Best San Francisco to Santa Rosa Movers + Moving Guide

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If you're moving from San Francisco to Santa Rosa and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 55 mile long distance California move go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 116 San Francisco to Santa Rosa 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 Sweet Lemon Moving Services), how much the move costs (approximately $1,000 - $4,500 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in San Francisco compared to Santa Rosa. 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 San Francisco to Santa Rosa Moving Companies

RankCompany NameRating QuestionAffordability IndexContact
1Sweet Lemon Moving Services9.779.67Contact
2Quantum Moving9.709.78Contact
3Fresh Start Movers9.679.44Contact
4OCD Moving Services LLC9.669.47Contact
5Pure Moving Company9.659.41Contact
Phone (800) 787-5428

Cost to Move from San Francisco to Santa Rosa

Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 55 miles from San Francisco, CA to Santa Rosa, CA will cost on average $1,828 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom San Francisco to Santa Rosa move is roughly $4,358. 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$1,234300 ft³4.11
1 Bedroom$1,828450 ft³4.06
2 Bedrooms$3,009750 ft³4.01
3 Bedrooms$4,3581100 ft³3.96
4 Bedrooms$6,2601600 ft³3.91
5+ Bedrooms$6,9521800 ft³3.86
*Please note: These California to California moving prices are rough approximations based upon nationwide data as well as local and statewide data from California & 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 CA to CA mover.
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Santa Rosa to San Francisco guide.

Compare the 5 Best San Francisco to Santa Rosa Movers

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

Sweet Lemon Moving Services Logo

Sweet Lemon Moving Services

Exceptional9.77/10
based on 3,807+ data points

403 Elwood Ave

Oakland, CA, 94610

About Sweet Lemon Moving Services

As a full-service moving company, Sweet Lemon Moving Services has been performing moves in Oakland and the wider Bay Area since...

Services

  • Local Moves
  • Interstate Moves
  • Commercial Moves

Interstate Moving License

Circle X Mark
Not Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/9/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3277021 / -

Not Authorized

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans8
Registered Drivers8
Total Annual Miles Moved5,000 (2021)
View Full Review
1
Quantum Moving Logo

Quantum Moving

Exceptional9.70/10
based on 1,514+ data points

535 Main St

Martinez, CA, 94553

About Quantum Moving

Quantum Moving is located in Martinez, California, and has been serving families and businesses in the surrounding areas with local and...

Services

  • Bay Area Local Moving Services
  • Long Distance Moving Services Within California
  • Commercial Office Moves

Interstate Moving License

Circle X Mark
Not Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/10/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3163557 / -

Not Authorized

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans3
Registered Drivers5
Total Annual Miles Moved35,000 (2022)
View Full Review
2
Fresh Start Movers Logo

Fresh Start Movers

Exceptional9.67/10
based on 1,869+ data points

1055 14th St Unit A

Santa Rosa, CA, 95404

About Fresh Start Movers

Fresh Start Movers upholds an impressive 100% customer satisfaction and 0% claims rate. It has years of experience serving customers in...

Services

  • Local Moving
  • Commercial Moves
  • Packing Services
View Full Review
3
OCD Moving Services LLC Logo

OCD Moving Services LLC

Exceptional9.66/10
based on 3,273+ 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
4
Pure Moving Company Logo

Pure Moving Company

Exceptional9.65/10
based on 7,861+ data points

401 Terry A Francois Blvd # 110

San Francisco, CA, 94158

About Pure Moving Company

With four locations in two states, Pure Moving Company has been offering professional and full-service moves in San Francisco since 2000....

Services

  • Residential Moving
  • Commercial Moving
  • Long Distance Moving
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.

San Francisco vs. Santa Rosa Neighborhood Comparison

Moving can feel daunting, especially when you're transitioning to an unfamiliar city. To make this process smoother, we've created a comparison of the local neighborhoods between San Francisco, CA & Santa Rosa, CA . This guide will help you find a new neighborhood in Santa Rosa that shares the essence and appeal of your favorite San Francisco spot. Let's dive in and match you with your new neighborhood.

San FranciscoSanta RosaHow They're Similar
Marina DistrictMontecito HeightsScenic views, vibrant community
Haight-AshburyRidgway Historic DistrictHistoric charm, cultural richness
Noe ValleyBennett ValleyFamily-friendly, quiet residential area
North BeachDowntown Santa RosaLively nightlife, cultural attractions
SoMa (South of Market)Railroad SquareIndustrial vibe, artsy community
Pacific HeightsBrush CreekUpscale homes, serene ambiance
The CastroJuilliard Park NeighborhoodVibrant community, inclusive atmosphere
Outer SunsetCoffey ParkLaidback living, proximity to nature
Mission DistrictWest EndDiverse community, rich in arts and dining
PresidioAnnadel State Park AreaAbundance of green space, outdoor activities

For those drawn to San Francisco's Marina District for its scenic views and vibrant community, Montecito Heights in Santa Rosa offers a similar allure with breathtaking landscapes and an engaged community vibe. Haight-Ashbury enthusiasts who treasure its historic charm and cultural richness will find a kindred spirit in Santa Rosa's Ridgway Historic District, where Victorian homes and a storied past come to life. North Beach's lively nightlife and rich history echo in Downtown Santa Rosa, offering entertainment, dining, and cultural attractions, including the historic 6th Street Playhouse. Meanwhile, the artistic and industrial essence of SoMa's (South of Market) neighborhood is mirrored in Railroad Square, where Santa Rosa's creative community flourishes amidst historic architecture and modern expressions of art.

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Pros and Cons of Moving from San Francisco to Santa Rosa

Moving homes is always a significant life event, and when considering uprooting from San Francisco, CA to Santa Rosa, CA, it's vital to weigh both sides of the coin. This guide aims to provide an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of this relocation, helping you make an informed decision. Below, find comparative charts elucidating the trade-offs involved.

CONs
PROs
San Francisco, CA iconSan Francisco, CA
  • Higher cost of living
  • Dense urban living
  • More traffic
  • Higher crime rates
Santa Rosa, CA iconSanta Rosa, CA
  • More affordable housing
  • More space
  • Lighter traffic
  • Lower crime rates
Santa Rosa, CA iconSanta Rosa, CA
  • Quieter nightlife
  • Less culinary diversity
  • Fewer landmarks
  • More reliance on cars
San Francisco, CA iconSan Francisco, CA
  • Vibrant nightlife
  • Diverse culinary scene
  • Cultural landmarks
  • Better public transportation

The decision to move from San Francisco to Santa Rosa involves more than a simple comparison of living costs or traffic conditions. For instance, leaving behind San Francisco's iconic Golden Gate Park might seem daunting, but Santa Rosa offers its own outdoor charm with Howarth Park. While San Francisco boasts a myriad of dining options like the famous Tartine Bakery, Santa Rosa counters with its own culinary gems such as the rustic Willi's Wine Bar. Moreover, the close-knit community vibe of Santa Rosa's neighborhoods could be a refreshing change from the hustle of city life in San Francisco. While the transition might involve adjusting to a different pace of life and possibly less spontaneity in entertainment options, the gains in housing affordability, personal space, and a safer environment may be well worth it.

San Francisco vs. Santa Rosa Food Guide

Food plays a pivotal role in understanding the culture and lifestyle of a place. Exploring local cuisine is essential for anyone planning to move. That’s why this guide offers a comparison of the local cuisine between San Francisco & Santa Rosa , so you’ll know exactly what culinary delights await in your new home.

San FranciscoSanta Rosa
Most iconic local food itemSourdough BreadWine Country Cuisine
Most popular meat dishCioppinoGrilled Lamb
Most popular street food itemMission BurritoTaco Truck Tacos
Most popular vegan foodVegan RamenVegan Wine Country Salad
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
  • The French Laundry
  • Zuni Café
  • Tartine Bakery
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
Abundance of Food Trucks🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
Foodie Scene🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

In San Francisco, the legendary Sourdough Bread can be found in historic bakeries like Boudin Bakery, a staple since 1849. Meanwhile, in Santa Rosa, you’ll be introduced to Wine Country Cuisine, blending local produce with fine wine, often found in laid-back yet elegant settings such as Willi's Wine Bar. San Francisco’s vibrant foodie scene is epitomized by its extensive array of food trucks and vegan options, most notably in neighborhoods like the Mission District. Santa Rosa, while slightly more relaxed, offers a rich dining experience influenced by its wineries and local farms, making it a haven for those who love farm-to-table dining. Both cities cater to health-conscious individuals but in their unique ways, enriching your culinary journey.

San Francisco vs. Santa Rosa Restaurant Comparison

Embarking on a move can be an adventure, especially when it involves exploring new culinary landscapes. Food plays an essential role in making a place feel like home, and this comparison of top restaurants from San Francisco to Santa Rosa will help you discover your next favorite dining spots, making the transition as delicious as possible.

San FranciscoSanta RosaWhat You'll Love
State Bird ProvisionsWilli's Wine BarInventive small plates and a stellar wine selection mirror the State Bird experience.
Swan Oyster DepotWilli's Seafood & Raw BarFresh seafood and a casual atmosphere offer a similar vibe.
Tartine BakeryVillage BakeryArtisan bread and pastries that evoke the spirit of Tartine.
La TaqueriaTaqueria MolcajetesAuthentic Mexican cuisine with a focus on fresh ingredients.
NopaSpinster SistersA blend of local ingredients and creative dishes akin to Nopa's approach.
Zuni CaféStark's Steak & SeafoodClassic and elegant dining with a touch of Californian flair.
Foreign Cinema6th Street PlayhouseWhile not a restaurant, it offers a unique blend of dining and entertainment akin to Foreign Cinema.
The Slanted DoorSEA Thai BistroModern Thai cuisine with a Californian twist, much like The Slanted Door.
R&G LoungeKhom LoiQuality Chinese dishes with a focus on authenticity and flavor.
BenuBrasserieHigh-end dining emphasizing innovative dishes and exceptional service.

Exploring Santa Rosa's dining scene offers a thrilling adventure akin to the flavors and experiences of San Francisco's iconic eateries. Willi's Wine Bar, for instance, captures the innovative spirit of State Bird Provisions through its small, but impactful menu and outstanding wine list. Similarly, Village Bakery heralds the artisan ethos of Tartine Bakery, ensuring that lovers of handcrafted bread and pastries will feel right at home. On the quest for authenticity and a dash of local flare, Taqueria Molcajetes stands as Santa Rosa's answer to La Taqueria, promising an equally memorable Mexican dining experience. Diving into Santa Rosa's culinary offering is not just about finding equivalent establishments but uncovering new favorites that continue the Bay Area's legacy of diverse and dynamic food cultures.

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San Francisco vs. Santa Rosa Real Estate & Living Facts

Real estate is a crucial aspect when considering a move. Understanding how San Francisco and Santa Rosa compare in terms of housing will facilitate your decision-making. This comparison explores cost, architecture, and lifestyle to help you find your perfect home.

ComparisonSan FranciscoSanta Rosa
Typical Architecture StyleVictorian, ModernRanch, Contemporary
Walkability 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listingViews, Luxury FinishesFamily-Friendly, Large Yards

When comparing the housing market in San Francisco to Santa Rosa, the significant difference in median home prices and monthly rent stands out. For about half the price of a home in San Francisco, you could settle into a spacious residence in Santa Rosa, possibly enjoying a larger yard and more family-oriented amenities. The architectural styles also reflect the cities' distinct vibes: San Francisco's iconic Victorian and modern buildings juxtapose with Santa Rosa's ranch and contemporary homes, offering a more laid-back lifestyle. Although San Francisco scores higher in walkability and urban lifestyle, Santa Rosa provides a balance between bikeability and a less hectic city life, potentially making it a better fit for those seeking a quieter, more spacious living environment.

Pet-friendly neighborhoods background image

Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Santa Rosa, CA

1. Montgomery Village: With its numerous pathways and the nearby Howarth Park, your furry friends will enjoy countless hours of outdoor activity and socializing.

2. Oakmont: This neighborhood is known for its hiking club and proximity to Annadel State Park, offering expansive areas for you and your pets to explore the great outdoors together.

3. Bennett Valley: Home to the Galvin Community Park, which features a dedicated dog park where your pets can run free and socialize with other dogs in a safe and friendly environment.

San Francisco vs. Santa Rosa Weather Considerations

When considering a move from San Francisco, CA to Santa Rosa, CA, understanding the weather differences is crucial to adapting smoothly to your new environment. This comparison will guide you through how the climate changes, highlighting key aspects such as temperature, sunshine, and other weather-related conditions.

Summer icon
67°F / 54°F

San Francisco, CA

82°F / 51°F

Santa Rosa, CA

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
57°F / 46°F

San Francisco, CA

62°F / 40°F

Santa Rosa, CA

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
22

San Francisco, CA

36

Santa Rosa, CA

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
0

San Francisco, CA

0

Santa Rosa, CA

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

ComparisonSan FranciscoSanta Rosa
Air QualityGoodGood
Natural DisastersEarthquakes, FogEarthquakes, Wildfires
Days of Sunshine per Year☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. UV Index🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Avg. Annual Humidity💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦

In comparing San Francisco with Santa Rosa, you'll notice that while both cities enjoy a relatively mild climate, Santa Rosa experiences warmer summers and cooler winters. Additionally, Santa Rosa receives more annual rainfall, which contributes to its lush landscapes but also prepares for a differing outdoor experience. Familiarity with these conditions will allow for smoother acclimatization and overall experience in your new home.

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

When considering a move from San Francisco, CA to Santa Rosa, CA, analyzing the financial implications is crucial. Understanding how the cost of living, taxes, and average incomes in San Francisco compare with Santa Rosa can significantly affect your budget planning and lifestyle. This comparison aims to provide an insightful overview of these aspects to aid in your decision-making process.

ComparisonSan FranciscoSanta Rosa
Avg. Household Income$121,826$86,459
Cost of Living Index164136.4
State Income Tax13.313.3
Avg. Property Tax0.60.8
Avg. Sales Tax8.58.25
Top 3 IndustriesTechnology, Finance, TourismHealthcare, Manufacturing, Wine Production
AffluenceHighModerate
PovertyLowModerate
HomelessnessHighModerate

Transitioning from San Francisco to Santa Rosa, you'll notice significant financial changes. Despite both cities being in California and subject to the same state income tax, the cost of living in Santa Rosa is considerably lower. However, this comes with a trade-off. While the average household income in Santa Rosa doesn't match up to San Francisco's, it is important to weigh this against the lower living expenses. Housing is a notable factor, with San Francisco's average property tax being slightly lower, despite higher property values. Additionally, the shift in dominant industries from technology in San Francisco to healthcare and wine production in Santa Rosa suggests different occupational landscapes. This can be an opportunity or a challenge, depending on your career path.

San Francisco vs. Santa Rosa Political & Religious Comparison

In your journey from San Francisco to Santa Rosa, understanding the community you're moving into is crucial. This overview provides a comparison of the politics between San Francisco & Santa Rosa , offering a quick snapshot of the political and religious landscape you'll be transitioning into.

San FranciscoSanta Rosa
Political Make-upLiberal/DemocraticLiberal/Democratic
Local PoliticsProgressive PoliciesCommunity-Focused Initiatives
ReligionVaried, with a significant unaffiliated populationDiverse, with Christianity being predominant

Both San Francisco and Santa Rosa share a liberal and democratic political stance, reflecting California’s overall political climate. However, San Francisco is known for its progressive policies, focusing on issues like homelessness and environmental sustainability. In contrast, Santa Rosa takes a more community-focused approach, emphasizing local development and support programs. Religion in San Francisco is quite varied, with a significant number of residents identifying as unaffiliated. Meanwhile, Santa Rosa hosts a more traditional religious makeup, though still diverse, with a larger percentage of the population identifying as Christian. This blend of political and religious views shapes the unique cultural landscapes of both cities.

San Francisco vs. Santa Rosa Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

Moving from San Francisco, CA to Santa Rosa, CA, it's crucial to compare the traffic and transportation options between San Francisco & Santa Rosa to better understand what the daily commute and traffic is like. This insight will help you navigate your new environment with ease.

ComparisonSan FranciscoSanta Rosa
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)3426
Traffic Congestion 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦
Availability of Public Transit 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇
Can you get by without car?YesNo

Moving to Santa Rosa from San Francisco, you'll notice a significant change in your daily commute. Santa Rosa has less traffic congestion, with an average commute time of 26 minutes compared to San Francisco's 34. While San Francisco offers excellent public transportation that almost negates the need for a car, Santa Rosa's public transit options are more limited. Here, having your vehicle is almost essential for ease of movement. This shift means as you transition, ensuring access to personal transport will ease your adaptation to Santa Rosa's pace of life.

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