Best San Francisco to Tampa Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from San Francisco to Tampa and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 2,886 mile move from California to Florida go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 24 San Francisco to Tampa 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 OCD Moving Services LLC), how much the move costs (approximately $3,000 - $10,000 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in San Francisco compared to Tampa. 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 San Francisco to Tampa Moving Companies
| Rank | Company Name | Rating  | Affordability Index | License | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | OCD Moving Services LLC | 9.66 | 9.47 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 2 | Bay - L.A. Express Moving | 9.32 | 9.49 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 3 | Careful Movers | 9.31 | 8.63 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 4 | Let's Get Moving | 9.14 | 9.26 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 5 | Two Men and a Truck | 9.06 | 8.51 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
(800) 787-5428Cost to Move from San Francisco to Tampa
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 2,886 miles from San Francisco, CA to Tampa, FL will cost on average $4,235 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom San Francisco to Tampa move is roughly $10,243. 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 | $2,839 | 300 ft³ | 9.46 |
| 1 Bedroom | $4,235 | 450 ft³ | 9.41 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $7,022 | 750 ft³ | 9.36 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $10,243 | 1100 ft³ | 9.31 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $14,819 | 1600 ft³ | 9.26 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $16,582 | 1800 ft³ | 9.21 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Tampa to San Francisco guide.
Compare the 5 Best San Francisco to Tampa Movers
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
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) |
Bay - L.A. Express Moving
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
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 1396171 / 530464 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 2 |
| Registered Drivers | 3 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 60,000 (2022) |
Careful Movers
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
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 1464935 / 553377 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 14 |
| Registered Drivers | 14 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 90,000 (2022) |
Let's Get Moving
6599 Haines Rd N
St. Petersburg, FL, 33702
About Let's Get Moving
This locally-owned moving company has been serving the St. Petersburg, FL, area since 2004. Let's Get Moving is a well-known Florida...
Services
- Commercial moving services
- Residential moving services
- Local moving services
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2270761 / 775415 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 6 |
| Registered Drivers | 6 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 78,000 (2023) |
Two Men and a Truck
2549 Seven Springs Blvd
New Port Richey, FL, 34655
About Two Men and a Truck
Two Men and a Truck is a full-service, national moving company in Florida with over 35 years of experience. With a...
Services
- Local moving
- Junk removal
- Storage
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2113690 / FF-19726
812151 Authorized For Property, HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 10 |
| Registered Drivers | 13 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 310,000 (2023) |
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.
San Francisco vs. Tampa Neighborhood Comparison
Moving can be a thrilling yet daunting experience, especially when relocating to a completely new city. To ease this transition, we're offering a guide that uniquely compares San Francisco, CA & Tampa, FL local neighborhoods . This comparison is designed to help you familiarize yourself with Tampa by using San Francisco's popular neighborhoods as a baseline, allowing you to find a new home that mirrors the community vibe you love.
| San Francisco | Tampa | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Marina District | Hyde Park | Vibrant, upscale shopping |
| Mission District | Seminole Heights | Eclectic, artistic community |
| Nob Hill | Bayshore Beautiful | Affluent, historic charm |
| SoMa (South of Market) | Channelside | Modern, urban living |
| Haight-Ashbury | Ybor City | Rich history, vibrant nightlife |
| Pacific Heights | Harbour Island | Exclusive, luxurious lifestyle |
| North Beach | Davis Islands | Quaint, island community |
| Inner Sunset | Temple Terrace | Family-friendly, academic atmosphere |
| Richmond District | Westchase | Suburban feel, plenty of parks |
| The Castro | Palma Ceia | Welcoming, active LGBTQ+ scene |
For those accustomed to the eclectic mix of culture, dining, and vibrant street life in San Francisco's Mission District, you'll find a similar spirited atmosphere in Tampa's Seminole Heights. Both neighborhoods boast a wealth of local art, with Seminole Heights offering unique finds at spots like Cleanse Apothecary or indulging in creative cuisine at Ella's Americana Folk Art Cafe. On the other hand, if the upscale, seaside vibe of the Marina District is what you treasure, Hyde Park will appeal to you with its luxury shopping at Hyde Park Village and scenic views along Bayshore Boulevard. For those seeking a neighborhood with historical charm akin to Nob Hill, Bayshore Beautiful offers a glimpse into Tampa's past with beautiful historic homes and the iconic Bayshore Boulevard, known for its long waterfront sidewalk.
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from San Francisco to Tampa
Deciding to move from San Francisco, CA to Tampa, FL warrants a detailed exploration of both the difficult and advantageous aspects of such a relocation. The transition between these cities presents distinct lifestyle changes. Through comparative charts, we aim to honestly reflect the upsides and downsides to give you a balanced perspective. Let's delve into comparing and contrasting the specifics of leaving the Bay Area for Tampa Bay.
San Francisco, CA- High living costs
- Chilly summers
- Dense population
- Competitive job market
Tampa, FL- More affordable
- Warmer weather
- Spacious living
- Growing opportunities
Tampa, FL- Less diversity
- Fewer tech jobs
- Fewer landmarks
- More limited options
San Francisco, CA- Diverse culture
- Innovative tech scene
- Iconic landmarks
- Rich culinary scene
While the move from San Francisco, CA to Tampa, FL introduces a change in living costs and weather, it's the cultural nuances and lifestyle changes that truly encapsulate the experience. Tampa's affordability allows you to enjoy a wider range of housing options, from waterfront properties to quaint suburban homes. The city is not without its charm, with Ybor City offering a vibrant night life and Channelside impressing with its upscale dining and shopping. Tampa's warmer climate invites outdoor enthusiasts to explore its many parks and beaches year-round, a notable shift from San Francisco's cooler, foggy weather. While Tampa might have fewer tech opportunities, its economy is diversifying, presenting new possibilities in different sectors. The transition from San Francisco's iconic culinary scene to Tampa's growing foodie culture means you can still indulge in delicious meals, be it at Edison: Food+Drink Lab or enjoying authentic Cuban sandwiches at Columbia Restaurant in Ybor City. Although each city has its own unique offerings, both provide enriching environments to call home.
San Francisco vs. Tampa Food Guide
Food greatly enriches our understanding of local culture and the overall vibe of a place. This is a comparison of the local cuisine between San Francisco & Tampa so you can better understand what culinary delights await you in your new city.
| San Francisco | Tampa | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Sourdough Bread | Cuban Sandwich |
| Most popular meat dish | Clam Chowder in a Sourdough Bowl | Deviled Crab |
| Most popular street food item | Mission Burrito | Empanadas |
| Most popular vegan food | Avocado Toast | Vegan Cuban Sandwich |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
Exploring San Francisco, you'll quickly notice the abundance of food trucks, offering a wide variety of cuisines, with a particular emphasis on healthy and vegan options. Neighborhoods like the Mission District are famous for their street food, especially the Mission Burrito. Meanwhile, in Tampa, the historic Ybor City is not only a cultural landmark but also the birthplace of the Cuban Sandwich. Both cities boast a rich foodie scene, though San Francisco has a slight edge in terms of vegan offerings and health-conscious dining. Tampa's Columbia Restaurant, located in the Ybor City, is a must-visit for anyone wanting to dive deep into the local cuisine, offering a blend of Spanish, Cuban, and Italian dishes.
San Francisco vs. Tampa Restaurant Comparison
Finding a place that feels like home is essential when moving to a new city, and food plays a huge role in that. This restaurant comparison between San Francisco and Tampa will guide you in discovering new favorite spots that mirror the culinary experience of your current hometown.
| San Francisco | Tampa | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Zuni Café | Bern's Steak House | iconic dining with a vast wine selection |
| Tartine Bakery | Datz | comfort food and bakery delights |
| Nopa | Rooster & the Till | modern American fare in a cozy setting |
| Foreign Cinema | CineBistro | dine-in cinema with upscale menu options |
| La Taqueria | Taco Bus | authentic Mexican street food experience |
| Slanted Door | Bamboozle Café | modern Vietnamese cuisine in a chic atmosphere |
| Gary Danko | Edison: Food+Drink Lab | innovative dishes in an upscale setting |
| Mission Chinese Food | Hawker's Asian Street Fare | vibrant flavors from various Asian cuisines |
| Sourdough Bakery | Pane Rustica | artisanal breads and European cafe vibes |
| The Progress | Ulele | native-inspired dishes and a rustic ambiance |
Embracing your new city means diving into its culinary scene, and Tampa offers excellent parallels to the beloved eateries of San Francisco. For example, if you're missing the iconic Zuni Café, Bern's Steak House in Tampa will captivate you with its exceptional dining and extensive wine collection. Bakeries hold a special place in San Francisco's heart, and Tampa's Datz provides a comparable comfort with its own take on bakery delights, ensuring a smooth transition. Similarly, fans of the vibrant and diverse flavors at Mission Chinese Food can find solace in Hawker's Asian Street Fare, offering a tapestry of Asian flavors that echo the culinary diversity of San Francisco. These establishments not only serve delicious food but also embody the spirit and culture of their respective cities, making your transition from San Francisco to Tampa a flavorful journey.
Ready to start your move?
San Francisco vs. Tampa Real Estate & Living Facts
When planning a move, comparing real estate between your current and future city is crucial. Understanding how San Francisco and Tampa stack up in terms of housing costs, architecture, and lifestyle can greatly influence your decision. Let's dive into the specifics.
| Comparison | San Francisco | Tampa |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Victorian and Modern | Bungalow and Mediterranean |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Views, luxury amenities | Outdoor living spaces, proximity to water |
While San Francisco offers iconic Victorian homes and unparalleled urban appeal, with a high walkability score indicating most errands can be accomplished on foot, the cost of living reflects this desirability. On the other hand, Tampa presents a more affordable housing market, with median home prices and rents significantly lower than in San Francisco. The architecture in Tampa favors bungalow and Mediterranean styles, catering to a lifestyle that blends indoor and outdoor living, often emphasized by real estate listings highlighting proximity to water and outdoor amenities. Although Tampa may offer a less urban experience based on its scores, it compensates with its unique blend of affordability, style, and access to Florida's scenic landscapes.
San Francisco vs. Tampa Weather Considerations
Moving from one city to another means adapting to new weather patterns. Understanding how the climate in San Francisco compares to Tampa will help you prepare for the changes. From average temperatures to the threat of natural disasters, this comparison will guide you through what to expect in your new home.
San Francisco, CA
Tampa, FL
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
San Francisco, CA
Tampa, FL
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
San Francisco, CA
Tampa, FL
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
San Francisco, CA
Tampa, FL
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | San Francisco | Tampa |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Good | Moderate |
| Natural Disasters | Earthquakes | Hurricanes |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
When moving from San Francisco to Tampa, you'll experience a significant change in weather, most notably in summer temperatures and humidity levels. Tampa's summers are much hotter and can feel more oppressive due to similar humidity levels but higher temperatures compared to San Francisco. Additionally, while San Francisco residents might be used to preparing for earthquakes, in Tampa, the primary natural disaster concern shifts to hurricanes. This change necessitates a different approach to emergency preparedness. Moreover, Tampa's greater annual rainfall indicates a more humid and lush environment, which might affect those with specific allergies more acutely.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from San Francisco to Tampa
When planning a move from San Francisco, CA to Tampa, FL, it's crucial to grasp the financial differences you'll encounter. This comparison aims to shed light on such disparities, focusing on key economic factors. Specifically, the chart below will provide insights into how the cost of living, taxes, and the job market in San Francisco compare to Tampa , highlighting the economic landscape you're transitioning into.
| Comparison | San Francisco | Tampa |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $121,826 | $63,404 |
| Cost of Living Index | 164 | 92.4 |
| State Income Tax | 13.3 | 0 |
| Avg. Property Tax | 0.6 | 0.9 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 8.5 | 7 |
| Top 3 Industries | Technology, Finance, Tourism | Healthcare, Retail, Finance |
| Affluence | High | Moderate |
| Poverty | Low | Moderate |
| Homelessness | High | Low |
Moving from San Francisco to Tampa will introduce you to a different financial landscape. Your average household income might differ significantly, reflecting Tampa's more moderate cost of living, which is only a fraction of what you're used to in San Francisco. However, this transition also comes with benefits, such as Florida's absence of state income tax, which potentially increases your disposable income. While San Francisco's top industries include Technology and Finance, Tampa boasts strengths in Healthcare and Finance, suggesting diverse yet thriving job markets. Understanding these differences will help you prepare for your new life in Tampa, financially speaking.
San Francisco vs. Tampa Political & Religious Comparison
When considering a move from San Francisco, CA, to Tampa, FL, it's essential to get a quick snapshot of how the cities differ, especially in terms of comparison of the politics between San Francisco & Tampa and the religious landscape. This quick glance aims to help you better understand the social fabric of your new home.
| San Francisco | Tampa | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Liberal/Democratic | Moderately Conservative/Varies |
| Local Politics | Progressive policies | Mixed, leans conservative |
| Religion | Less religiously affiliated | More religiously diverse |
San Francisco is widely recognized for its liberal stance and progressive policies. This contrasts with Tampa's political environment, where the scene is more varied, with a moderate conservative leaning in local politics, reflecting a broader spectrum of political beliefs. Tampans exhibit a more diverse religious landscape, with stronger ties to various faiths compared to San Francisco's population, which tends to be less religiously affiliated. This significant difference in the political and religious makeup can impact your day-to-day life, from the policies that affect your community to the types of social and cultural activities available. Understanding these nuances will help you navigate your new environment more effectively.
San Francisco vs. Tampa Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Moving from San Francisco, CA to Tampa, FL? Understanding the differences in traffic and transportation options between San Francisco & Tampa will help you better grasp what your daily commute and traffic experiences will be like. This comparison aims to equip you with insights to make your transition smoother.
| Comparison | San Francisco | Tampa |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 34 | 26 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | Yes | No |
When moving from San Francisco to Tampa, you'll find that the average commute time in Tampa is shorter, allowing for more leisure or family time. San Francisco, known for its significant traffic congestion, might prepare you for navigating Tampa’s slightly less congested roads. However, the stark difference lies in public transport options. San Francisco’s well-established public transit system, ranked high, means you could easily get by without owning a car. On the contrary, Tampa’s public transit scores lower, making a car almost a necessity for commuting and exploring the city efficiently. Adjusting to these transportation differences will be an important part of your move.
Additional Resources
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