Best Sunnyvale to Oakland Movers + Moving Guide

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If you're moving from Sunnyvale to Oakland and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 44 mile long distance California move go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 105 Sunnyvale to Oakland 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 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 Sunnyvale 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.

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Best Sunnyvale to Oakland Moving Companies

RankCompany NameRating QuestionAffordability IndexContact
1Sweet Lemon Moving Services9.779.67Contact
2Quantum Moving9.709.78Contact
3California Loyal Movers9.649.6Contact
4One Move Movers9.619.24Contact
5Pure Moving Company9.549.01Contact
Phone (800) 787-5428

Cost to Move from Sunnyvale to Oakland

Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 44 miles from Sunnyvale, CA to Oakland, CA will cost on average $1,819 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Sunnyvale to Oakland move is roughly $4,336. 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$1,227300 ft³4.09
1 Bedroom$1,819450 ft³4.04
2 Bedrooms$2,994750 ft³3.99
3 Bedrooms$4,3361100 ft³3.94
4 Bedrooms$6,2261600 ft³3.89
5+ Bedrooms$6,9151800 ft³3.84
*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 Oakland to Sunnyvale guide.

Compare the 5 Best Sunnyvale to Oakland 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
California Loyal Movers Logo

California Loyal Movers

Exceptional9.64/10
based on 2,681+ data points

999 Commercial St # 206

Palo Alto, CA, 94303

About California Loyal Movers

Located in Palo Alto, California Loyal Movers has a proven track record of helping people and businesses in the Bay Area...

Services

  • Local moves
  • Long-distance moves
  • Loading and unloading services

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2020505 / -

Not Authorized

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans3
Registered Drivers2
Total Annual Miles Moved1 (2018)
View Full Review
3
One Move Movers Logo

One Move Movers

Exceptional9.61/10
based on 5,185+ data points

796 San Antonio Rd Suite: B

Palo Alto, CA, 94303

About One Move Movers

Founded in 2003, One Move Movers has been helping people in the San Jose, CA, area move for nearly 20 years....

Services

  • Residential Moves
  • Office Moving Services
  • Commercial Moves

Interstate Moving License

Circle X Mark
Not Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 12/17/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3499845 / -

Not Authorized

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans1
Registered Drivers1
Total Annual Miles Moved80,000 (2021)
View Full Review
4
Pure Moving Company Logo

Pure Moving Company

Exceptional9.54/10
based on 2,575+ data points

111 N Market St Suite 300

San Jose, CA, 95113

About Pure Moving Company

Founded in Los Angeles more than a decade ago, Pure Moving Company provides comprehensive door-to-door residential and commercial moving services at...

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.

Sunnyvale vs. Oakland Neighborhood Comparison

When considering a move from Sunnyvale, CA to Oakland, CA, finding a new neighborhood that feels like home can be challenging. This guide aims to compare the local neighborhoods between Sunnyvale, CA & Oakland, CA , helping you find a similar community vibe, amenities, and character in your new city by using your current city as a reference point.

SunnyvaleOaklandHow They're Similar
Sunnyvale WestRockridgeVibrant commercial district, family-friendly
Heritage DistrictPiedmont AvenueEclectic mix of dining, shopping
SnailTemescalDiverse, rich community culture
PonderosaMontclairHilly terrain, scenic views
BirdlandLaurelStrong sense of community spirit
Lakewood VillageDimond DistrictVibrant, close-knit community feel
CherryhillGlenviewCozy, quiet residential area
OrtegaGrand LakeLakeside parks, bustling marketplaces
SerraRedwood HeightsSerene, with beautiful landscapes
FairoaksNorthgateArtsy vibe, close to urban amenities

Relocating from one city to another offers a fresh opportunity to explore new neighborhoods that echo the familiar comforts of your old haunts. If you've enjoyed the vibrant, community-focused lifestyle of Sunnyvale West, the bustling streets and family-friendly atmosphere of Rockridge in Oakland will feel like home. On the other hand, for those coming from the heritage-rich environment of the Heritage District, the diverse culinary scene and unique shops along Piedmont Avenue offer a similar eclectic charm. Fans of open spaces and scenic views in Ponderosa will find Montclair's hillside parks and woodsy ambience quite endearing. Whether you're looking for lively commercial areas, serene landscapes, or cozy residential streets, these Oakland neighborhoods provide the perfect backdrop to start your next chapter.

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Pros and Cons of Moving from Sunnyvale to Oakland

Moving between cities can be a multifaceted decision, laden with both opportunities and challenges. This guide aims to provide an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of relocating from Sunnyvale, CA to Oakland, CA . Through comparing pros and cons, we hope to offer a balanced viewpoint that will help in making an informed decision.

CONs
PROs
Sunnyvale, CA iconSunnyvale, CA
  • Higher living costs
  • Lesser cultural diversity
  • Smaller tech community
  • Far from Oakland's nightlife
Oakland, CA iconOakland, CA
  • More affordable housing
  • Rich cultural diversity
  • Larger tech scene
  • Lively nightlife
Oakland, CA iconOakland, CA
  • More urban
  • Less personal
  • Varied school quality
  • Fewer tech job options
Sunnyvale, CA iconSunnyvale, CA
  • Quiet suburban feel
  • Close-knit community
  • Excellent public schools
  • Plenty of tech jobs

Moving to Oakland from Sunnyvale opens up a canvas painted with the vibrant colors of diverse cultures and the dynamic strokes of a thriving tech scene. Oakland's nightlife, exemplified by establishments like The Fox Theater and Ordinaire, offers an array of experiences from live music to unique wine bars. Meanwhile, the presence of bustling markets like the Oakland City Center contrasts with Sunnyvale's quieter, suburban charm. Yet, it's important to note that while Oakland promises an urban adventure with potential for more affordable housing and a larger tech community, it's met with the compromise of transitioning from the exceptional public schools and the close-knit community Sunnyvale is known for. Choosing between these distinct living experiences depends on personal preferences for lifestyle, career, and community.

Sunnyvale vs. Oakland Food Guide

Food is a crucial aspect of local culture and living experience. In this guide, we'll dive into a comparison of the local cuisine between Sunnyvale & Oakland to better inform you about the food scene at your new home.

SunnyvaleOakland
Most iconic local food itemArtisanal Silicon Valley Start-up SnacksCalifornia Soul Food
Most popular meat dishKorean BBQBBQ Brisket
Most popular street food itemTacosBanh Mi
Most popular vegan foodVegan RamenJackfruit Tacos
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
  • Dishdash
  • Falafel's Drive-In
  • Muracci's
  • Brown Sugar Kitchen
  • Commis
  • Shakewell
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
Abundance of Food Trucks🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
Foodie Scene🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

Both Sunnyvale and Oakland offer vibrant and diverse food scenes reflective of their eclectic populations. In Sunnyvale, you'll find a strong influence of Asian cuisines with top spots like Dishdash bringing Middle Eastern flavors to the forefront, while Muracci's serves up some of the best Japanese comfort food. In contrast, Oakland, with its higher vegan friendliness score, showcases a wide array of plant-based options. Jackfruit Tacos at local eateries represent just a slice of the inventive vegan scene. The city's soul food, particularly celebrated at Brown Sugar Kitchen, features a modern twist on traditional recipes, narrating Oakland’s rich cultural tapestry. Oakland's higher scores in foodie scene and health conscientiousness also indicate a community that values both innovation in food and wellness.

Sunnyvale vs. Oakland Restaurant Comparison

Food is a key ingredient in making a place feel like home. This restaurant comparison from Sunnyvale to Oakland is designed to help you transition smoothly by finding your new favorite spots based on what you already love. Moving can be daunting, but discovering delightful places to eat should be an exciting adventure.

SunnyvaleOaklandWhat You'll Love
DishdashReem's CaliforniaAuthentic Middle Eastern fare with a Californian twist
Falafel STOPBa-BiteFast casual Israeli eatery with similarities in menu and freshness
Philz CoffeeRed Bay Coffee RoastersSpecialty coffee with a strong community vibe
Murphy's LawThe TrappistBoth offer a great selection of craft beers in a cozy atmosphere
Madras CafeDosa by DosaVibrant Southern Indian cuisine that parallels the authenticity
Armadillo Willy's BBQEverett & Jones BBQDeep-rooted American BBQ with a soulful touch
Himalayan KitchenUrban CurryOffers a similar hearty and exotic Himalayan and Indian menu
Le Petit BistroMuaAmerican eats with a unique flair, akin to Le Petit Bistro’s French twist
Roberto's CantinaCosechaBoth are known for their authentic Mexican flavors and fresh ingredients
Lilly Mac'sBeer RevolutionA vast beer selection meets pub fare in a lively setting

Each restaurant pairing, from Dishdash to Reem's California, offers you a lens through which to explore and embrace the diverse culinary tapestry of your new city. For instance, the transition from Dishdash's Middle Eastern delicacies to Reem's California ensures you won't miss the vibrant flavors and warm hospitality you've grown to adore. Similarly, coffee enthusiasts transitioning from Philz Coffee to Red Bay Coffee Roasters will find solace in the latter's dedication to sustainability and community-building, alongside their exceptional brews. It's not just about finding a meal; it's about discovering spaces that resonate with the tastes and experiences you cherish, allowing you to weave new memories into the fabric of Oakland.

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Sunnyvale vs. Oakland Real Estate & Living Facts

When considering a move, one of the most pivotal factors to evaluate is real estate. Understanding how Sunnyvale and Oakland compare in terms of housing is essential for making an informed decision. This comparison will highlight key aspects such as cost, architecture, and lifestyle to aid in your transition.

ComparisonSunnyvaleOakland
Typical Architecture StyleMid-Century ModernVictorian & Craftsman
Walkability 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listingProximity to tech companiesDiverse communities, Access to arts and culture

When delving deeper into the housing landscapes of Sunnyvale and Oakland, several nuances emerge. Sunnyvale's proximity to Silicon Valley's tech companies boosts its median home price, making it one of the pricier locales in the Bay Area. On the other hand, Oakland offers a more diverse architectural palette, including Victorian and Craftsman homes, at a more accessible median price. The city's urban lifestyle score is high due to its vibrant arts scene, diverse communities, and amenities like public parks and cultural events. Both cities provide different appeals, with Oakland standing out for its walkability and bikeability, making it an increasingly attractive destination for those who prioritize an active and engaging urban environment.

Sunnyvale vs. Oakland Weather Considerations

When moving from Sunnyvale, CA to Oakland, CA, it's crucial to understand how the weather patterns will change. This comparison provides insights into what weather differences you can expect. Knowing these differences enables a smoother transition and helps you prepare for your new environment in Sunnyvale and Oakland .

Summer icon
81°F / 57°F

Sunnyvale, CA

73°F / 57°F

Oakland, CA

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
58°F / 39°F

Sunnyvale, CA

58°F / 44°F

Oakland, CA

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
15

Sunnyvale, CA

23

Oakland, CA

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
0

Sunnyvale, CA

0

Oakland, CA

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

ComparisonSunnyvaleOakland
Air QualityGoodModerate
Natural DisastersEarthquakesEarthquakes, Fires
Days of Sunshine per Year☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. UV Index🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Avg. Annual Humidity💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦

Moving from Sunnyvale to Oakland, you'll notice a slight decrease in summer temperatures and an increase in winter lows, making Oakland's climate somewhat milder overall. While both locations enjoy plenty of sunshine, Oakland experiences more rainfall annually, which can contribute to its lusher landscapes. Air quality in Oakland is considered moderate, influenced by its closer proximity to industrial areas and the bay, which might be a consideration if you're sensitive to such conditions. Even with these differences, both cities share a similar UV index and seasonal allergies, providing some continuity in what to expect year-round.

Ready to start your move?

Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Sunnyvale to Oakland

When relocating from Sunnyvale, CA to Oakland, CA , it's crucial to understand how these two distinctive cities stack up in financial terms . Grasping the differences in cost of living, taxes, and income can ease your transition and help you budget effectively for your new life.

ComparisonSunnyvaleOakland
Avg. Household Income$156,059$82,236
Cost of Living Index136.4139.1
State Income Tax9.39.3
Avg. Property Tax0.790.75
Avg. Sales Tax9.2510.25
Top 3 IndustriesTechnology, Manufacturing, RetailHealthcare, Education, Business Services
AffluenceHighModerate to High
PovertyLowModerate
HomelessnessLowHigh

Relocating from Sunnyvale to Oakland will introduce you to a significantly different economic landscape. Although both cities are subject to the same state income tax rate, the stark contrast in average household income and cost of living could affect your financial planning. Sunnyvale's technology-driven economy supports higher average incomes and a higher cost of living index than Oakland. However, Oakland's diverse economy, which includes sectors like healthcare and education, still affords a decent quality of life but with a lower average income. Understanding these distinctions will enable you to prepare adequately for your move, help in setting realistic expectations, and assist in managing your finances effectively in your new city.

Sunnyvale vs. Oakland Political & Religious Comparison

Planning your move from Sunnyvale, CA to Oakland, CA? It's essential to understand the communities you're transitioning between. This comparison gives you a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents, highlighting the differences in politics between Sunnyvale & Oakland and their respective religious landscapes.

SunnyvaleOakland
Political Make-upLean liberalHighly liberal
Local PoliticsModerately engagedHighly engaged
ReligionDiverseMore diverse with strong community ties

In Sunnyvale, the political climate leans liberal, but in Oakland, you'll find a more pronounced liberal atmosphere. This is particularly reflected in the local politics, where Oakland residents are known for their high level of engagement in political activities and community advocacy. Meanwhile, both cities boast diverse religious communities. However, Oakland stands out for its vibrant religious scenes that span across various faiths, fostering strong community ties and support networks among its residents. As you make your move, understanding these dynamics will help you adapt to your new home's social fabric more easily.

Sunnyvale vs. Oakland Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

When planning a move from Sunnyvale to Oakland, it's vital to understand the differences in traffic and transportation options between Sunnyvale & Oakland. This comparison will help you gauge what to expect in terms of daily commutes and navigating each city.

ComparisonSunnyvaleOakland
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)2530
Traffic Congestion 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦
Availability of Public Transit 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇
Can you get by without car?ChallengingPossible

While Sunnyvale offers a relatively moderate commute time and traffic congestion levels, Oakland presents slightly higher challenges in terms of traffic but compensates with better public transit options. In Oakland, the high availability of public transit makes it feasible to navigate the city without a personal vehicle, unlike in Sunnyvale, where a car is almost essential for convenience. This highlights the importance of factoring in your lifestyle and commuting preferences when making a move.

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