Best Baltimore to San Francisco Movers + Moving Guide

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If you're moving from Baltimore to San Francisco and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 2,917 mile move from Maryland to California go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 40 Baltimore 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 (approximately $3,000 - $10,500 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Baltimore 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.

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Best Baltimore to San Francisco 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
5Bay - L.A. Express Moving9.349.49Authorized For HHG
Phone (800) 787-5428

How Much Does it Cost to Move from Baltimore to San Francisco?

Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 2,917 miles from Baltimore, MD to San Francisco, CA will cost on average $4,262 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Baltimore to San Francisco move is roughly $10,308. 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$2,856300 ft³$9.52
1 Bedroom$4,262450 ft³$9.47
2 Bedrooms$7,066750 ft³$9.42
3 Bedrooms$10,3081100 ft³$9.37
4 Bedrooms$14,9131600 ft³$9.32
5+ Bedrooms$16,6871800 ft³$9.27
*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 San Francisco to Baltimore guide.

Compare the 5 Best Baltimore 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 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
B

Bay - L.A. Express Moving

Exceptional9.34/10
based on 542+ data points

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

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

1396171 / 530464

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans2
Registered Drivers3
Total Annual Miles Moved60,000 (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. San Francisco Neighborhood Comparison

When planning a move from Baltimore, MD, to San Francisco, CA, it can be helpful to compare similar neighborhoods to ease the transition. This guide aims to familiarize you with your new city by comparing local neighborhoods between Baltimore, MD & San Francisco, CA . Whether you’re looking for a vibrant arts scene or a quiet family-friendly area, we’ve got you covered.

BaltimoreSan FranciscoHow They're Similar
Fells PointNorth BeachStrong historical roots, lively nightlife
CantonMarina DistrictWaterfront area, multitude of dining options
Federal HillTelegraph HillSteep streets, stunning views
Mount VernonHayes ValleyCultural hub, architectural charm
HampdenMission DistrictEclectic, community-oriented with trendy vibes
Harbor EastEmbarcaderoUpscale shopping, waterfront views
Charles VillageHaight-AshburyColorful, young, artsy atmosphere
Little ItalyNorth BeachRich cultural heritage, excellent Italian cuisine
Roland ParkPacific HeightsAffluent, stately homes with scenic views
Inner HarborFisherman’s WharfTourist attractions, waterfront activities

For those moving from Baltimore's vibrant Fells Point to San Francisco, North Beach will not disappoint. Both neighborhoods boast deep historical roots and a buzz of nightlife. If the waterfront charm and dining variety of Canton are what you're leaving behind, the Marina District in San Francisco offers a similar vibe, with an abundance of dining options and an active social scene. The genteel atmosphere and historic homes of Roland Park find a match in the upscale Pacific Heights, where grand mansions and breathtaking views reign supreme. San Francisco's Mission District echoes Hampden's eclectic and community-oriented feel, where trendy shops, restaurants, and annual street festivals like Carnaval San Francisco keep the vibe lively and welcoming.

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Pros and Cons of Moving from Baltimore to San Francisco

Moving from Baltimore, MD to San Francisco, CA offers a unique opportunity to weigh the good against the bad of such a significant relocation. This comparison aims to provide an honest reflection of the challenges and benefits you'll face, emphasizing the transformative journey ahead.

CONs
PROs
Baltimore, MD iconBaltimore, MD
  • Higher crime rate
  • Lower average salary
  • Less tech opportunities
  • Smaller cultural scene
  • Humid summers
San Francisco, CA iconSan Francisco, CA
  • Lower crime rate
  • Higher average salary
  • Booming tech industry
  • Vibrant cultural scene
  • Milder climate
San Francisco, CA iconSan Francisco, CA
  • High cost of living
  • Far from D.C.
  • Ongoing housing crisis
  • Fewer historical sites
  • May be farther from family
Baltimore, MD iconBaltimore, MD
  • More affordable real estate
  • Proximity to D.C.
  • Smaller, manageable size
  • Richer historical sites
  • Closer to family (if applicable)

Moving from Baltimore to San Francisco introduces you to a world where the tech industry is not just thriving but leading globally. This tech boom has made cities like San Francisco household names in innovation, home to giants like Google and Facebook. However, the transition isn't without its drawbacks. San Francisco's high cost of living, primarily driven by its ongoing housing crisis, can be a significant adjustment. Imagine trading the historical charm of Baltimore’s Inner Harbor for the breathtaking vistas of Golden Gate National Recreation Area, or leaving the humid summers behind for the foggy, yet temperate climate of a city surrounded by the Pacific Ocean. Despite these challenges, San Francisco's vibrant cultural scene, with neighborhoods like Mission District known for its arts, culinary destinations, and tech innovations, offers a unique lifestyle that is both fast-paced and imbued with a deep sense of community.

Baltimore vs. San Francisco Food Guide

This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Baltimore & San Francisco because food greatly influences the cultural fabric and lifestyle of a region. This guide aims to familiarize you with the culinary scenes of both cities as you plan your move.

Baltimore
San Francisco
Most iconic local food item
Crab Cakes
Sourdough Bread
Most popular meat dish
Pit Beef
Mission Burrito
Most popular street food item
Chicken Box
Food Trucks
Most popular vegan food
Kale Salad
Impossible Burger
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
  • Charm City Cakes
  • Phillips Seafood
  • Lexington Market
  • Tartine Bakery
  • Slanted Door
  • Zuni Café
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness
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Abundance of Food Trucks
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Foodie Scene
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Vegan Friendly
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In Baltimore, neighborhoods like Fells Point and Federal Hill offer a wide array of dining experiences, from traditional seafood to international cuisine, showcasing the city's culinary diversity. Charm City Cakes stands as a testament to Baltimore's unique food scene. Meanwhile, San Francisco's Mission District is renowned for its culinary creativity, housing spots like Tartine Bakery known for their delectable sourdough and The Slanted Door, which offers a modern twist on Vietnamese cuisine. San Francisco's commitment to vegan and health-conscious eating is exemplified by the wide availability of options like the Impossible Burger, found in many local eateries.

Baltimore vs. San Francisco Restaurant Comparison

When relocating from Baltimore to San Francisco, finding local eateries that remind you of home can truly make a difference in settling in. This comparison of top restaurants from Baltimore to San Francisco is designed to ease your transition by matching you with new favorite spots based on your old preferences. From fine dining to casual eateries, let this guide be your culinary compass.

BaltimoreSan FranciscoWhat You'll Love
CharlestonGary Dankosimilar upscale dining experience with a strong emphasis on local ingredients
Woodberry KitchenNopasimilarly focuses on farm-to-table dining with a rustic, yet refined atmosphere
Joe Benny'sTony’s Pizza Napoletanaboth are beloved for their authentic Italian pizzas and cozy vibe
Thames Street Oyster HouseSwan Oyster Depotboth offer an exceptional seafood selection in a casual setting
Miss Shirley’s CaféMama’s on Washington Squareboth spots are famous for their hearty breakfasts and brunches
The Food MarketBi-Rite Marketalthough Bi-Rite is more market than a restaurant, its prepared foods and vibe resonate with The Food Market’s casual, gourmet offerings
Sotto SopraPerbaccofor lovers of sophisticated Italian fare, both restaurants offer a fine dining experience with a focus on authentic flavors
La CucharaCoquetaboth are known for their Iberian Peninsula-inspired dishes, offering a mix of Spanish and Basque flavors
ClavelCaliforniosboth provide a unique take on their respective cuisines, with Clavel focusing on Mexican and Californios on upscale Mexican-Californian fusion
Di Pasquale’s MarketplaceDel Popolofor an Italian deli experience with a modern twist, both offer exceptional Italian sandwiches and more

In comparing establishments like Charleston in Baltimore to Gary Danko in San Francisco, it's apparent that both cities boast refined dining experiences that emphasize the use of fresh, local ingredients. Similarly, the casual, yet gourmet atmosphere of The Food Market finds a counterpart in San Francisco's Bi-Rite Market, which offers a delightful selection of prepared foods ideal for a quick gourmet meal. For those who cherish the brunch traditions of Miss Shirley’s Café, Mama’s on Washington Square promises a familiar joy with its hearty and diverse breakfast and brunch options. Each San Francisco restaurant was chosen not only for its culinary parallels but for the experiences they offer, promising to create a sense of home in a new setting.

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Ready to start your move?

Baltimore vs. San Francisco Real Estate & Living Facts

When planning a move, understanding the real estate dynamics between Baltimore and San Francisco is crucial for making an informed decision. Here, we've compared key housing aspects to help you gauge the differences and make your transition smoother.

Baltimore
San Francisco
Typical Architecture Style
Row Houses
Victorian and Modern
Walkability
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Bikeability
🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
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Urban Lifestyle
🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing
Spacious living areas, historic details
Views, tech-friendly home systems

The differences in housing between Baltimore and San Francisco are striking, both in terms of cost and lifestyle. While Baltimore offers more affordable housing options, San Francisco's steep prices come with access to a vibrant urban life and higher walkability and bikeability scores. The characteristic row houses of Baltimore contrast with San Francisco's iconic Victorian homes and modern apartments, often highlighted for their breathtaking views and advanced home tech. Ultimately, the choice between these cities depends on your priorities, whether it’s affordability and historic charm or embracing a dynamic city life with all its conveniences.

Pet-friendly neighborhoods background image

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.

Baltimore vs. San Francisco Weather Considerations

When planning a move from Baltimore, MD to San Francisco, CA, understanding the climatic changes is crucial. Weather can dramatically impact your daily life, so it's important to grasp how Baltimore's seasonal extremes contrast with San Francisco's mild conditions . This overview will help you anticipate and adapt to your new environment.

Baltimore
San Francisco
Days of Sunshine per Year
☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. Annual Humidity
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Avg. UV Index
🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Natural Disasters
Hurricanes, Blizzards
Earthquakes, Wildfires
Air Quality
Moderate
Good
Summer icon

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

87/66
70/55
Winter icon

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

41/24
57/46


Rainfall icon

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

41.94
23.65
Snowfall icon

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

20.1
0


While Baltimore experiences a more varied climate with hot summers and cold winters, San Francisco offers a much milder, more stable environment year-round. You'll find the need for heavy winter clothing greatly reduced in San Francisco, though the higher average humidity may still call for layers. Additionally, San Francisco's significantly higher average UV index and additional sunshine days emphasize the importance of regular sunscreen application. Understanding these differences will assist you in better preparing for your new lifestyle on the West Coast.

Ready to start your move?

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

When contemplating a move from Baltimore, MD to San Francisco, CA, it's crucial to grasp how the financial landscape might shift. Understanding the contrasting financial metrics facilitates a smoother transition, preparing you for differences in living costs, taxes, and economic environments.

Baltimore
San Francisco
Avg. Household Income
$54,652
$121,826
Cost of Living Index
119.4
164
State Income Tax
5.75
13.3
Avg. Property Tax
1.1
0.6
Avg. Sales Tax
6
8.5
Top 3 Industries
Healthcare, Education, Manufacturing
Tech, Finance, Tourism
Affluence
Moderate
High
Poverty
Noticeable
Lower
Homelessness
Significant
High

The stark difference in the cost of living index between Baltimore and San Francisco, at 88.2 and 269.3 respectively, highlights the significant financial adjustment required when moving. While Baltimore offers a more affordable living situation, the average household income in San Francisco is considerably higher, indicative of the city's more affluent economy buoyed by industries like tech and finance. However, this affluence comes with its costs, reflected in higher state income and sales taxes. Despite San Francisco's economic prosperity, it battles with a high rate of homelessness, a complex issue tied to its soaring living expenses. The transition carries both opportunities and challenges, poised to impact your quality of life and financial health.

Baltimore vs. San Francisco Political & Religious Comparison

When planning your move from Baltimore, MD to San Francisco, CA, it's helpful to understand the communities you'll be joining. This quick overview provides a snapshot of the political and religious makeup of residents in Baltimore & San Francisco, offering insights into what you might expect in your new city.

Baltimore
San Francisco
Political Make-up
Heavily Democratic
Heavily Democratic
Local Politics
Progressive with focus on social issues
Very progressive, environmental and tech industry influence
Religion
Diverse; Christian majority Local Churches
Multicultural religious landscape; Non-religious majority Local Faith Communities

While both Baltimore and San Francisco are known for their predominantly Democratic political leanings, you'll find that the local issues and interests that drive politics in each city differ. Baltimore's political landscape often revolves around social justice and economic reform, whereas San Francisco's politics are significantly shaped by environmental concerns and the tech industry. On the religious front, while both cities boast a diverse array of faiths and denominations, San Francisco has a larger proportion of residents who identify with non-religious beliefs. This may reflect in the communities and social groups you engage with, as well as the events and discussions that animate your new neighborhood.

Baltimore vs. San Francisco Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

Moving from Baltimore, MD to San Francisco, CA? This comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Baltimore & San Francisco will help you better understand what to expect in terms of your daily commute and navigating city streets.

Baltimore
San Francisco
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)
31
34
Traffic Congestion
6 out of 10
7 out of 10
Availability of Public Transit
5 out of 10
8 out of 10
Can you get by without car?
It's challenging
Yes, easier

In both cities, preparing for your commute involves more than just understanding time on the road. While the average commute time is slightly longer in San Francisco, this city makes up for it with its higher public transit score. In San Francisco, the investment in a broad network of buses, the iconic cable cars, and the BART (Bay Area Rapid Transit) system makes navigating the city without a car far more feasible than in Baltimore, where the public transit options are more limited and less integrated. Furthermore, San Francisco’s higher traffic congestion score reflects its denser urban environment, but the city compensates with its walkable neighborhoods and comprehensive bike lanes, offering multiple alternatives to driving.

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