Best Pittsburgh to San Francisco Movers + Moving Guide

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If you're moving from Pittsburgh to San Francisco and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 2,667 mile move from Pennsylvania to California go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 27 Pittsburgh 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 $2,500 - $10,000 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Pittsburgh 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 Pittsburgh to San Francisco Moving Companies

Company
Score Question
Affordability IndexLicense
1OCD Moving Services LLC9.679.47Authorized For HHG
2Pittsburgh Moving9.649.51Authorized For HHG
3Bay - L.A. Express Moving9.349.49Authorized For HHG
4Meta Movers9.159.43Authorized 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 San Francisco?

Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 2,667 miles from Pittsburgh, PA to San Francisco, CA will cost on average $4,049 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Pittsburgh to San Francisco move is roughly $9,788. 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$2,714300 ft³$9.05
1 Bedroom$4,049450 ft³$9.00
2 Bedrooms$6,711750 ft³$8.95
3 Bedrooms$9,7881100 ft³$8.90
4 Bedrooms$14,1571600 ft³$8.85
5+ Bedrooms$15,8371800 ft³$8.80
*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 San Francisco to Pittsburgh guide.

Compare the 5 Best Pittsburgh 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
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
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
3
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
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. San Francisco Neighborhood Comparison

Moving between cities can be daunting, especially when leaving familiar neighborhoods behind. We aim to ease this transition by comparing local neighborhoods between Pittsburgh, PA & San Francisco, CA . By identifying similar neighborhoods in your new city based on where you lived or loved in Pittsburgh, you can quickly feel at home in San Francisco.

PittsburghSan FranciscoHow They're Similar
ShadysideMarina DistrictVibrant nightlife, upscale boutiques
Squirrel HillNoe ValleyFamily-friendly, parks and cafes
LawrencevilleMission DistrictArtsy, hipster vibe with unique eateries
East LibertySOMATrendy, tech hub with modern living spaces
BloomfieldNorth BeachRich cultural heritage, famous eateries
South SideHaight-AshburyHistoric, lively nightlife and diverse culture
Strip DistrictFisherman’s WharfBustling marketplace, waterfront dining
OaklandInner SunsetEducational institutions, multicultural dining
Mount WashingtonTwin PeaksStunning views, quiet residential area
Highland ParkGolden Gate ParkGreen spaces, public amenities

In the heart of San Francisco's Marina District, you'll discover a vibrant nightlife reminiscent of Shadyside, with its upscale boutiques lining Chestnut Street, rivaling Walnut Street's charm. Meanwhile, Noe Valley offers a slice of suburban tranquility akin to Squirrel Hill, boasting family-friendly parks like Douglass Playground, and a plethora of cafes and local eateries along 24th Street. Mission District's avant-garde art scene and eclectic dining, including spots like Tartine Bakery, mirror Lawrenceville's hipster ethos. For those drawn to the unique cultural weave and gastronomic delights of Bloomfield, San Francisco's North Beach offers an Italian flair with renowned establishments like Tony’s Pizza Napoletana. Each neighborhood pairs the architectural and communal essence of one city with the spirit of another, ensuring you find comfort and community in your new San Francisco locale.

Ready to start your move?

Pros and Cons of Moving from Pittsburgh to San Francisco

Moving from one city to another is a significant life change that comes with its own set of challenges and rewards. To help you make an informed decision, we've created a comparison that highlights the pros and cons of relocating from Pittsburgh, PA to San Francisco, CA . This honest reflection will provide you with a balanced view of what to expect from such a move, focusing on various aspects of life in both cities.

CONs
PROs
Pittsburgh, PA iconPittsburgh, PA
  • Lesser tech jobs
  • Harsher winters
  • Smaller cultural scene
  • Less international cuisine
  • Lower cost of living
San Francisco, CA iconSan Francisco, CA
  • More tech opportunities
  • Milder weather
  • Larger cultural diversity
  • Wider food variety
  • Higher cost of living
San Francisco, CA iconSan Francisco, CA
  • Higher cost of living
  • More transient populations
  • Less accessible nature
  • Less historic emphasis
  • High traffic congestion
Pittsburgh, PA iconPittsburgh, PA
  • Lower cost of living
  • Close-knit communities
  • Abundant green spaces
  • Rich history
  • Low traffic congestion

The transition from Pittsburgh to San Francisco offers a dramatic shift in lifestyle and opportunities. For instance, tech professionals will find San Francisco a goldmine for career advancement, given its status as a tech hub. Culturally, San Francisco's diverse population ensures a rich tapestry of experiences, from the vibrant festivities in the Mission District to the culinary adventures in Chinatown. Nature lovers might miss Pittsburgh's lush landscapes, but they can find solace in San Francisco's iconic Golden Gate Park and the nearby Muir Woods National Monument. While the cost of living in San Francisco is notably higher, the city's dynamic atmosphere, from the bustling markets of the Ferry Building to the historic sights of Alcatraz Island, offers a unique lifestyle that many find worth the expense. Finally, while navigating San Francisco's dense traffic can be a challenge, the city's comprehensive public transportation system, including the iconic cable cars, offers a convenient alternative for getting around.

Pittsburgh vs. San Francisco Food Guide

Food is an integral part of experiencing a city's culture. As you prepare to move, understanding the culinary landscape is key to feeling at home. We've crafted a comprehensive comparison of the local cuisine between Pittsburgh & San Francisco to help you navigate the food scene in your new city.

Pittsburgh
San Francisco
Most iconic local food item
Primanti Bros. Sandwich
Sourdough Bread
Most popular meat dish
Pierogi Plus
Cioppino
Most popular street food item
Pittsburgh Popcorn
Mission Burrito
Most popular vegan food
Chickpea Salad
Impossible Burger
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
  • Primanti Brothers
  • Pierogies Plus
  • Pamela's Diner
  • Boudin Bakery
  • Tartine Bakery
  • Swan Oyster Depot
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness
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Abundance of Food Trucks
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Foodie Scene
🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly
🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱
🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

While both cities offer unique and iconic dining experiences, there’s a notable difference in their culinary highlights. In Pittsburgh, you’ll find yourself immersed in a rich food culture known for its Primanti Bros. Sandwich, a delicacy that sandwiches French fries and coleslaw between slices of bread. On the other hand, San Francisco boasts a thriving foodie scene that revolves around fresh, locally-sourced ingredients, with sourdough bread and Mission burritos leading the charge. San Francisco's emphasis on health and fitness is reflected in its food offerings, making it easy to find vegan and health-conscious options throughout the city, notably in neighborhoods like the Mission District and around The Ferry Building Marketplace.

Pittsburgh vs. San Francisco Restaurant Comparison

Food plays a crucial role in making a new city feel like home. This comparison chart aims to bridge the gap for those relocating, using Pittsburgh eateries as a guide to find their new favorites in San Francisco . Whether you're searching for high-end dining, casual bites, or iconic dishes, this guide will help ease your transition and tantalize your taste buds.

PittsburghSan FranciscoWhat You'll Love
Primanti Bros.Tommy's JoyntBoth offer iconic, hearty sandwiches in a casual setting.
AltiusQuinceBoth provide a luxurious dining experience with stunning views.
Pamela's DinerMama's on Washington SquareIconic breakfast spots beloved by locals.
Meat & PotatoesNopaBoth are known for hearty, rustic dishes in a trendy atmosphere.
DiAnoia's EateryCotognaItalian favorites made with love and authenticity at both spots.
UmamiIzakaya RintaroBoth offer an innovative take on Asian cuisine in a stylish setting.
Pusadee's GardenDaughter ThaiExquisite garden dining and authentic flavors at both.
Gaucho Parrilla ArgentinaLolindaExemplary meats grilled to perfection at both establishments.
Moroccan BistroMouradBoth fuse traditional and modern culinary techniques in their dishes.
Gi-JinRoka AkorPremier sushi and spirits, focusing on quality and experience.

For those who relish the vibrant culinary scene Pittsburgh has to offer, transitioning to San Francisco's food landscape can be an exciting journey. At places like Quince, you'll discover a similar commitment to excellence and innovation in fine dining that you've enjoyed at Altius. Enjoying a hearty breakfast at Mama's on Washington Square is akin to the beloved mornings at Pamela's Diner, where comfort food reigns supreme. For the lovers of Asian cuisine, the modern and engaging atmosphere at Izakaya Rintaro mirrors the unique dining experience found at Umami, promising a blend of traditional flavors with a contemporary twist. Whether you're craving the down-home comfort of iconic sandwiches or the refined elegance of a gourmet meal, San Francisco's diverse restaurant scene stands ready to become your new culinary haven.

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Ready to start your move?

Pittsburgh vs. San Francisco Real Estate & Living Facts

Real estate is a critical element when planning a move. Understanding the differences in housing between Pittsburgh, PA and San Francisco, CA will help you make informed decisions. This comparison aims to highlight key aspects of real estate to consider.

Pittsburgh
San Francisco
Typical Architecture Style
Victorian
Modern and Victorian
Walkability
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👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability
🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle
🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing
Spacious layouts, Historic details
Views, Eco-friendly features

When examining the housing landscape of Pittsburgh and San Francisco, the stark contrast in Median Home Prices and Monthly Rents stand out immediately. This disparity points to San Francisco's higher cost of living, yet its unbeatable walkability, and strong urban lifestyle score demonstrate the city's appeal. Pittsburgh, with its affordable living and historic Victorian architecture, offers a different charm. The city's lower walkability and bikeability scores suggest a more car-dependent lifestyle compared to San Francisco’s transit-friendly environment. These factors might influence your decision depending on your lifestyle preferences and budget.

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.

Pittsburgh vs. San Francisco Weather Considerations

Moving to a new city means adapting to new weather patterns. Understanding the climatic differences between Pittsburgh and San Francisco prepares you for what to expect and helps in planning your wardrobe and activities year-round. This comparison aims to highlight the key weather aspects you'll experience, ensuring a smoother transition.

Pittsburgh
San Francisco
Days of Sunshine per Year
☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. Annual Humidity
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💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦
Avg. UV Index
🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Natural Disasters
Severe Winter Storms
Earthquakes
Air Quality
Moderate
Good
Summer icon

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

82°F / 62°F
67°F / 54°F
Winter icon

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

37°F / 21°F
57°F / 46°F


Rainfall icon

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

38
23.65
Snowfall icon

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

27.7
0


When moving from Pittsburgh to San Francisco, you'll be trading the extremes of summer heat and chilly winters for a more temperate climate with minimal temperature fluctuations. Pittsburgh's weather can demand a versatile wardrobe that caters to hot summers and snowy winters, whereas San Francisco's mild temperatures mostly require light layers. The notable increase in sunshine days in San Francisco allows for more outdoor activities year-round. However, adapting to the city's unique microclimates and frequent foggy conditions is essential. Additionally, the drastic change in humidity levels and natural disaster risks, particularly earthquakes in San Francisco, underscores the importance of preparedness in your new home.

Ready to start your move?

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

When contemplating a move from one city to another, it's vital to grasp how your finances will be affected. This comparison aims to illuminate the financial changes you should expect when transitioning from Pittsburgh to San Francisco, focusing on essential economic factors that directly influence your living expenses and quality of life.

Pittsburgh
San Francisco
Avg. Household Income
$57,821
$121,826
Cost of Living Index
91.5
164
State Income Tax
3.07
13.3 (max rate)
Avg. Property Tax
2.07
0.79
Avg. Sales Tax
7
8.5
Top 3 Industries
Healthcare, Education, Technology
Technology, Finance, Tourism
Affluence
Moderate
High
Poverty
Noticeable
Less visible
Homelessness
Problematic
Significant

Moving from Pittsburgh to San Francisco entails adjusting to significantly higher living costs, reflected in San Francisco's exorbitant cost of living index. Despite the steeper taxes in California, the average household income in San Francisco is more than double that of Pittsburgh, which can help mitigate the impact of these higher expenses. The major industries in both cities also indicate potential career paths; while Pittsburgh has a strong healthcare and education base, San Francisco is a powerhouse in technology and finance, offering different job market dynamics. However, despite higher affluence in San Francisco, homelessness remains a significant challenge, reflecting complex socio-economic issues not entirely mitigated by higher income levels.

Pittsburgh vs. San Francisco Political & Religious Comparison

This guide provides a quick overview for those considering a move from Pittsburgh, PA, to San Francisco, CA, focusing on the comparison of the politics between Pittsburgh & San Francisco alongside a glimpse into the religious landscape. This snapshot will help you understand the cultural and societal atmosphere you're moving into.

Pittsburgh
San Francisco
Political Make-up
Leans Democratic
Strongly Democratic
Local Politics
Emphasis on industrial growth and revitalization
Focus on tech industry, environmental initiatives, and progressive policies
Religion
Diverse, with significant Catholic base (Diocese of Pittsburgh)
Religiously diverse, less religiously affiliated overall (Archdiocese of San Francisco)

When relocating from Pittsburgh to San Francisco, you'll find that both cities embrace a Democratic political leaning, though San Francisco's political atmosphere is notably more left-leaning, with a strong focus on progressive policies. The emphasis on the tech industry and environmental initiatives in San Francisco marks a significant shift from Pittsburgh's historical focus on industrial growth. Despite religious diversity in both cities, San Francisco is known for its lower rate of religious affiliation. This brief comparison touches on key aspects of local life and politics in your new home, giving you a glimpse into the societal values and priorities that shape these two vibrant cities.

Pittsburgh vs. San Francisco Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

Understanding the daily commute and traffic is crucial when relocating. This comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Pittsburgh & San Francisco aims to shed light on what you can expect in each city, helping you navigate your new surroundings with ease.

Pittsburgh
San Francisco
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)
26
34
Traffic Congestion
6 out of 10
8 out of 10
Availability of Public Transit
6 out of 10
9 out of 10
Can you get by without car?
Challenging
Easier

While both Pittsburgh and San Francisco offer unique challenges and benefits in terms of commuting, understanding the nuances can help you adapt more quickly. For instance, San Francisco's higher public transit rating reflects its extensive network, including MUNI, BART, and ferries, facilitating an easier lifestyle without a car. However, this comes at the cost of increased traffic congestion. Pittsburgh, while less congested, relies more heavily on personal vehicles due to its more limited public transit options. Knowing these differences can greatly influence your decision on whether to maintain a car or fully embrace public transportation in your new city.

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