Best Phoenix to Oakland Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from Phoenix to Oakland and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 780 mile move from Arizona to California go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 33 Phoenix to Oakland moving companies and more than 15,000 movers nationwide to provide up-to-date and data-driven information about: which moving company to hire (our top recommendation is Sterling Interstate LLC), how much the move costs (approximately $1,500 - $6,000 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Phoenix 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.
Best Phoenix to Oakland Moving Companies
| Rank | Company Name | Rating  | Affordability Index | License | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Sterling Interstate LLC | 9.75 | 9.64 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 2 | OCD Moving Services LLC | 9.66 | 9.47 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 3 | New Beginnings Moving Solutions | 9.32 | 9.4 | Authorized For Property | Contact |
| 4 | Creative Moving and Packing, LLC | 9.30 | 9.18 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 5 | Fairprice Movers | 8.87 | 9.12 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
(800) 787-5428Cost to Move from Phoenix to Oakland
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 780 miles from Phoenix, AZ to Oakland, CA will cost on average $2,445 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Phoenix to Oakland move is roughly $5,866. 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 | $1,645 | 300 ft³ | 5.48 |
| 1 Bedroom | $2,445 | 450 ft³ | 5.43 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $4,037 | 750 ft³ | 5.38 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $5,866 | 1100 ft³ | 5.33 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $8,452 | 1600 ft³ | 5.28 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $9,418 | 1800 ft³ | 5.23 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Oakland to Phoenix guide.
Compare the 5 Best Phoenix to Oakland Movers
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
Sterling Interstate LLC
This listing has been claimed by Sterling Interstate LLCPhoenix, AZ, 85022
About Sterling Interstate LLC
Established in 2017, Sterling Interstate opened with the intention to change the stigma around the moving industry by providing reliable, customizable...
Services
- Local moving services
- Long-distance moving services
- Packing services
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3006713 / 26956 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 6 |
| Registered Drivers | 7 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 115,000 (2022) |
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) |
New Beginnings Moving Solutions
6757 W Charter Oak Rd
Peoria, AZ, 85381
About New Beginnings Moving Solutions
New Beginnings Moving Solutions is a full-service moving company specializing in long-distance moves. It is locally-owned and operated and has been...
Services
- Long Distance Moves
- Local Moves
- Business Relocation
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3656946 / 1262843 Authorized For Property Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 1 |
| Registered Drivers | 8 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 500 (2021) |
Creative Moving and Packing, LLC
This listing has been claimed by Creative Moving and Packing, LLC4012 W Turney Ave
Phoenix, AZ, 85019
About Creative Moving and Packing, LLC
Since 2008, Creative Moving and Packing has served the Phoenix, AZ, area with high-quality local and long-distance relocation services. This company's...
Services
- Local Moving Services
- Long-Distance Moving Services
- Commercial Moving Services
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 1877603 / 1173916 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 10 |
| Registered Drivers | 11 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 150,000 (2023) |
Fairprice Movers
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
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2192738 / 768242 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 5 |
| Registered Drivers | 3 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 89,000 (2022) |
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.
Phoenix vs. Oakland Neighborhood Comparison
Moving to a new city can be overwhelming, especially when you're trying to find a neighborhood that feels like home. Our guide aims to ease this transition by drawing comparisons between Phoenix, AZ & Oakland, CA neighborhoods . By identifying similar neighborhoods across these cities, we hope to make your move smoother and more familiar.
| Phoenix | Oakland | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Arcadia | Rockridge | Trendy, affluent area with vibrant main street |
| Downtown | Downtown Oakland | Urban heart, diverse dining and arts |
| Roosevelt Row | Temescal | Artsy, with strong local arts scene |
| Paradise Valley | Piedmont | Upscale, quiet residential streets |
| Desert Ridge | Montclair | Family-friendly, nestled in nature |
| North Mountain | Redwood Heights | Scenic views, community-centric |
| Encanto | Glenview | Charming, with historic homes |
| Biltmore Area | Claremont | Affluent, with access to boutique shops |
| Melrose District | Laurel | Diverse, vibrant community spirit |
| Ahwatukee Foothills | Sequoyah | Quiet, surrounded by natural beauty |
In the vibrant heart of Downtown Oakland, you'll find an eclectic mix of dining and arts very reminiscent of Downtown Phoenix. For those drawn to the arts and unique local businesses of Roosevelt Row, Temescal's innovative spirit and array of galleries and shops offer a kindred sense of community. Meanwhile, if the lush, upscale neighborhoods of Paradise Valley captured your heart, the elegant, serene streets of Piedmont in Oakland mirror that exclusive charm, hosting a variety of upscale dining and shopping options like Piedmont Lane. Outdoor lovers who were fond of the expansive, nature-surrounded areas of Ahwatukee Foothills might find their paradise in Sequoyah, where the lush landscapes and proximity to Redwood Regional Park facilitate a seamless blend of upscale suburban living with an alluring, wilderness backdrop.
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Phoenix to Oakland
Moving cities can be a complex decision, balancing both the charms and challenges of your new and old homes. This comparison aims to provide an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of relocating from Phoenix, AZ to Oakland, CA . By juxtaposing the pros and cons, you'll gain better insight into what this move might mean for you.
Phoenix, AZ- Extreme heat
- Less cultural diversity
- Car-dependent
- Scarcity of water
Oakland, CA- Milder climate
- Rich cultural diversity
- Better public transit
- More green spaces
Oakland, CA- Higher living costs
- Less sunny days
- More crowded
- Higher property taxes
Phoenix, AZ- Lower living costs
- More sunny days
- Wide open spaces
- Lower property taxes
Moving from Phoenix to Oakland introduces you to a vibrant urban tapestry. Oakland's rich cultural diversity is palpable in its culinary scene, from the fusion flavors at Nyum Bai to the innovative vegan dishes at Millennium. While Phoenix boasts more sunny days, Oakland offers a milder climate that encourages exploration of its plentiful green spaces like Tilden Regional Park. Although the cost of living might be higher in Oakland, the quality of life, including access to world-class museums and culturally diverse neighborhoods like Temescal, makes it a compelling place to call home.
Phoenix vs. Oakland Food Guide
This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Phoenix & Oakland, highlighting the importance of food in understanding the culture and day-to-day life of these cities. By examining the culinary scenes, you'll gain insights into what to expect and where to find the best bites in your new locale.
| Phoenix | Oakland | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Sonoran Hot Dog | Chicken and Waffles |
| Most popular meat dish | Carne Asada | BBQ Brisket |
| Most popular street food item | Tacos | Banh Mi |
| Most popular vegan food | Jackfruit Tacos | Vegan Soul Food |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
Phoenix and Oakland offer vastly different culinary experiences, reflecting the unique cultures and tastes of each. In Phoenix, the Sonoran Hot Dog is a must-try, showcasing the city's blend of American and Mexican cuisines. For a taste of this local delicacy, hit up food trucks and stalls around the downtown area, where you'll find vibrant flavors at every turn. Meanwhile, Oakland's thriving food scene is highlighted by its eclectic mix of cuisines, with Chicken and Waffles at the forefront. This dish, among others, can be savored in the thriving neighborhoods of Temescal and Jack London Square, where food lovers will also find an array of vegan options, showcasing Oakland's high rating in vegan-friendliness. Each city's top restaurants, from Pizzeria Bianco in Phoenix to Brown Sugar Kitchen in Oakland, provide a gateway to exploring the culinary depth and creativity these cities have to offer.
Phoenix vs. Oakland Restaurant Comparison
Finding comfort in a new city often begins with discovering your go-to spots for food. This restaurant comparison, from Phoenix, AZ to Oakland, CA , is designed to ease your transition, guiding you towards new favorite eateries that echo the comfort of your current favorites. Let us help you feel at home, one meal at a time.
| Phoenix | Oakland | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Pizzeria Bianco | Pizzaiolo | Authentic wood-fired pizzas with a similar commitment to quality ingredients |
| Durant's | Wood Tavern | Cozy ambiance and high-quality American cuisine, echoing Durant's classic steakhouse vibe |
| Matt's Big Breakfast | Brown Sugar Kitchen | Known for their wholesome breakfasts and southern comfort food, akin to Matt's homestyle offerings |
| Talavera | Cosecha | Both restaurants focus on sophisticated, contemporary takes on traditional Mexican dishes |
| Nobuo at Teeter House | Shakewell | Offering innovative and beautifully presented plates that remind one of Nobuo's fusion cuisine |
| Barrio Café | Calavera | Mexican eatery with a similar dedication to authentic flavors and vibrant murals, mirroring Barrio Café's artistic spirit |
| La Santisima Gourmet Taco Shop | Cholita Linda | Captivating with their array of tacos and Latin American fare, akin to La Santisima's gourmet twist on street food |
| Rusconi's American Kitchen | Homestead | Similar focus on farm-to-table American cuisine in a comfortable, refined setting |
| Binkley's Restaurant | Commis | Both offer a high-end dining experience with a focus on innovative, seasonal dishes |
| Little Miss BBQ | Horn Barbecue | Both are celebrated for their mastery over the art of smoke, serving up some of the finest BBQ meats that evoke a sense of community and home |
For those transitioning from Phoenix to Oakland, the shift in culinary scenes might seem intimidating at first glance, but there are fantastic parallels to be found. For example, if Pizzeria Bianco has been your go-to for an artisan pizza fix, Oakland's Pizzaiolo will not disappoint. They excel in creating wood-fired pizzas that are as close to Pizzeria Bianco's in quality and taste as one can get outside of Phoenix. Similarly, BBQ enthusiasts will rejoice in discovering Horn Barbecue in Oakland, where the passion for smoked meats rivals that of Little Miss BBQ, ensuring you can still indulge in top-notch barbecue. It's these kinds of culinary connections that help transform a new city into a place that feels like home.
Ready to start your move?
Phoenix vs. Oakland Real Estate & Living Facts
When considering a move, real estate stands out as a critical factor. It's vital to compare how the housing landscapes of Phoenix and Oakland cater to your needs and preferences. This comparison will help illuminate the differences in cost, architecture, walkability, and urban lifestyle to better inform your decision.
| Comparison | Phoenix | Oakland |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Ranch | Victorian |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Swimming pools, garages | Proximity to public transit, eco-friendly features |
Moving from Phoenix to Oakland, you'll encounter a significant jump in both housing costs and urban lifestyle offerings. While Phoenix offers more affordable living with a focus on spacious, ranch-style homes often featuring swimming pools and garages, Oakland presents a vibrant urban experience with Victorian architecture and a higher emphasis on walkability and proximity to public transit. The higher cost of living in Oakland reflects its denser, more active urban ambiance and eco-friendly amenities. Deciding between the two depends on your budget, lifestyle preferences, and how you balance the importance of a home's character versus its location and surrounding amenities.
Phoenix vs. Oakland Weather Considerations
Moving from one city to another brings about significant lifestyle changes, particularly when it comes to weather differences. If you're transitioning from Phoenix, AZ to Oakland, CA, understanding how the climate shifts will help you prepare for your new environment. Below is a comparison chart highlighting the key weather differences to anticipate.
Phoenix, AZ
Oakland, CA
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Phoenix, AZ
Oakland, CA
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Phoenix, AZ
Oakland, CA
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Phoenix, AZ
Oakland, CA
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Phoenix | Oakland |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Poor | Moderate to Good |
| Natural Disasters | Heatwaves, Drought | Earthquakes, Wildfires |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
When you move from Phoenix to Oakland, you'll notice a significant shift in climate. Phoenix's summers are extremely hot with high temperatures reaching well into the 100s, while Oakland enjoys a much milder and more comfortable range in the 70s. Additionally, Oakland experiences higher humidity levels and more rainy days annually compared to the arid conditions of Phoenix. This difference in humidity and rainfall contributes to a diverse range of plant life and consequently, different seasonal allergies to be aware of. Understanding these nuances will help you adjust smoothly to your new surroundings.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Phoenix to Oakland
When planning a move from one city to another, understanding the financial implications is crucial. If you're considering relocating from Phoenix, AZ to Oakland, CA , getting to grips with the cost of living, income tax , and housing affordability between these two cities will assist you in making an informed decision.
| Comparison | Phoenix | Oakland |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $68,435 | $82,236 |
| Cost of Living Index | 100.7 | 139.1 |
| State Income Tax | 2.59 to 4.50 | 1.00 to 13.30 |
| Avg. Property Tax | 0.62 | 0.78 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 8.6 | 9.25 |
| Top 3 Industries | Real Estate, Healthcare, Retail | Technology, Healthcare, Education |
| Affluence | Moderate | High |
| Poverty | Moderate | Low |
| Homelessness | High | Very High |
In comparing Phoenix and Oakland, it's evident that while Oakland boasts a higher average household income, the cost of living is significantly greater. The wide range in state income tax rates in California means you could see a sizeable portion of that increased income going to taxes, especially if you're in a higher bracket. Meanwhile, Phoenix offers a lower average cost of living but also a lower average income, reflecting different economic balances between the two cities. The difference in affluence levels and the industries that dominate each city's economy further illustrate the economic disparities, possibly affecting job opportunities and living standards.
Phoenix vs. Oakland Political & Religious Comparison
Moving from Phoenix, AZ to Oakland, CA entails more than just a change of scenery. It's about transitioning into a new community with its own unique characteristics. This guide provides a comparison of the politics and religious makeup between Phoenix & Oakland , offering you a quick snapshot of what to expect from your new neighbors.
| Phoenix | Oakland | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Lean conservative, but shifting towards more moderate policies in recent years. | Strongly liberal with a high level of engagement in progressive movements. |
| Local Politics | Diverse representation with a mix of both Democrat and Republican officials. | Mostly Democrat officials, with progressive policies and initiatives. |
| Religion | Mix of religious beliefs, with a significant Christian community. Local Churches | Diverse religious landscape, strong presence of both Christian and non-Christian faiths. Local Faith Communities |
When you move from Phoenix to Oakland, you'll find yourself in a community where progressive politics are the norm and where diversity in both thought and religious belief is valued. Oakland's political scene is deeply influenced by its history of activism, which is reflected in the city's approach to social and environmental issues. This contrasts with Phoenix's more balanced political climate, where conservative roots are gradually giving way to a more moderate stance. Religion in both cities offers a kaleidoscope of faiths, but in Oakland, you'll notice a broader acceptance of different religious practices, mirroring the city’s emphasis on inclusivity and diversity.
Phoenix vs. Oakland Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Moving from Phoenix, AZ to Oakland, CA requires adjusting to new daily commute realities. This comparison between Phoenix & Oakland will help you better understand what the daily commute and traffic is like in these two cities, providing insights into their transportation ecosystems.
| Comparison | Phoenix | Oakland |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 25 | 30 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | Challenging | Feasible |
While Phoenix offers relatively smoother roads with less average commute time, the city scores lower in public transit availability, making car ownership almost a necessity for a convenient lifestyle. In contrast, Oakland, despite having a slightly higher average commute time and more traffic congestion, boasts a robust public transportation network. This makes living without a car much more feasible, thanks to the extensive coverage of BART and AC Transit services. This difference underscores the importance of considering your commuting preferences and lifestyle when moving between these cities.
Additional Resources
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