll encounter.
Honolulu vs. San Francisco Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Moving from Honolulu, HI, to San Francisco, CA, presents a unique opportunity to compare the daily commute and traffic as well as transportation options between these two vibrant cities. This comparison aims to help you better understand what your daily transit might look like as you transition from the island lifestyle of Honolulu to the urban environment of San Francisco.
While both Honolulu and San Francisco feature unique challenges and advantages in their commuting experiences, understanding the nuances of each can significantly impact your daily life. Honolulu's average commute time is shorter, but traffic congestion is high, making travel times unpredictable. On the other hand, San Francisco, despite having a longer average commute time, boasts a more extensive and reliable public transit system, facilitating an easier life without a personal vehicle. The ability to get by without a car in San Francisco is notably easier thanks to the SFMTA's comprehensive network of buses, light rail, and commuter rail services. However, those moving from Honolulu will find the adjustment to a less car-dependent lifestyle an interesting transition.



Additional Resources
Honolulu Moving Services
Popular Honolulu to California Routes
Popular Moving Resources