Best Virginia Beach to San Francisco Movers + Moving Guide

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If you're moving from Virginia Beach to San Francisco and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 3,013 mile move from Virginia to California go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 24 Virginia Beach 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 Virginia Beach 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 Virginia Beach to San Francisco Moving Companies

Company
Score Question
Affordability IndexLicense
1OCD Moving Services LLC9.679.47Authorized For HHG
2Bay - L.A. Express Moving9.349.49Authorized For HHG
3Marathon Moving Services9.299.25Authorized For HHG
4Prime Movers USA9.099.39Authorized For Property, HHG
5A Friendly & Affordable Mover8.238.74Authorized For Property, HHG
Phone (800) 787-5428

How Much Does it Cost to Move from Virginia Beach to San Francisco?

Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 3,013 miles from Virginia Beach, VA to San Francisco, CA will cost on average $4,343 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Virginia Beach to San Francisco move is roughly $10,507. 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$2,911300 ft³$9.70
1 Bedroom$4,343450 ft³$9.65
2 Bedrooms$7,202750 ft³$9.60
3 Bedrooms$10,5071100 ft³$9.55
4 Bedrooms$15,2031600 ft³$9.50
5+ Bedrooms$17,0141800 ft³$9.45
*Please note: These Virginia to California moving prices are rough approximations based upon nationwide data as well as local and statewide data from Virginia & 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 VA to CA mover.
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from San Francisco to Virginia Beach guide.

Compare the 5 Best Virginia Beach 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
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
2
Marathon Moving Services Logo

Marathon Moving Services

Exceptional
claimed company icon
9.29/10
based on 970+ data points

MMS

Virginia Beach, VA, 23464

About Marathon Moving Services

Are you looking for an independently-owned moving company that provides affordable and reliable moving services in Virginia Beach? Marathon Moving Services...

Services

  • Residential Moves
  • Commercial Moves
  • Packing & Delivery

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3572153 / 1552140

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans3
Registered Drivers8
Total Annual Miles Moved20,000 (2023)
View Full Review
3
Prime Movers USA Logo

Prime Movers USA

Exceptional9.09/10
based on 576+ data points

531 Fountain Lake Dr

Virginia Beach, VA, 23451

About Prime Movers USA

Based in Virginia Beach, VA, Prime Movers offers premium moving services at unmatched prices. Founded in 2015, it takes pride in...

Services

  • Local moves (within 50 miles)
  • Long distance moves (over 50 miles)
  • Packing/unpacking services

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2995403 / 21183

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans2
Registered Drivers2
Total Annual Miles Moved9,060 (2023)
View Full Review
4
A Friendly & Affordable Mover Logo

A Friendly & Affordable Mover

Very Good
claimed company icon
8.23/10
based on 1,134+ data points

516 Central Dr Suite 104

Virginia Beach, VA, 23454

About A Friendly & Affordable Mover

A Friendly and Affordable Mover is a locally-owned moving company in Virginia Beach, VA. Founded in 1989, this company is one...

Services

  • Local and long-distance professional moving services
  • Free in-home estimates
  • Loading and unloading services for rental trucks, storage areas, and PODS

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3239170 / 1036449

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans2
Registered Drivers4
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.

Virginia Beach vs. San Francisco Neighborhood Comparison

Moving from one city to another can be daunting, especially when you're not familiar with the new location. To ease your transition, we've crafted a comparison of the local neighborhoods between Virginia Beach, VA & San Francisco, CA. This guide is designed to help you find a new neighborhood in San Francisco that feels like home, using your Virginia Beach neighborhood as a baseline.

Virginia BeachSan FranciscoHow They're Similar
Chic's BeachOuter SunsetLaid-back, beachside living
Great NeckMarina DistrictWaterfront views, bustling streets
Town CenterUnion SquareHeart of shopping, dining, and culture
SandbridgeSea CliffQuiet, seaside luxury
AlantonPacific HeightsUpscale, breathtaking views
KempsvilleNoe ValleyFamily-friendly, community vibe
PungoPresidio HeightsRural in the city, expansive homes
Red Mill FarmCow HollowYoung, vibrant, with a small-town feel
Bay ColonyRussian HillExclusive, with panoramic views
ShadowlawnMission DistrictEclectic, cultural hotspot

When relocating from Virginia Beach to San Francisco, neighborhoods like Chic's Beach and Outer Sunset offer a similar beachside living experience, with Outer Sunset providing a serene backdrop against the vibrant city life. If the upscale, waterfront lifestyle of Great Neck appeals to you, the Marina District in San Francisco mirrors this with its bustling streets, scenic views, and access to water activities. For those accustomed to the community vibe of Kempsville, Noe Valley in San Francisco offers a charming atmosphere with family-friendly parks like Dolores Park and a diverse array of local businesses, including the popular Noe Valley Bakery. Meanwhile, the artsy and vibrant nature of Shadowlawn finds its counterpart in the Mission District, where cultural hotspots, murals, and iconic eateries like La Taqueria beckon. This detailed comparison aims to paint a clearer picture of what to expect in your new San Francisco neighborhood, focusing on key aspects like culture, community, and lifestyle.

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Pros and Cons of Moving from Virginia Beach to San Francisco

Moving from Virginia Beach, VA, to San Francisco, CA, brings a significant shift in lifestyle and surroundings. This comparison aims to provide an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of relocating from Virginia Beach to San Francisco , helping you weigh the pros and cons before making your move.

CONs
PROs
Virginia Beach, VA iconVirginia Beach, VA
  • Lower cultural diversity
  • Less job opportunities in tech
  • More affordable housing
  • Milder climate
  • Lesser food variety
San Francisco, CA iconSan Francisco, CA
  • Rich cultural diversity
  • More tech job opportunities
  • Higher cost of living
  • Chilly, foggy weather
  • World-class cuisine
San Francisco, CA iconSan Francisco, CA
  • Higher cost of living
  • Chilly, foggy weather
  • High population density
  • Urban lifestyle
  • Challenge in parking
Virginia Beach, VA iconVirginia Beach, VA
  • More affordable housing
  • Milder climate
  • Lower population density
  • Beach lifestyle
  • Easy road travel

Moving from Virginia Beach to San Francisco introduces you to a wealth of cultural diversity and dining options. In San Francisco, neighborhoods like the Mission District are renowned for their vibrant street art and delicious Taqueria La Cumbre, one of the original Mission-style burrito joints. Meanwhile, technology professionals will find a haven in Silicon Valley, just a short drive from the city, overflowing with job opportunities. On the downside, San Francisco's cost of living is notably higher than Virginia Beach, especially when it comes to housing. Popular areas, such as the bustling, tech-savvy SoMa (South of Market) and the picturesque yet foggy Sunset District, reflect this stark difference in lifestyle and expenses. Yet, for those willing to embrace the change, San Francisco offers an unparalleled urban experience.

Virginia Beach vs. San Francisco Food Guide

Understanding the local food scene is crucial when moving to a new area, as food is an integral part of local culture and livability. In this guide, we'll provide a comparison of the local cuisines between Virginia Beach & San Francisco so you can be better informed about what culinary delights await you in your new home.

Virginia Beach
San Francisco
Most iconic local food item
Seafood (Blue Crabs)
Sourdough Bread
Most popular meat dish
BBQ Ribs
Cioppino
Most popular street food item
Fish Tacos
Mission Burrito
Most popular vegan food
Acai Bowls
Tempeh Reuben
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
  • Tautog's Restaurant
  • Doc Taylor's
  • Waterman's Surfside Grille
  • Tartine Bakery
  • Zuni Café
  • Swan Oyster Depot
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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When moving to San Francisco, you’re stepping into a renowned food paradise where almost every neighborhood showcases an eclectic mix of culinary delights. The Mission District alone is a treasure trove, famous for its Mission Burrito, a substantial roll packed with a variety of fillings, setting it apart from anywhere else in the country. Zuni Café is emblematic of the city’s foodie culture, serving up contemporary American cuisine that's impossible to resist. Meanwhile, no visit to San Francisco would be complete without grabbing a slice of the iconic sourdough bread, possibly from Tartine Bakery, a place that’s become a cornerstone of the city’s culinary identity. The health and fitness consciousness of San Francisco translates into a broad selection of vegan and health-focused eateries, making it a haven for those with plant-based preferences.

Virginia Beach vs. San Francisco Restaurant Comparison

Making a new city feel like home often starts with finding your go-to spots for great meals. This restaurant comparison is crafted to bridge the culinary gap between Virginia Beach, VA, and San Francisco, CA, helping you discover your next favorite dining destinations, reflecting the variety and richness of your old haunts.

Virginia BeachSan FranciscoWhat You'll Love
Waterman’s Surfside GrilleSotto MareCasual seafood diner known for its cioppino, mimicking the oceanfront vibe.
Tautog’s RestaurantAnchor Oyster BarCozy seafood spot with a similar commitment to freshness and local catch.
Becca Restaurant & GardenBluestem BrasserieUrban eatery with garden vibes and a farm-to-table ethos.
Duck DonutsBob’s DonutsIconic doughnut shop offering a wide variety of fresh, handcrafted donuts.
Pelóns Baja GrillTaqueria CancúnBest known for its authentic Baja-style Mexican food and laid-back atmosphere.
Le Yaca French RestaurantLe CentralAuthentic French bistro offering a similar upscale and refined dining experience.
The Hunt RoomHouse of Prime RibOffers a classic, high-end meat-centric dining experience akin to the Hunt Room’s atmosphere.
Blue Seafood & SpiritsSwan Oyster DepotKnown for fresh seafood in a no-frills setting, akin to Blue's dedication to quality.
Citizen Burger BarSuper Duper BurgersFocus on high-quality ingredients and house-made pickles mirrors Citizen’s approach.
Il Giardino RistoranteNorth Beach RestaurantOffers a romantic Italian dining experience with an emphasis on traditional recipes.

When your cravings for the familiar tastes of Virginia Beach hit, you’ll be pleased to discover San Francisco’s diverse culinary landscape offers spaces like Anchor Oyster Bar and Swan Oyster Depot, places that treasure the essence of ocean-fresh seafood, just as your favorite Virginia Beach locales do. On the other hand, places like Bob’s Donuts resonate with the immediate comfort and nostalgia of enjoying a freshly made, artisanal doughnut similar to Duck Donuts. These establishments not only highlight the potential of finding a new favorite but also the incredible culinary journey that awaits as you transition from the shores of Virginia Beach to the vibrant streets of San Francisco.

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Virginia Beach vs. San Francisco Real Estate & Living Facts

Real estate significantly influences the decision-making process when moving. It’s crucial to be informed on how Virginia Beach and San Francisco compare in terms of housing . This comparison addresses cost, architecture, walkability, and more, offering a clear perspective on what to expect in each city.

Virginia Beach
San Francisco
Typical Architecture Style
Suburban, Colonial
Victorian, Modern
Walkability
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Bikeability
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Urban Lifestyle
🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
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Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing
Spacious yards, Family-friendly
Views, Tech-ready

The stark contrast in median home prices between Virginia Beach and San Francisco highlights the significant cost of living difference. In San Francisco, the emphasis on urban lifestyle is evident with a perfect score, in part due to its high walkability and bikeability indexes, which enable residents to access everything the city has to offer without a car. San Francisco's housing market is competitive, with tech-ready homes and breathtaking views topping the list of desirable features. On the other hand, Virginia Beach presents a more suburban feel, with family-friendly amenities and spacious yards being highly valued. Its lower walkability and bikeability scores reflect a more car-dependent lifestyle. Each city offers a distinct living experience shaped by its unique housing market and local culture.

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.

Virginia Beach vs. San Francisco Weather Considerations

Moving from one city to another can bring many changes, and weather is a significant one. Understanding how the climate shifts from Virginia Beach to San Francisco is essential for a smooth transition. This comparison aims to highlight the key weather differences and prepare you for what lies ahead.

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

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

87°F / 70°F
67°F / 56°F
Winter icon

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

50°F / 32°F
58°F / 46°F


Rainfall icon

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

46
23
Snowfall icon

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

6
0


While Virginia Beach experiences a mixed humid subtropical climate with hot summers and cool winters, San Francisco offers a Mediteranean-like climate, characterized by mild temperatures year-round. You'll find significantly less rainfall in San Francisco, alongside more days of sunshine, making it generally drier than Virginia Beach. Despite this, the average humidity in San Francisco is surprisingly high due to the coastal fog. Moving to San Francisco, you'll experience a shift in natural disaster risks from hurricanes to earthquakes, altering the landscape of emergency preparedness. Lastly, allergen-sensitive individuals would encounter a shift from mold and heavy pollen in Virginia Beach to milder pollen and dust concerns in San Francisco, potentially affecting their daily comfort and health management.

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

Moving from Virginia Beach, VA to San Francisco, CA, it's crucial to analyze how the cost of living and financial aspects will change. Understanding these differences will help you prepare for the transition and set realistic expectations about your new life in San Francisco compared to what you're used to in Virginia Beach.

Virginia Beach
San Francisco
Avg. Household Income
$81,634
$121,826
Cost of Living Index
96.6
164
State Income Tax
5.75
13.3
Avg. Property Tax
0.80
0.64
Avg. Sales Tax
6
8.5
Top 3 Industries
Defense, Tourism, Agriculture
Technology, Finance, Tourism
Affluence
Moderate
High
Poverty
Low
Moderate
Homelessness
Low
High

Moving from Virginia Beach to San Francisco will introduce you to a dramatically different economic environment. Despite the higher average household income in San Francisco, the cost of living index stands at a staggering 269 out of 100, compared to 103 in Virginia Beach, underlining the much higher expenses you will face in categories such as housing, food, and transportation. State income tax in California is the highest in the nation, which can significantly impact your take-home pay. Additionally, San Francisco's affluence is notable, with leading industries being technology and finance. However, the city also struggles with higher rates of homelessness, which is an important social issue to be aware of as a new resident.

Virginia Beach vs. San Francisco Political & Religious Comparison

This comparison of the politics between Virginia Beach & San Francisco provides a quick snapshot to help you understand how the political and religious makeup of residents differs between your current city and your new home.

Virginia Beach
San Francisco
Political Make-up
Moderately conservative
Highly liberal
Local Politics
Largely Republican influence
Strongly Democratic influence
Religion
Christian dominancy with several churches
More secular, diverse religious communities including Buddhism centers

In moving from Virginia Beach, VA to San Francisco, CA, you’ll find yourself transitioning from a moderately conservative environment to one that is highly liberal, reflecting in not just political discussions but everyday life. Virginia Beach's local politics lean more Republican, whereas San Francisco is a stronghold for Democratic values, influencing local policies and social issues. Religious practices also differ significantly; while Virginia Beach has a solid Christian majority, San Francisco is known for its secular approach and a broader diversity in religious beliefs and practices, including vibrant Buddhist and other non-Christian communities. This diverse and inclusive atmosphere is a hallmark of the Bay Area.

Virginia Beach vs. San Francisco Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

Moving from Virginia Beach, VA to San Francisco, CA? This handy comparison of the traffic and transportation options between the two cities will help you better understand what your daily commute and drive around town might look like.

Virginia Beach
San Francisco
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)
24
34
Traffic Congestion
4 out of 10
7 out of 10
Availability of Public Transit
3 out of 10
8 out of 10
Can you get by without car?
No
Yes

When it comes to commuting and daily travel, your experience in Virginia Beach vs. San Francisco will be quite different. Virginia Beach offers a more relaxed pace with lower average commute times and less traffic congestion. However, it scores low on public transit availability, making a car almost a necessity. Contrastingly, San Francisco's higher traffic congestion is offset by its excellent public transportation network, making it feasible to live without a car. This difference is something to consider if you're moving between these cities, especially in how you plan your daily commutes and manage your time.

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