Best Houston to San Francisco Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from Houston to San Francisco and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 1,917 mile move from Texas to California go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 29 Houston 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 - $8,000 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Houston 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 Houston to San Francisco Moving Companies
| Rank | Company | Score  | 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 | Pinpoint Movers | 8.77 | 9.23 | Authorized For HHG |
| 4 | Right Rate Movers of Houston | 8.68 | 8.59 | Active |
| 5 | Go Movers | 8.52 | 9.1 | Authorized For HHG |
(800) 787-5428How Much Does it Cost to Move from Houston to San Francisco?
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 1,917 miles from Houston, TX to San Francisco, CA will cost on average $3,411 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Houston to San Francisco move is roughly $8,229. 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 Size | Moving Cost | Volume of Packed Items (ft³) | $/ft³ |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio | $2,289 | 300 ft³ | $7.63 |
| 1 Bedroom | $3,411 | 450 ft³ | $7.58 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $5,648 | 750 ft³ | $7.53 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $8,229 | 1100 ft³ | $7.48 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $11,890 | 1600 ft³ | $7.43 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $13,286 | 1800 ft³ | $7.38 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from San Francisco to Houston guide.
Compare the 5 Best Houston 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) |
Pinpoint Movers
7100 Regency Square Blvd Suite 199
Houston, TX, 77036
About Pinpoint Movers
Pinpoint Movers is a women-owned and family-operated moving company located in Houston, Texas that is licensed and insured to handle all...
Services
- Homepage:
- Residential moving
- Commercial moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3070055 / 944442 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 1 |
| Registered Drivers | 1 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 1 (2021) |
Right Rate Movers of Houston
2925 Richmond Ave
Houston, TX, 77098
About Right Rate Movers of Houston
Right Rate Movers of Houston is a trusted and reliable moving company recognized as an industry leader in terms of affordability...
Services
- Residential Moving
- Labor Only
- Packing Services
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2200927 / - Active Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 1 |
| Registered Drivers | 1 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | - |
Go Movers
Missouri City, TX
About Go Movers
Go Movers has been serving as Houston, TX's trusted relocation experts for the past 10 years. They provide both local and...
Services
- Local moves
- Nationwide moves
- Cheap moves
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3790949 / 1365663 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 1 |
| Registered Drivers | 2 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 200 (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.
Houston vs. San Francisco Neighborhood Comparison
Moving to a new city can be overwhelming, especially when you're trying to find a neighborhood that feels like home. To ease this transition, we've created a comparison of the local neighborhoods between Houston, TX & San Francisco, CA. By leveraging the familiarity of your Houston neighborhood, we'll help you discover a similar vibe in your new San Francisco locale.
| Houston | San Francisco | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| The Heights | Mission District | Vibrant arts scene |
| Montrose | The Castro | Diverse, rich in culture |
| River Oaks | Pacific Heights | Upscale, stunning views |
| Midtown | SOMA (South of Market) | Trendy, urban |
| Eado (East Downtown) | Dogpatch | Industrial chic, waterfront |
| West University | Marina District | Young, active community |
| Galleria | Union Square | Shopping, bustling |
| Rice Military | Nob Hill | Elegant, central, historic |
| Clear Lake | Outer Sunset | Family-friendly, near the beach |
| Memorial | Presidio Heights | Quiet, upscale residences |
If you're drawn to the eclectic and vibrant arts scene of The Heights in Houston, you'll find a kindred spirit in San Francisco's Mission District, known for its murals and bustling food scene, including popular spots like Tartine Bakery and Lolinda. For those who appreciate the upscale ambiance and stunning homes in River Oaks, Pacific Heights offers a similarly luxurious lifestyle with breathtaking views of the Golden Gate Bridge. Seeking an active lifestyle complemented by charming cafes and a young vibe? West University's counterpart in San Francisco is none other than the Marina District, home to scenic strolls in Crissy Field and stylish boutiques on Chestnut Street.
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Houston to San Francisco
Moving from Houston, TX to San Francisco, CA involves weighing various factors to make an informed decision. This comparison aims to show an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of moving from Houston to San Francisco , highlighting the key differences and what they might mean for your lifestyle and well-being.
Houston, TX- High humidity
- Lower walkability
- Fewer cultural venues
- Minimal public transit
San Francisco, CA- Cooler climate
- High walkability
- Richer cultural scene
- Extensive public transit
San Francisco, CA- Higher cost of living
- Smaller living spaces
- Limited outdoor space
- Expensive dining
Houston, TX- Lower cost of living
- Spacious housing
- Larger yards
- More affordable dining
Moving from Houston to San Francisco introduces you to a city bustling with energy and diversity. In San Francisco, you'll quickly notice the city's commitment to culture and the arts with institutions like the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art and vibrant neighborhoods such as the Mission District, which is teeming with outstanding restaurants like La Taqueria. The cooler climate brings relief from Houston's humidity, offering a comfortable ambiance for enjoying the numerous parks and outdoor spaces like the iconic Golden Gate Park. Despite the higher cost of living, San Francisco's extensive public transit system and walkable neighborhoods simplify moving around the city, reducing the reliance on a car. Embracing San Francisco's lifestyle means adapting to smaller living spaces but with the benefit of having a world-class city full of sights and experiences right at your doorstep.
Houston vs. San Francisco Food Guide
Food reflects the spirit and culture of a place, influencing what it feels like to live there. In this guide, we compare the local cuisine between Houston & San Francisco to help you get acquainted with the food scene in your new city. Whether it's indulging in the most iconic local dishes or exploring vegan options, understanding these differences can make your transition smoother.
- Pappadeaux Seafood Kitchen
- Killen's Barbecue
- The Original Ninfa's on Navigation
- Tartine Bakery
- Swan Oyster Depot
- Gary Danko
When you move from Houston to San Francisco, you'll find yourself transitioning from the rich, meat-heavy flavors of Texan BBQ and Tex-Mex to the fresh, sour tang of sourdough bread and seafood-centric dishes like Cioppino, a rich seafood stew favored in the Bay Area. Houston's vibrant street tacos give way to the Mission District's famous burritos. Moreover, San Francisco's dining scene offers an abundance of plant-based options and health-conscious eateries, reflecting the city's high fitness and health conscientiousness ratings. Iconic restaurants like Gary Danko provide an upscale dining experience, while places like Tartine Bakery showcase the more casual but equally revered side of San Francisco's food culture.
Houston vs. San Francisco Restaurant Comparison
Relocating can be an overwhelming process, especially when it comes to finding places that feel like home in your new city. Food plays a significant role in this transition, making our comparison of top restaurants from Houston to San Francisco crucial for those seeking to recreate their dining experiences. This guide will help you discover your next favorite eateries, easing the adjustment to your new surroundings.
| Houston | San Francisco | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Uchi | Roka Akor | Japanese fine-dining with a similar emphasis on fresh sushi and sashimi. |
| The Breakfast Klub | Brenda's French Soul Food | Comforting breakfast and brunch that harmonize soul food influences. |
| Hugo's | Nopalito | Authentic Mexican cuisine focusing on organic ingredients and traditional methods. |
| Common Bond Cafe & Bakery | Tartine Bakery | High-quality, artisanal baked goods that have become iconic to the area. |
| Pappas Bros. Steakhouse | Harris' | The San Francisco Steakhouse for a similarly upscale steak dining experience. |
| Underbelly | State Bird Provisions | Innovative American cuisine that pushes the boundaries like Underbelly. |
| Killen's BBQ | 4505 Burgers & BBQ | Focused on high-quality meats and classic BBQ with a Bay Area twist. |
| Ninfa's on Navigation | La Taqueria | Offers a memorable Mexican dining experience with award-winning tacos. |
| Pho Binh By Night | Pho Tan Hoa | Authentic Vietnamese pho that warms the soul, similar in quality and taste. |
| Crawfish & Noodles | PPQ Dungeness Island | Renowned for seafood with a strong focus on Vietnamese-Cajun flavors. |
When moving from Houston to San Francisco, the culinary transition can be as flavorful and exciting as the cities themselves. For instance, transitioning from the innovative American cuisine of Underbelly to the creative dishes at State Bird Provisions offers a similar adventure in dining, with each restaurant providing a unique twist on local ingredients. Similarly, seafood lovers will delight in swapping Crawfish & Noodles for PPQ Dungeness Island, where the focus on fresh seafood and Vietnamese-Cajun techniques continues. Both cities boast a diverse and vibrant dining scene, ensuring you'll quickly find new favorites to call your own. Whether it's indulging in the delicate pastries of Tartine Bakery, reminiscent of Houston's Common Bond Cafe & Bakery, or enjoying the authentic Mexican flavors at Nopalito, echoing the richness of Hugo's, San Francisco's culinary landscape offers a comforting bridge to your Houston favorites.
Ready to start your move?
Houston vs. San Francisco Real Estate & Living Facts
When planning a move, it's crucial to understand how real estate factors such as housing costs, architecture, and urban lifestyle in Houston and San Francisco compare. This guide serves to illuminate these differences and assist in making an informed decision.
Housing in Houston and San Francisco offers distinctly different experiences, reflective of the cities' unique lifestyles and cultures. Houston's real estate is characterized by more spacious homes with large yards, often including private pools, catering to those who value space and privacy. On the other hand, San Francisco's real estate market leans towards smaller, more historic homes that often offer eco-friendly upgrades and stunning bay views. Notably, San Francisco's exceptional walkability and bikeability scores indicate a city designed for movement and exploration, contrasting with Houston's more car-dependent lifestyle. These differences significantly influence the living experience, making it essential to consider what suits your lifestyle best when moving.
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.
Houston vs. San Francisco Weather Considerations
When relocating, understanding how the weather between Houston, TX, and San Francisco, CA, will differ from what you're accustomed to is paramount. This comparison aims to highlight the weather variances to help you adjust to your new home in either Houston or San Francisco.
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
While both cities boast more sunshine days than the U.S. average, you'll find that San Francisco's summer temperatures are notably milder due to its coastal location. In contrast, Houston's higher humidity and summer heat can make it feel substantially hotter. San Francisco's moderate to good air quality is a significant benefit over Houston's poor air quality rating, likely due to the industrial activity in the Houston area. However, each city has its own set of natural disaster risks - hurricanes and floods in Houston and earthquakes and wildfires in San Francisco. Considering these weather and environmental differences is crucial for a smooth transition.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Houston to San Francisco
When considering a move, understanding the financial landscape between Houston and San Francisco is crucial. This comparison sheds light on what you might expect in terms of income, living expenses, and taxation, helping you make an informed decision about your relocation.
Though San Francisco boasts a significantly higher average household income, the cost of living index reveals that this income is necessary to manage expenses in one of the most expensive cities in the U.S. While Texas offers a 0% state income tax, potentially making Houston an attractive place for your wallet, San Francisco's allure comes with a high price, reflected in its steep living costs and state income tax rates. Additionally, the contrast in primary industries highlights the diverse economic opportunities that could align with your professional skills and preferences. Understanding these nuances is pivotal in preparing for the financial impact of your move.
Houston vs. San Francisco Political & Religious Comparison
This brief overview aims to offer a quick, at-a-glance snapshot regarding the comparison of the politics between Houston & San Francisco to help you understand the general political and religious landscape of your current and future home.
Moving from Houston to San Francisco, you'll find both cities share a Democratic tilt, though San Francisco is known for its particularly strong liberal stance and progressive policies, especially in comparison to Houston's blend of political views. While Houston boasts a religiously diverse community with a significant number of religious establishments across various faiths, San Francisco tends to lean towards more secular views, though it certainly does not lack in religious diversity. Understanding these dynamics can be crucial for settling into your new environment seamlessly.
Houston vs. San Francisco Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Moving from Houston, TX to San Francisco, CA brings a significant change, especially in your daily commute. This guide highlights the differences in traffic and transportation options between Houston & San Francisco to help you better understand what to expect from your daily travel to work or around the city.
In San Francisco, the reliance on public transit is significantly higher than in Houston, attributed to its robust network, including buses, trolleys, and the famous cable cars. The City by the Bay scores a 9 on the availability of public transit, contrasting with Houston's score of 5. This difference emphasizes the feasibility of living in San Francisco without a personal vehicle, a lifestyle less practical in sprawling Houston. Although the average commute time is slightly longer in San Francisco, the city's compact nature and comprehensive public transit options make navigation without a car entirely plausible.
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