Best Pittsburgh to Oakland Movers + Moving Guide

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If you're moving from Pittsburgh to Oakland and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 2,661 mile move from Pennsylvania to California go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 28 Pittsburgh 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 $2,500 - $10,000 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Pittsburgh 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 Pittsburgh to Oakland Moving Companies

Company
Score Question
Affordability IndexLicense
1OCD Moving Services LLC9.679.47Authorized For HHG
2Pittsburgh Moving9.649.51Authorized For HHG
3Meta Movers9.159.43Authorized For HHG
4Fairprice Movers8.909.12Authorized For HHG
5Two Men and a Truck8.818.2Authorized For Property, HHG
Phone (800) 787-5428

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

Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 2,661 miles from Pittsburgh, PA to Oakland, CA will cost on average $4,044 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Pittsburgh to Oakland move is roughly $9,776. 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$2,711300 ft³$9.04
1 Bedroom$4,044450 ft³$8.99
2 Bedrooms$6,703750 ft³$8.94
3 Bedrooms$9,7761100 ft³$8.89
4 Bedrooms$14,1391600 ft³$8.84
5+ Bedrooms$15,8161800 ft³$8.79
*Please note: These Pennsylvania to California moving prices are rough approximations based upon nationwide data as well as local and statewide data from Pennsylvania & 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 PA to CA mover.
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Oakland to Pittsburgh guide.

Compare the 5 Best Pittsburgh 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
Pittsburgh Moving Logo

Pittsburgh Moving

Exceptional9.64/10
based on 1,121+ data points

5746 Pierce St

Pittsburgh, PA, 15232

About Pittsburgh Moving

Located in the City of Bridges, Pittsburgh Moving is a full-service moving company dedicated to making your local and intrastate relocations...

Services

  • Local move in Pittsburgh
  • Long distance moving in or out of Pittsburgh
  • Residential move

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3901080 / 1437162

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans3
Registered Drivers6
Total Annual Miles Moved100,000 (2023)
View Full Review
2
Meta Movers Logo

Meta Movers

Exceptional9.15/10
based on 310+ data points

13 Holt St

Pittsburgh, PA, 15203

About Meta Movers

Meta Movers is a licensed and insured moving company based in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, with over a decade of experience in the...

Services

  • Full-service local Pittsburgh moves
  • Long distance residential and commercial moves
  • Loading or unloading your truck or pod

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3295834 / 1044452

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans1
Registered Drivers3
Total Annual Miles Moved10,000 (2022)
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
Two Men and a Truck Logo

Two Men and a Truck

Superb8.81/10
based on 2,598+ data points

3555 Valley Dr

Pittsburgh, PA, 15234

About Two Men and a Truck

With a premium brand of service rooted in hard work, trust, and high customer satisfaction, Two Men And A Truck is...

Services

  • Local Moving
  • Junk Removal
  • Storage

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 12/17/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

1321899 / 509618

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans14
Registered Drivers15
Total Annual Miles Moved260,000 (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.

Pittsburgh vs. Oakland Neighborhood Comparison

Moving to a new city can be daunting, especially when it comes to finding a neighborhood that feels like home. To ease the transition, we've prepared a comparison of local neighborhoods between Pittsburgh, PA & Oakland, CA . By finding areas with similar vibes, amenities, and community spirit, you can start envisioning your life in a new but familiar setting.

PittsburghOaklandHow They're Similar
ShadysideRockridgeDiverse dining, vibrant shopping scene
Squirrel HillMontclairFamily-friendly, quiet residential with parks
LawrencevilleTemescalHip, artsy with a strong sense of community
East LibertyUptownTrendy restaurants, dynamic night life
South SideJack London SquareWaterfront dining, entertainment
BloomfieldPiedmont AvenueCozy neighborhood with local charm
Highland ParkLake MerrittScenic views, community activities
North ShoreEmbarcaderoWaterfront sights, cultural landmarks
Mount WashingtonClaremont HillsBreathtaking views, upscale homes
Point BreezeGlenviewQuaint, with a warm neighborhood feel

In comparing Pittsburgh's vibrant Shadyside to Oakland's lively Rockridge, you'll find both neighborhoods offer a rich assortment of dining and shopping options beloved by locals and visitors alike. For those who enjoy the outdoors and a more family-centric setting, Squirrel Hill's charm is mirrored in Oakland's Montclair, known for its peaceful residential areas and accessible parks. Meanwhile, Lawrenceville and Temescal share a creative spirit, hosting a variety of local businesses and community events that attract a diverse and energetic crowd. Though each neighborhood has its unique flair, these parallels provide a foundation for imagining your new life in a city that, while unfamiliar, can still feel very much like home.

Ready to start your move?

Pros and Cons of Moving from Pittsburgh to Oakland

Moving from Pittsburgh, PA to Oakland, CA is a significant transition that encompasses both the challenges and the opportunities of changing your living environment. This guide aims to provide an honest reflection of the benefits and drawbacks through detailed comparisons, helping you to make an informed decision about this cross-country move.

CONs
PROs
Pittsburgh, PA iconPittsburgh, PA
  • Less sunny days
  • Lower tech job opps
  • Smaller cultural scene
  • Lower average temp
Oakland, CA iconOakland, CA
  • More sunshine
  • Higher tech job opps
  • Larger cultural scene
  • Warmer climate
Oakland, CA iconOakland, CA
  • Higher cost of living
  • More urban noise
  • Less personal space
  • Heavier traffic
Pittsburgh, PA iconPittsburgh, PA
  • More affordable housing
  • Quiet suburban areas
  • Tighter-knit communities
  • Easier traffic flows

While Pittsburgh might offer a more affordable living situation with its relatively lower cost of living and quieter suburban neighborhoods, Oakland invites residents with its vibrant cultural scene, warmer climate, and prolific tech industry opportunities. The transition from Pittsburgh’s authentic community atmosphere and manageable traffic to Oakland’s bustling urban life presents a trade-off between comfort and opportunity. For example, Oakland’s Lake Merritt and Jack London Square offer unique outdoor and dining experiences that are hard to find elsewhere. Whether you’re exploring the vast East Bay Regional Parks or enjoying California cuisine at renowned restaurants like Commis, the city is a playground for those seeking new adventures.

Pittsburgh vs. Oakland Food Guide

This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Pittsburgh & Oakland, highlighting the significant role food plays in the understanding of local culture and lifestyle of an area. This guide aims to equip you with a better grasp of the culinary landscape as you transition from one city to another.

Pittsburgh
Oakland
Most iconic local food item
Primanti Bros. Sandwich
Sourdough Bread
Most popular meat dish
Pittsburgh-style steak
Korean BBQ
Most popular street food item
Pierogi
Tacos
Most popular vegan food
Seitan Sandwich
Vegan Burrito
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
  • Primanti Bros.
  • Pamela's Diner
  • Church Brew Works
  • Brown Sugar Kitchen
  • ShakeWell
  • Commis
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness
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Abundance of Food Trucks
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Foodie Scene
🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly
🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱
🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

When moving from Pittsburgh to Oakland, you'll notice a distinct evolution in the food scene that reflects the diverse, health-conscious community of your new home. In Pittsburgh, iconic dishes like the Primanti Bros. Sandwich embody the city's rich history and blue-collar spirit, often found in bustling neighborhood joints like the Strip District. Oakland, contrastingly, is a haven for foodies seeking both innovation and tradition - from the artisanal sourdough breads that pay homage to California’s culinary heritage to the modern vegan burritos that reflect the city’s progressive palate. Neighborhoods like Temescal and Jack London Square are bursting with eateries like Commis, which redefines fine dining on the West Coast. The move will not just be a change of scenery, but also a broadening of culinary horizons.

Pittsburgh vs. Oakland Restaurant Comparison

Food plays a significant role in making a new city feel like home. This comparison between restaurants in Pittsburgh and Oakland aims to help you find your new favorite spots based on your current preferences. Whether you're in the mood for high-end dining or a casual bite, this guide will navigate you through the transition with ease.

PittsburghOaklandWhat You'll Love
Primanti Bros.Clove and HoofFamous for unique sandwiches and meat-centric dishes.
AltiusCommisBoth offer high-end dining with a creative and modern twist.
Pamela's DinerMama's Royal CafeClassic breakfast and brunch options with a homely feel.
Meat & PotatoesHopscotchRenowned for upscale comfort food and a great whiskey selection.
DiAnoia's EateryBellanico Restaurant and Wine BarBoth celebrate Italian cuisine with a cozy ambiance.
Gaucho Parrilla ArgentinaBar CésarKnown for their Latin American flavors and casual dining experience.
Butcher and the RyeThe WolfOffers a comparable atmosphere with a focus on American cuisine and cocktails.
SpoonWood TavernBoth are beloved for their modern American dishes and inviting setting.
Pizzeria DavidePizzaioloArtisanal pizzas that focus on local ingredients and wood-fired techniques.
UmamiShakewellKnown for their innovative use of flavors and Mediterranean-inspired dishes.

When considering a meal at Pizzaiolo in Oakland, one could expect a culinary experience similar to that of Pizzeria Davide in Pittsburgh. Pizzaiolo prides itself on its commitment to local farmers and sustainable practices, offering not just a meal, but an ethic closely aligned with that of Pittsburgh's beloved pizza spot. Meanwhile, Clove and Hoof stands out as a must-visit for those who appreciated the iconic sandwiches at Primanti Bros. What sets Clove and Hoof apart is their dedication to nose-to-tail butchery, which speaks to the meat lover's soul with creativity and a respect for ingredients akin to the Pittsburgh staple. These comparisons offer more than mere similarities in foods; they represent the communities and values behind each dish, making the transition from Pittsburgh to Oakland a journey filled with familiar flavors in new settings.

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Ready to start your move?

Pittsburgh vs. Oakland Real Estate & Living Facts

When planning a relocation, examining the real estate landscape between Pittsburgh, PA, and Oakland, CA is crucial. This comparison reveals essential differences in housing costs, architectural styles, and the everyday living environment. Knowing these details can help streamline your move and align your expectations with reality.

Pittsburgh
Oakland
Typical Architecture Style
Victorian & Colonial
Mediterranean & Modern
Walkability
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👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability
🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle
🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing
Spacious yards, historic details
Energy efficiency, views
Pittsburgh
Oakland
Nationwide
$921k$921k$736.8k$736.8k$552.6k$552.6k$368.4k$368.4k$184.2k$184.2k0020152015201620162017201720182018201920192020202020212021202220222023202320242024
source: zillow.com
Pittsburgh
Oakland
Nationwide
$3k$3k$2.4k$2.4k$1.8k$1.8k$1.2k$1.2k6006000020152015201620162017201720182018201920192020202020212021202220222023202320242024
source: zillow.com

In deciding between Pittsburgh and Oakland, you'll find stark differences in living costs and lifestyle. Pittsburgh's housing market offers significantly more affordable options, both in terms of purchasing and renting. The city is characterized by historic Victorian and Colonial-style homes, often featuring spacious yards, appealing to those craving a mix of urban and suburban living. Contrastingly, Oakland's real estate market is notably pricier, reflected in the modern and Mediterranean architecture styles that dominate the area. Listings frequently highlight sustainable features and scenic views, catering to environmentally conscious individuals and those desiring a vibrant urban lifestyle. Both cities demonstrate unique appeals to different preferences and priorities, impacting your decision on where to settle significantly.

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.

Pittsburgh vs. Oakland Weather Considerations

If you're contemplating a move from Pittsburgh, PA to Oakland, CA, understanding the weather variations between these cities is crucial. Grasping how the climate shifts will help you acclimate more smoothly. Here, we compare the weather conditions in Pittsburgh versus Oakland , ensuring you're well-prepared for what awaits you.

Pittsburgh
Oakland
Days of Sunshine per Year
☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. Annual Humidity
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Avg. UV Index
🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Natural Disasters
Blizzards, Floods
Earthquakes, Wildfires
Air Quality
Moderate
Good
Summer icon

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

83/63
75/56
Winter icon

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

37/21
58/44


Rainfall icon

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

38
23
Snowfall icon

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

41
0


Moving from Pittsburgh to Oakland introduces you to a more temperate climate, boasting milder summers and winters, and significantly more days of sunshine. Oakland's milder weather means winter coats can often be swapped for light jackets. However, Oakland's proximity to the Pacific Ocean increases its humidity levels. Prospective movers should also consider Oakland's higher UV index, necessitating more frequent sunscreen application. Air quality in Oakland is generally better, thanks to stringent California air regulations. Understanding these differences prepares you for a smoother transition, ensuring you're not just physically but also mentally ready for your new home's climate.

Ready to start your move?

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

When planning a move from one city to another, it's crucial to grasp how your financial landscape might shift. This chart aims to highlight the key money and finance differences between Pittsburgh, PA, and Oakland, CA , offering a clearer picture of what to expect in terms of living expenses and economic environment.

Pittsburgh
Oakland
Avg. Household Income
$57,821
$82,236
Cost of Living Index
91.5
139.1
State Income Tax
3.07
9.3
Avg. Property Tax
2.07
0.79
Avg. Sales Tax
7%
9.25%
Top 3 Industries
Healthcare, Education, Technology
Technology, Healthcare, International Trade
Affluence
Moderate
High
Poverty
Significant
Moderate
Homelessness
Moderate
High

While Pittsburgh and Oakland offer vibrant opportunities in technology and healthcare sectors, the financial implications of moving from Pittsburgh to Oakland are significant. The cost of living, including housing, taxes, and general expenses, is substantially higher in Oakland. However, this is offset by higher average household incomes. Understanding these differences is crucial for budgeting effectively and setting realistic expectations for your new life in Oakland.

Pittsburgh vs. Oakland Political & Religious Comparison

When considering a move from Pittsburgh, PA to Oakland, CA, it's insightful to examine the cultural and societal fabric of each city. This quick comparison focuses on the politics and religion between Pittsburgh & Oakland, offering a snapshot of what you might expect from each community.

Pittsburgh
Oakland
Political Make-up
Lean Democratic
Strongly Democratic
Local Politics
Moderate, with a focus on urban and economic development
Progressive, with strong stances on social justice and environmental issues
Religion
Diverse, with a strong Catholic presence
Very diverse; less emphasis on traditional religious affiliations

In Pittsburgh, the political landscape tends toward Democratic, yet retains a moderate approach to local governance, emphasizing urban renewal and economic growth. The city boasts a diverse religious scene, with a notable Catholic community. Transitioning to Oakland, you'll find the political climate deeply progressive, championing social justice and environmental sustainability. Oakland's residents often embrace a wide spectrum of spiritual beliefs, with less focus on conventional religious practice—indicating a notable shift from Pittsburgh's traditional underpinnings. Understanding these differences will help you better integrate into your new home.

Pittsburgh vs. Oakland Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

Whether you’re contemplating or already planning your move from Pittsburgh, PA to Oakland, CA, understanding the differences in the traffic and transportation options between Pittsburgh & Oakland is crucial for your daily commute and overall quality of life. This comparison aims to shed light on these aspects to help you make an informed decision.

Pittsburgh
Oakland
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)
26
32
Traffic Congestion
5 out of 10
7 out of 10
Availability of Public Transit
6 out of 10
8 out of 10
Can you get by without car?
Possible but challenging
Easier due to better public transit options

While average commute times are longer in Oakland, the city compensates with better public transit options compared to Pittsburgh. This makes Oakland more navigable without a car, especially with its comprehensive BART (Bay Area Rapid Transit) system that links to various parts of the Bay Area. In contrast, getting by without a vehicle in Pittsburgh may be more challenging, despite the presence of its bus and light rail system. Traffic congestion is also something to keep in mind, with Oakland experiencing slightly higher levels due to its proximity to other major cities and economic hubs.

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