Best Vancouver to San Jose Movers + Moving Guide

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If you're moving from Vancouver to San Jose and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 676 mile move from Washington to California go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 30 Vancouver to San Jose 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 D&L Movers), how much the move costs (approximately $1,500 - $5,500 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Vancouver compared to San Jose. 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 Vancouver to San Jose Moving Companies

Company
Score Question
Affordability IndexLicense
1D&L Movers9.359.36Active
2Northwest Grace Moving9.319.28Authorized For HHG
3Careful Movers9.318.63Authorized For HHG
4All Service Moving9.278.91Authorized For Property, HHG
5Comfortable Moving9.179.55Authorized For HHG
Phone (800) 787-5428

How Much Does it Cost to Move from Vancouver to San Jose?

Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 676 miles from Vancouver, WA to San Jose, CA will cost on average $2,356 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Vancouver to San Jose move is roughly $5,649. 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$1,586300 ft³$5.29
1 Bedroom$2,356450 ft³$5.24
2 Bedrooms$3,889750 ft³$5.19
3 Bedrooms$5,6491100 ft³$5.14
4 Bedrooms$8,1371600 ft³$5.09
5+ Bedrooms$9,0641800 ft³$5.04
*Please note: These Washington to California moving prices are rough approximations based upon nationwide data as well as local and statewide data from Washington & 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 WA to CA mover.
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from San Jose to Vancouver guide.

Compare the 5 Best Vancouver to San Jose Movers

These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)

D&L Movers Logo

D&L Movers

Exceptional9.35/10
based on 1,583+ data points

1563 Bahama Way

Campbell, CA, 95008

About D&L Movers

Founded by Drew Sanchez and Leo Cervantes, D&L Movers is a local moving company that offers full-service relocations for homes and...

Services

  • Cheap moving
  • Local moving
  • Long-distance moving

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 7/23/2023)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2706648 / -

Active

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans3
Registered Drivers5
Total Annual Miles Moved20,000 (2017)
View Full Review
1
Northwest Grace Moving Logo

Northwest Grace Moving

Exceptional9.31/10
based on 558+ data points

19764 Cypresswood St

Oregon City, OR, 97045

About Northwest Grace Moving

Founded in 2008, Northwest Grace Moving is a fully licensed, bonded, and insured Oregon moving company that serves the entire Portland...

Services

  • Local Moving
  • Long Distance Moving
  • Senior Moving

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 8/9/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

1999959 / 755213

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans3
Registered Drivers3
Total Annual Miles Moved50,000 (2023)
View Full Review
2
Careful Movers Logo

Careful Movers

Exceptional9.31/10
based on 4,143+ data points

3641 Haven Ave C

Menlo Park, CA, 94025

About Careful Movers

With almost two decades of expertise and experience in the moving industry, Menlo Park-based Careful Movers promises stress-free, on-time, and on-budget...

Services

  • Local Moving
  • Long Distance Moving
  • Office Moving

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

1464935 / 553377

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans14
Registered Drivers14
Total Annual Miles Moved90,000 (2022)
View Full Review
3
All Service Moving Logo

All Service Moving

Exceptional
claimed company icon
9.27/10
based on 7,584+ data points

66 SE Morrison St

Portland, OR, 97214

About All Service Moving

Based in Portland, OR, Willamette Valley Moving has provided moving services in Oregon, Washington, and Idaho for over 18 years. By...

Services

  • Residential Moving
  • Commercial Moving
  • Long Distance Moving

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

1863079 / 722865

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans80
Registered Drivers113
Total Annual Miles Moved1,186,786 (2022)
View Full Review
4
Comfortable Moving Logo

Comfortable Moving

Exceptional9.17/10
based on 624+ data points

3305 Main St # 023

Vancouver, WA, 98663

About Comfortable Moving

Comfortable Moving is a family-owned and operated moving business providing residential and commercial moving services since 2017. Based in Vancouver, WA,...

Services

  • Residential Moving
  • Commercial Moving
  • Long-Distance Moving

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 8/23/2022)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3236736 / 1015844

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans1
Registered Drivers1
Total Annual Miles Moved14,000 (2020)
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.

Vancouver vs. San Jose Neighborhood Comparison

Moving can feel like a daunting journey, especially when you're not familiar with your new city. To ease the transition, we've created a unique tool that will help you get to know San Jose, CA, using your current knowledge of Vancouver, WA as a baseline. By comparing the local neighborhoods between Vancouver, WA & San Jose, CA , we aim to provide a sense of familiarity and comfort in your new surroundings. Here are some of the top neighborhoods from each city matched based on their characteristics and vibe.

VancouverSan JoseHow They're Similar
Fisher's Landing EastWillow GlenFamily-friendly with a tight-knit community feel
Esther ShortDowntown San JoseUrban living, central location, cultural hubs
ArnadaThe AlamedaHistoric charm, walkable streets, cozy cafes
FelidaAlmaden ValleySuburban, spacious homes, natural parks
Cascade ParkEvergreenDiverse community, serene landscapes, family-oriented
Downtown VancouverSantana RowLively retail and dining, upscale living
ShumwayCambrian ParkPeaceful, residential, good schools
LincolnLos GatosAffluent, nestled in nature, boutique shops
Harney HeightsBerryessaDiverse, community-focused, active neighborhoods
RiveridgeWillow GlenQuaint, community-centric with a historic downtown

If you're moving from the green, spacious areas of Felida with its community parks and recreations, you'll appreciate the similar vibes Almaden Valley offers, bordered by picturesque hillsides and family-friendly parks such as the Almaden Quicksilver County Park. For those who love the energetic atmosphere and rich history of Esther Short, Downtown San Jose provides a bustling urban experience with cultural landmarks like the San Jose Museum of Art. Lastly, if the cozy, small-town feel of Arnada stole your heart with its charming homes and local cafes like Compass Coffee, you'll find a kindred spirit in The Alameda, where its walkable streets lined with quaint shops and eateries such as Crema Coffee Roasting Company breathe life into the neighborhood.

Ready to start your move?

Pros and Cons of Moving from Vancouver to San Jose

Embarking on a move from Vancouver, WA to San Jose, CA necessitates a careful look at both sides of the coin. This comparison aims to offer an honest reflection on both the good and the bad attributes of this relocation, helping you make a well-informed decision.

CONs
PROs
Vancouver, WA iconVancouver, WA
  • Smaller job market
  • Less cultural diversity
  • Higher rainfall
  • Cooler summers
San Jose, CA iconSan Jose, CA
  • Larger tech industry
  • Greater cultural diversity
  • Sunnier days
  • Warmer summers
San Jose, CA iconSan Jose, CA
  • More traffic congestion
  • Higher cost of living
  • Less green space
  • Faster-paced lifestyle
Vancouver, WA iconVancouver, WA
  • Less traffic congestion
  • Lower cost of living
  • More green spaces
  • Quieter lifestyle

Sources of allure when moving to San Jose include its notably vibrant tech industry, with major companies like Apple and Google fueling job growth and innovation. The city's cultural diversity is palpable in its myriad of restaurants, such as San Pedro Square Market, offering a taste of global cuisines right in the heart of downtown. Meanwhile, Vancouver's green spaces like Fort Vancouver National Historic Site showcase its quieter, more relaxed lifestyle. However, the pull of San Jose's sunnier weather, complemented by popular outdoor spots like Guadalupe River Park, makes it an attractive destination for those seeking a balance between urban and natural environments.

Vancouver vs. San Jose Food Guide

This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Vancouver, WA & San Jose, CA, understanding food is pivotal in grasping the essence of where you're relocating. Through this comparison, you can dive deeper into the culinary scene of your future home, ensuring a smoother transition.

Vancouver
San Jose
Most iconic local food item
Salmon Chowder
Pho
Most popular meat dish
Elk Burger
Carne Asada
Most popular street food item
Hot Dogs
Tacos
Most popular vegan food
Tempeh Reuben
Vegan Pho
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
  • Hudson's Bar and Grill
  • Bleu Door Bakery
  • Beaches Restaurant and Bar
  • Original Joe's
  • Falafel's Drive-In
  • Hokkaido Ramen Santouka
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 San Jose, you'll quickly notice the vibrant and diverse food scene, reflective of its rich cultural tapestry. Neighborhoods like Downtown San Jose and Santana Row are bustling with culinary hotspots. Falafel's Drive-In, for example, offers a taste of Middle Eastern cuisine that has won the hearts of many. For those with a penchant for Asian flavors, Hokkaido Ramen Santouka in the Mitsuwa Marketplace provides a truly authentic experience. Moreover, San Jose's robust vegan scene, highlighted by numerous establishments offering vegan pho, ensures that there are plentiful options for all dietary preferences. The abundance of food trucks scattered around the city also means that delicious, innovative meals are always just around the corner.

Vancouver vs. San Jose Restaurant Comparison

Food plays a pivotal role in making a region feel like home. This restaurant comparison will aim to ease your transition by comparing top restaurants in Vancouver, WA, to their counterparts in San Jose, CA . Whether you crave high-end dining experiences or prefer cozy, casual spots, this guide will help you find new go-to places that resonate with your culinary favorites.

VancouverSan JoseWhat You'll Love
Twigs Bistro and Martini BarOrchard City KitchenA vibrant spot known for its innovative twists on American classics
The Grant HouseLe PapillonFine dining with an emphasis on sophisticated plates and an elegant setting
Beaches Restaurant & BarBack A YardCaribbean influence with a laid-back vibe and hearty plates
Joe's Crab ShackThe Boiling CrabA lively spot offering a hands-on seafood dining experience
Doomsday Brewing Safe HouseOriginal Gravity Public HouseKnown for its wide selection of craft beers and laid-back atmosphere
Thai Orchid RestaurantLotus Thai BistroAuthentic Thai cuisine with a focus on fresh ingredients and bold flavors
La BottegaPaesano Ristorante ItalianoOffers a cozy, Italian dining experience with traditional dishes
Nom Nom Restaurant and GrillSmoking Pig BBQFantastic barbecue spot with a focus on flavorful meats and Southern sides
Pho Green PapayaPho Kim LongA favorite for Vietnamese noodle soups and other traditional dishes
WildFin American GrillForbes Mill SteakhouseUpscale dining known for its prime cuts and elegant atmosphere

Exploring these culinary delights, you'll notice how each restaurant in San Jose echoes the essence of your favorites from Vancouver but brings its unique flair to the dining experience. For instance, Orchard City Kitchen, much like Twigs Bistro and Martini Bar, presents an inventive menu that redefines American dining, mixing casual ambiance with gourmet dishes that are perfect for any occasion. On the other hand, places like Le Papillon mirror The Grant House’s dedication to fine dining but with a French twist, offering meticulously prepared dishes in an atmosphere that speaks of elegance and gastronomical delight. This comparison not only bridges the culinary gap between Vancouver and San Jose but also invites you to embrace and enjoy the diverse flavors and dining experiences your new city has to offer.

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Ready to start your move?

Vancouver vs. San Jose Real Estate & Living Facts

When considering a move, evaluating the real estate landscape is crucial. Understanding housing in Vancouver, WA, vs. San Jose, CA , helps you make an informed decision. Let’s dive into how these two cities compare in terms of housing.

Vancouver
San Jose
Typical Architecture Style
Northwest Craftsman
Modern and Spanish Colonial
Walkability
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Bikeability
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Urban Lifestyle
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Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing
Proximity to Portland, Large Yards
Tech Industry, Green Spaces

The housing market starkly contrasts between Vancouver, WA, and San Jose, CA. Vancouver offers a more affordable entry point with a median home price significantly lower than San Jose's. This reflects in the median monthly rents as well, making Vancouver a budget-friendlier option. However, San Jose scores higher in terms of walkability, bikeability, and urban lifestyle, indicative of its vibrant city life and tech-centric community. Notably, San Jose's architecture is diverse, blending modern designs with historic Spanish Colonial, reflecting its rich cultural tapestry. In comparison, Vancouver features classic Northwest Craftsman styles, offering a different aesthetic appeal. Both cities boast unique advantages, whether you're seeking affordability and proximity to the natural beauty in Vancouver or eager to dive into the bustling, tech-driven urban atmosphere in San Jose.

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Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in San Jose, CA

1. Willow Glen : You’ll love walking your pet through the tree-lined streets and enjoying the welcoming community parks.

2. Rose Garden : Your furry friend will have plenty of space to roam and socialize in this neighborhood's expansive park areas.

3. West San Jose : This area offers numerous pet-friendly amenities and spacious parks, making it ideal for your pet-friendly lifestyle.

Vancouver vs. San Jose Weather Considerations

Moving from one city to another brings numerous adjustments, particularly in weather conditions. Understanding how the weather in Vancouver, WA compares to San Jose, CA, influences your preparation and lifestyle changes. This comparison aims to highlight the significant climatic differences to expect.

Vancouver
San Jose
Days of Sunshine per Year
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Avg. Annual Humidity
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Avg. UV Index
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Natural Disasters
Earthquakes, Floods
Earthquakes, Wildfires
Air Quality
Moderate
Good
Summer icon

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

79°F / 58°F
83°F / 58°F
Winter icon

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

47°F / 36°F
60°F / 42°F


Rainfall icon

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

41.5
15.82
Snowfall icon

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

4.3
0


As you prepare to move from Vancouver, WA, to San Jose, CA, keep in mind that San Jose enjoys more days of sunshine and generally warmer winters. The significant decrease in annual rainfall in San Jose might be a welcome change if you prefer less rainy days. However, be prepared for higher UV levels and be vigilant about sun protection. Air quality is generally better in San Jose, which could be beneficial for those sensitive to seasonal allergies or respiratory issues. Adjusting to these differences will ensure a smoother transition to your new home.

Ready to start your move?

Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Vancouver to San Jose

When planning a move from one city to another, understanding how the cost of living in Vancouver, WA compares with San Jose, CA is crucial. This comparison can help you anticipate the financial adjustments you might need to make and ensure a smoother transition.

Vancouver
San Jose
Avg. Household Income
$69,993
$126,377
Cost of Living Index
94.8
156.1
State Income Tax
0%
13.3% (max rate)
Avg. Property Tax
1.03%
0.79%
Avg. Sales Tax
8.4%
9.25%
Top 3 Industries
Healthcare, Manufacturing, Retail
Technology, Manufacturing, Retail
Affluence
Moderate
High
Poverty
Lower
Moderate
Homelessness
Moderate
High

While comparing Vancouver and San Jose, it's evident that San Jose presents a higher cost of living and average household income, which reflects its status as a technology hub attracting high salaries. However, this also comes with higher sales taxes and a significant state income tax, which does not apply in Washington state. Despite a lower average property tax rate in San Jose, the overall expenses and cost of living can still be considerably higher. Notably, both cities show a robust presence of manufacturing and retail sectors, albeit San Jose excels in technology. The economic landscape of San Jose rewards its residents with higher affluence, but also challenges them with higher poverty and homelessness rates, suggesting the income disparity issue is more pronounced.

Vancouver vs. San Jose Political & Religious Comparison

Moving from one city to another involves more than just packing boxes. Understanding the community you'll be joining is vital. This comparison provides a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents between Vancouver, WA, and San Jose, CA. Knowing these aspects can help ease the transition and set expectations about your new home.

Vancouver
San Jose
Political Make-up
Leans Democratic
Strongly Democratic
Local Politics
Mixed urban and suburban perspectives
Urban, with a strong focus on tech and diversity
Religion
Moderate religious diversity
High religious diversity with a significant number of non-religious residents

Moving to San Jose, you'll find yourself in a strongly Democratic area, reflecting California's overall political leaning, especially in contrast to Vancouver's more mixed political landscape. Local politics in San Jose are deeply influenced by the city's status as a tech hub, leading to a focus on innovation, diversity, and progressive policies. Additionally, San Jose boasts a high degree of religious diversity, including a noteworthy percentage of residents who identify as non-religious. This diversity is a testament to the city's welcoming and inclusive nature, which you'll likely find refreshing. Embracing these differences will enrich your experience and help you settle into your new community.

Vancouver vs. San Jose Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

Moving from Vancouver, WA, to San Jose, CA, offers a new lifestyle, especially when it comes to your daily commute. This comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Vancouver & San Jose aims to help you better understand what the daily commute and traffic is like, so you can plan your days more effectively.

Vancouver
San Jose
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)
25
30
Traffic Congestion
4 out of 10
6 out of 10
Availability of Public Transit
5 out of 10
8 out of 10
Can you get by without car?
No
Yes

While both cities offer unique experiences, San Jose emerges as the city with a higher reliance on public transit, thanks to its extensive network including VTA services. The average commute time in San Jose is slightly longer than in Vancouver, which might be due to the increased traffic congestion in the Silicon Valley area. Despite this, the increased availability of public transit options in San Jose means you can realistically live there without owning a car, which is a significant difference from Vancouver, where a car is almost essential for daily commuting. This shift might take some getting used to, but it could also open up new opportunities for exploring the city in ways you hadn't considered before.

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