Best Baltimore to Oakland Movers + Moving Guide

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If you're moving from Baltimore to Oakland and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 2,911 mile move from Maryland to California go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 41 Baltimore to Oakland 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 - $10,500 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Baltimore compared to Oakland. 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 Baltimore to Oakland Moving Companies

Company
Score Question
Affordability IndexLicense
1OCD Moving Services LLC9.679.47Authorized For HHG
2Bookstore Movers9.609.55Authorized For HHG
3Treasure Moving Company9.409.41Authorized For HHG
4Johnson Piano Moving9.409.44Authorized For Property
5Fairprice Movers8.909.12Authorized For HHG
Phone (800) 787-5428

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

Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 2,911 miles from Baltimore, MD to Oakland, CA will cost on average $4,257 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Baltimore to Oakland move is roughly $10,295. 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$2,853300 ft³$9.51
1 Bedroom$4,257450 ft³$9.46
2 Bedrooms$7,057750 ft³$9.41
3 Bedrooms$10,2951100 ft³$9.36
4 Bedrooms$14,8951600 ft³$9.31
5+ Bedrooms$16,6671800 ft³$9.26
*Please note: These Maryland to California moving prices are rough approximations based upon nationwide data as well as local and statewide data from Maryland & California. 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 MD to CA mover.
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Oakland to Baltimore guide.

Compare the 5 Best Baltimore to Oakland 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
Bookstore Movers Logo

Bookstore Movers

Exceptional9.60/10
based on 6,057+ data points

5200 46th Ave

Hyattsville, MD, 20781

About Bookstore Movers

Locally owned and operated, Bookstore Movers was founded in 2005 with a dedication to customer service, personalization, and small business values....

Services

  • Local moving
  • Long-distance moving
  • Cross-country moving

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 9/15/2021)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2005212 / 707471

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans21
Registered Drivers21
Total Annual Miles Moved153,245 (2019)
View Full Review
2
Treasure Moving Company Logo

Treasure Moving Company

Exceptional9.40/10
based on 1,626+ data points

11140 Rockville Pike # 300

Rockville, MD, 20852

About Treasure Moving Company

Carrying all of your worldly possessions to a new location is no small feat. Throw in the fact that you’re probably...

Services

  • Local Moving Services
  • Long Distance Moving Services
  • Residential Moving Services

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 9/8/2022)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2431129 / 847222

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans2
Registered Drivers2
Total Annual Miles Moved45,000 (2021)
View Full Review
3
Johnson Piano Moving Logo

Johnson Piano Moving

Exceptional9.40/10
based on 778+ data points

14300 Cherry Lane Ct

Laurel, MD, 20707

About Johnson Piano Moving

Johnson Piano Moving is a specialist piano moving company based in Laurel, Maryland that has been operating since 1978. Over its...

Services

  • Local & Long-Distance Piano Movers
  • Piano Moving Local & Long-Distance
  • Climate-Controlled Piano Storage

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

1849560 / 667776

Authorized For Property

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans5
Registered Drivers5
Total Annual Miles Moved120,000 (2022)
View Full Review
4
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
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.

Baltimore vs. Oakland Neighborhood Comparison

If you're contemplating a big move from Baltimore, MD to Oakland, CA, knowing how neighborhoods compare can ease the transition. By comparing Baltimore, MD & Oakland, CA local neighborhoods, this guide aims to help you find a new home that feels familiar. It's all about matching lifestyle, amenities, and the community vibe from your old stomping grounds to your future neighborhood.

BaltimoreOaklandHow They're Similar
Fells PointJack London SquareVibrant waterfront, rich history
CantonRockridgeLively, with a mix of dining options
Federal HillTemescalTrendy, with a robust nightlife
Mount VernonPiedmont AvenueCultured, historic architecture
HampdenGrand LakeArtsy, with unique shops and cafes
Harbor EastUptownUpscale, with luxury dining and shopping
Charles VillageRockridgeAcademic, close to higher education
Inner HarborEmbarcaderoScenic views, tourist attractions
Mount WashingtonMontclairFamily-friendly, nestled in nature
Little ItalyFruitvaleDiverse, with authentic cuisine

In exploring these neighborhood pairings, it's evident that both Baltimore and Oakland offer eclectic, vibrant communities rich in culture and history. For example, if you adore Fells Point's cobblestone streets and waterfront pubs, Jack London Square in Oakland will captivate you with its bustling boardwalk and historic landmarks. Similarly, Canton residents used to a lively food scene will find Rockridge a gourmet paradise, boasting a plethora of dining options from cozy cafes to upscale restaurants. And for those who enjoy the artsy and eclectic vibe of Hampden, Grand Lake's weekend farmers market, historic theaters like the Grand Lake Theater, and array of independent businesses offer a similar charm. This comparative guide is designed to not just find you a new neighborhood in Oakland, CA, but to help you rediscover the feeling of home.

Ready to start your move?

Pros and Cons of Moving from Baltimore to Oakland

Moving across the country from Baltimore, MD to Oakland, CA is a huge step that comes with its own set of challenges and rewards. To help you weigh your options, we've compiled a thoughtful comparison. By understanding both the cons of Baltimore and the pros of Oakland as well as the pros of Baltimore against the cons of Oakland , you'll gain a comprehensive view of what to expect. This honest reflection aims to guide your decision in this significant life change.

CONs
PROs
Baltimore, MD iconBaltimore, MD
  • Higher crime rate
  • Cold winters
  • Less tech jobs
Oakland, CA iconOakland, CA
  • Diverse culture
  • Milder climate
  • More tech opportunities
Oakland, CA iconOakland, CA
  • Higher cost of living
  • Expensive rents
  • Less public transport options
Baltimore, MD iconBaltimore, MD
  • Historic neighborhoods
  • Seafood cuisine
  • Lower living costs

The vibrancy of Oakland's culture is palpable in its numerous festivals and eclectic neighborhoods such as Temescal and Rockridge, each teeming with diverse eateries, from the rustic charm of Pizzaiolo to the innovative dishes at Commis. The city's milder climate encourages outdoor activities year-round, with Lake Merritt and Redwood Regional Park offering stunning natural landscapes for hiking and picnicking. Although the cost of living and rent may be higher in Oakland compared to Baltimore, the increase in tech job opportunities presents a potential for better employment prospects. Meanwhile, Baltimore's charm lies in its historic neighborhoods like Fells Point and Inner Harbor, known for their unique maritime heritage and delicious seafood cuisine, offering a quaint appeal that some may miss upon relocating.

Baltimore vs. Oakland Food Guide

Exploring the differences in local cuisine is crucial to understanding what life will be like in a new city. Comparing the local cuisine between Baltimore & Oakland gives you a flavorful glimpse into each area's culture and lifestyle. This comparison will help you navigate the culinary scenes of your current and future homes.

Baltimore
Oakland
Most iconic local food item
Crab Cakes
Sourdough Bread
Most popular meat dish
Pit Beef
Korean BBQ
Most popular street food item
Chicken Box
Tacos
Most popular vegan food
Avocado Toast
Jerk Jackfruit
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
  • Charleston
  • Woodberry Kitchen
  • The Helmand
  • Brown Sugar Kitchen
  • Shakewell
  • Commis
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness
💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
Abundance of Food Trucks
🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
Foodie Scene
🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly
🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱
🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

In Baltimore, the famous crab cakes from places like Faidley's Seafood in the Lexington Market offer a taste of Maryland's rich culinary tradition. Meanwhile, Oakland's sourdough bread reflects the city's history and connection to California’s gold rush era, with artisan bakeries around the area, including the famous Acme Bread Company. Baltimore's burgeoning food scene also celebrates local and seasonal ingredients, while Oakland, with its higher vegan-friendly score, showcases a diverse range of plant-based dining options, reflecting the city's progressive and health-conscious community.

Baltimore vs. Oakland Restaurant Comparison

Making a new city feel like home often starts with finding your new favorite spots to eat. This restaurant comparison will help you bridge the move from Baltimore, MD, to Oakland, CA, by matching top restaurants from your current hometown with equivalent eateries in your new city. Discover where you'll be enjoying your next memorable meal.

BaltimoreOaklandWhat You'll Love
CharlestonCommisHigh-end dining with a focus on local, seasonal ingredients
Woodberry KitchenCaminoFarm-to-table dining emphasizing wood-fired cooking techniques
Joe Benny’sBellanico Restaurant and Wine BarCozy spot with a focus on Italian cuisine and small plates
The HelmandShakewellMediterranean-inspired dishes with a creative twist
Miss Shirley’s CafeBrown Sugar KitchenIconic for their hearty breakfasts and Southern comfort food
Di Pasquale’s Italian MarketplaceRockridge Market HallA marketplace with gourmet Italian offerings
Thames Street Oyster HouseThe Cook and Her FarmerFresh oysters and seafood with a casual setting
Sotto SopraA16 RockridgeAuthentic Neapolitan pizza and Italian dishes
Papi’s TacosCosecha CafeTraditional Mexican cuisine with a California twist
La CucharaDuendeSpanish Basque cuisine in a lively atmosphere

When the craving for expertly cooked, seasonal dishes hits, Commis will remind you of Baltimore's Charleston with its emphasis on fine dining and locally sourced ingredients. Meanwhile, for those mornings when only a big, comforting breakfast will do, Brown Sugar Kitchen stands as Oakland's answer to Miss Shirley’s Cafe, serving up soulful Southern dishes that will start your day off right. If your love for seafood was satisfied by Thames Street Oyster House back home, be sure to visit The Cook and Her Farmer for fresh oysters and a variety of seafood that could easily become your new go-to spot. These paired establishments ensure your culinary transition from Baltimore to Oakland will be both delicious and seamless.

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Ready to start your move?

Baltimore vs. Oakland Real Estate & Living Facts

Real estate is a pivotal consideration in a move. Understanding how Baltimore and Oakland compare in aspects like housing costs, architecture, and walkability cannot be overstated. These insights facilitate making an informed decision on where to call your next home.

Baltimore
Oakland
Typical Architecture Style
Row Homes
Victorian
Walkability
👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability
🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle
🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing
Proximity to Inner Harbor
Views of San Francisco Bay

When comparing housing between Baltimore and Oakland, several key differences stand out. Baltimore's lower median home price and rent make it an appealing option for those seeking affordability. Its typical row homes and higher walkability score add charm and convenience. In contrast, Oakland, with its pricier real estate, offers Victorian-style homes and enhanced urban living, rated higher in bikeability and lifestyle quality. An intriguing aspect of real estate listings in Oakland often highlights the breathtaking views of San Francisco Bay, a testament to the city's picturesque location. Meanwhile, Baltimore's listings frequently mention proximity to the vibrant Inner Harbor, underscoring the city's rich cultural and entertainment offerings.

Pet-friendly neighborhoods background image

Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Oakland, CA

1. Rockridge : You'll love Rockridge for its abundance of green spaces and pet-friendly cafes that welcome both you and your furry friend.

2. Temescal : Temescal is ideal with its vibrant community and pet-friendly markets where four-legged pals are frequent visitors.

3. Montclair : In Montclair, you'll find numerous parks and trails perfect for daily walks and plenty of pet-friendly establishments.

Baltimore vs. Oakland Weather Considerations

When planning a move from one city to another, it's crucial to consider how the weather in Baltimore and Oakland might impact your daily life in a new environment. This comparison aims to provide a clear understanding of weather differences and prepare you for what to expect.

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

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

87°F / 66°F
75°F / 57°F
Winter icon

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

42°F / 29°F
58°F / 44°F


Rainfall icon

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

40
23
Snowfall icon

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

20.5
0


Moving from Baltimore to Oakland will bring noticeable changes in your day-to-day weather experiences. Oakland offers a milder and more consistent climate throughout the year, with fewer extremes in both summer and winter temperatures compared to Baltimore. Furthermore, you can expect more sunny days and less extreme weather in Oakland, making it an appealing destination for those who prefer a gentler climate. Transitioning to Oakland’s weather might also mean adjusting to a different pattern of seasonal allergies, a consideration if you’re sensitive to such factors.

Ready to start your move?

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

When planning a move from Baltimore, MD to Oakland, CA, understanding how your financial situation might change is crucial. This comparison aims to highlight the differences in cost of living, taxation, and average incomes between Baltimore and Oakland, providing a clearer picture of what to expect.

Baltimore
Oakland
Avg. Household Income
$54,652
$82,236
Cost of Living Index
119.4
139.1
State Income Tax
5.75
13.3
Avg. Property Tax
1.1
0.79
Avg. Sales Tax
6
9.25
Top 3 Industries
Healthcare, Education, Tourism
Technology, Healthcare, International Trade
Affluence
Moderate
High
Poverty
Significant
Moderate
Homelessness
Noticeable
High

Moving from Baltimore to Oakland, it's important to prepare for a significant increase in the cost of living, which is mirrored by higher average household incomes in Oakland. While both cities share a focus on healthcare as a key industry, Oakland's explosively growing tech sector significantly influences its higher affluence and income levels. Nevertheless, Oakland's higher taxation rates on income and sales could impact your net income. Assessing these differences will help in making an informed decision about relocating, especially considering the higher cost pressures and the distinct economic landscapes of each city.

Baltimore vs. Oakland Political & Religious Comparison

Moving from one city to another involves more than just a change of scenery. It's about diving into a new cultural and social landscape. This comparison between Baltimore & Oakland offers a quick snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents, helping you grasp the community vibe in each city at a glance.

Baltimore
Oakland
Political Make-up
Democratic
Democratic
Local Politics
Progressive with a focus on urban redevelopment
Very progressive, focused on social equity and environmental issues
Religion
Christianity predominant, diverse religious communities
Various, with a strong presence of alternative and eastern religions

While both Baltimore and Oakland share a Democratic political leaning, the nuances in their local politics and religious landscape might intrigue you. In Baltimore, the local political scene is geared towards progressive policies with an emphasis on urban redevelopment, reflective of its historical and economic challenges. The religious landscape is predominantly Christian but houses a variety of other beliefs. Oakland, on the other hand, stands out for its strong advocacy on social equity and environmental initiatives, a testament to its very progressive community. The city welcomes a mosaic of religious expressions, including alternative and eastern beliefs, illustrating its cultural diversity. Getting to know these aspects of Oakland’s community might help you better assimilate and appreciate the rich tapestry of your new home.

Baltimore vs. Oakland Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

To help you better understand what the daily commute and traffic is like, this guide offers a comprehensive comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Baltimore & Oakland. Knowing these differences will prepare you for your new environment and help you navigate your daily life with ease.

Baltimore
Oakland
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)
31
29
Traffic Congestion
6 out of 10
7 out of 10
Availability of Public Transit
7 out of 10
8 out of 10
Can you get by without car?
Possible, but challenging
Yes, with some planning

In both Baltimore and Oakland, you can expect your average commute time to be around half an hour, with slight variations depending on your exact location and destination. Oakland edges out slightly in terms of traffic congestion, meaning you might face more delays compared to Baltimore. However, Oakland also boasts a better public transit score, suggesting that its systems are more robust and could serve as a reliable alternative to driving. Living without a car is more feasible in Oakland, thanks to this extensive public transit network comprising BART and buses, making it an easier city to navigate for those who prefer not to drive.

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