Best Oakland to Boston Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from Oakland to Boston and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 3,142 mile move from California to Massachusetts go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 59 Oakland to Boston 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 Stairhopper Movers), how much the move costs (approximately $3,000 - $11,000 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Oakland compared to Boston. 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 Oakland to Boston Moving Companies
| Rank | Company Name | Rating  | Affordability Index | License | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Stairhopper Movers | 9.66 | 9.62 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 2 | OCD Moving Services LLC | 9.66 | 9.47 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 3 | Centaur Moving | 9.60 | 9.79 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 4 | Fairprice Movers | 8.87 | 9.12 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 5 | Upline Moving | 8.60 | 8.62 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
(800) 787-5428Cost to Move from Oakland to Boston
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 3,142 miles from Oakland, CA to Boston, MA will cost on average $4,453 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Oakland to Boston move is roughly $10,775. 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 | $2,984 | 300 ft³ | 9.95 |
| 1 Bedroom | $4,453 | 450 ft³ | 9.90 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $7,384 | 750 ft³ | 9.85 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $10,775 | 1100 ft³ | 9.80 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $15,593 | 1600 ft³ | 9.75 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $17,453 | 1800 ft³ | 9.70 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Boston to Oakland guide.
Compare the 5 Best Oakland to Boston Movers
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
Stairhopper Movers
20 Harvard St
Boston, MA, 2129
About Stairhopper Movers
Since 2001, Stairhopper Movers has operated as a Boston-based local moving company that performs local and long-distance residential and commercial moves....
Services
- Local moves
- Long distance moves
- Commercial moves
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 1696867 / 623045 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 21 |
| Registered Drivers | 22 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 261,200 (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) |
Centaur Moving
This listing has been claimed by Centaur Moving171 Windsor St
Cambridge, MA, 02139
About Centaur Moving
Centaur Moving, based in Cambridge, Massachusetts, is a fully licensed and insured moving company with services for local and nationwide moves....
Services
- Local Moving
- Long Distance Moving
- Commercial Relocations
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3638077 / 1249051 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 2 |
| Registered Drivers | 3 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 20,000 (2022) |
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) |
Upline Moving
30956 San Clemente St
Hayward, CA, 94544
About Upline Moving
For smooth local, statewide, and nationwide residential relocations, Upline Moving is your trusted partner. Based in Hayward, it serves the community...
Services
- Residential movers
- Long distance movers
- Local movers
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 1881933 / 678648 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 7 |
| Registered Drivers | 5 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 150,000 (2012) |
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.
Oakland vs. Boston Neighborhood Comparison
Making a move to a new city can be daunting, especially when you're not familiar with the local neighborhoods. To ease this transition, we've created a guide that compares the popular neighborhoods of Oakland, CA & Boston, MA , helping you find a new home that matches your current vibe. By comparing these neighborhoods, we aim to make you feel more at home in an otherwise unfamiliar city.
| Oakland | Boston | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Rockridge | Brookline | Diverse food scene, vibrant community |
| Piedmont Avenue | Beacon Hill | Historic charm, walkable streets |
| Montclair | Charlestown | Family-friendly, close-knit community |
| Temescal | Allston | Young, eclectic vibe, buzzing nightlife |
| Jack London Square | Seaport District | Waterfront dining, modern living |
| Grand Lake | Back Bay | Upscale, with bustling avenues |
| West Oakland | Jamaica Plain | Diverse, with a creative spirit |
| Uptown | South End | Artsy, with a vibrant culinary scene |
| North Oakland | Fenway | Young and lively, close to parks |
| Lake Merritt | Cambridge | Intellectual vibe, green spaces |
If the waterfront views and dining options of Jack London Square have been a favorite of yours, you'll appreciate the Seaport District in Boston, where dining by the water is just as spellbinding, and modern living options abound. For those who love the artsy and vibrant culinary scene of Oakland's Uptown, Boston's South End offers an eclectic mix of galleries, boutiques, and restaurants such as Myers + Chang. Nature lovers transitioning from Lake Merritt's scenic beauty and community events will find solace and excitement in Cambridge's green spaces and intellectual environment, marked by its proximity to world-renowned institutions and historic sites like Harvard University.
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Oakland to Boston
Moving cities can be a monumental task, each location has its unique vibe and challenges. This comparison aims to give you an honest reflection of moving from Oakland, CA to Boston, MA , helping you weigh the good against the bad. Below, you'll find charts designed to offer a clear perspective on how living in Boston compares to Oakland and vice versa.
Oakland, CA- Higher cost of living
- Less public transit
- Less historical sites
Boston, MA- Rich history
- Better public transit
- More historical sites
Boston, MA- Harsh winters
- Smaller food scene
- Fewer outdoor spaces
Oakland, CA- Mild winters
- Diverse food scene
- More outdoor spaces
Boston's rich history and better public transit system offer new opportunities for exploration and convenience, such as visiting the Freedom Trail or easily navigating the city via the MBTA. However, it's also known for its harsh winters, a stark contrast to the mild winters you're used to in Oakland. Boston's food scene, while smaller, is condensed with history and famed establishments like Union Oyster House, America's oldest restaurant. On the other hand, Oakland's more temperate climate and diverse food scene, showcased in places like Temescal District, offer a different kind of appeal. While Boston may offer fewer outdoor spaces compared to Oakland's plentiful parks like Tilden Regional Park, it's home to the iconic Boston Public Garden, providing its unique green space for relaxation and leisure. When considering a move from Oakland to Boston, these factors play a significant role in the lifestyle adjustments required.
Oakland vs. Boston Food Guide
Food is an integral aspect of local culture and lifestyle. This comparison of the local cuisine between Oakland & Boston aims to give you a clearer idea of what culinary experiences await you as you make your big move. This insight will help you navigate your new food scene more smoothly.
| Oakland | Boston | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Sourdough Bread | Clam Chowder |
| Most popular meat dish | Korean BBQ | Lobster Roll |
| Most popular street food item | Tacos | Clam Chowder in a Bread Bowl |
| Most popular vegan food | Jackfruit Tacos | Seitan Sandwich |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
In Oakland, the food scene is remarkably diverse, reflecting its rich cultural mosaic. For instance, Korean BBQ, particularly from spots in the Temescal neighborhood, is a must-try meat dish, while the inventive jackfruit tacos highlight the city's thriving vegan scene. On the other hand, Boston's culinary offerings are deeply rooted in its historical ties to the sea, with the lobster roll and clam chowder standing as testaments to its seafood tradition. Restaurants like Neptune Oyster in the North End provide an excellent example of Boston's iconic seafood. Whether you're exploring the vegan-friendly eateries of Oakland or diving into the fertile seafood landscape of Boston, both cities offer a distinctive taste of local culture.
Oakland vs. Boston Restaurant Comparison
Finding a new favorite eatery can turn a new city into home. This restaurant comparison will help you transition from Oakland to Boston, using familiar flavors as your guide. Whether you're searching for high-end dining or a cozy nook, this chart aims to match your Oakland favorites with Boston's best.
| Oakland | Boston | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Commis | Oleana | Artistic presentations & inventive Mediterranean flavors |
| Shan Dong Restaurant | Gene's Chinese Flatbread Cafe | Hand-pulled noodles & authentic Chinese cuisines |
| Brown Sugar Kitchen | Buttermilk & Bourbon | Comforting Southern dishes with a twist |
| The Cook and Her Farmer | Neptune Oyster | Fresh seafood & cozy atmosphere |
| Mua | The Beehive | Eclectic eats with an artsy vibe |
| Belotti Ristorante e Bottega | Giulia | Handmade pastas in an intimate setting |
| Homeroom | Trina's Starlite Lounge | Innovative takes on American comfort food |
| Drake's Dealership | Lord Hobo | Wide beer selection & upscale pub fare |
| Chop Bar | The Gallows | Lively gastropub with unique dishes |
| Grand Lake Kitchen | Juliet | Seasonal, locally sourced ingredients in a casual yet elegant setting |
Translating your culinary favorites when moving from Oakland to Boston means discovering new places that echo those familiar tastes and vibes. For instance, if you're missing the comforting Southern dishes from Brown Sugar Kitchen, Buttermilk & Bourbon in Boston offers an East Coast take on this cuisine with a creative flair. Similarly, lovers of Shan Dong Restaurant's hand-pulled noodles will find a comforting echo in Gene's Chinese Flatbread Cafe, praised for its authentic Xi'an dishes and remarkable noodle craftsmanship. It's about more than just matching menus; it's about finding those spots where the ambiance, the flavors, and the spirit of cooking speak in a language you understand—an essential part of feeling at home in a new city.
Ready to start your move?
Oakland vs. Boston Real Estate & Living Facts
When planning a move, understanding the real estate landscape of your destination is crucial. This comparison offers key insights into the housing market of Oakland and Boston, illuminating differences and commonalities that can impact your decision-making process.
| Comparison | Oakland | Boston |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Victorian and Modern | Federal and Victorian |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Gourmet kitchens, open floor plans | Historic details, proximity to public transport |
Both Oakland and Boston offer vibrant urban lifestyles, but Boston scores higher in walkability and urban lifestyle, reflecting its dense, historic neighborhoods and extensive public transit system. Oakland's real estate market emphasizes modern amenities like gourmet kitchens and open floor plans, catering to contemporary tastes, while Boston's market prides itself on historic details and accessibility. These distinctions echo the cities' architectural diversity, with Oakland favoring a mix of Victorian and modern styles and Boston cherishing its Federal and Victorian buildings. Understanding these nuances will help you find a home that meets your lifestyle needs and aesthetic preferences.
Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Boston, MA
1. South End: Known for its charming, tree-lined streets and the spacious Peter's Park, which features a dedicated dog run area where your pets can play off-leash.
2. Jamaica Plain: With its proximity to the extensive trails and green spaces of the Arnold Arboretum and Jamaica Pond, Jamaica Plain offers endless outdoor activities for you and your four-legged friends.
3. Beacon Hill: This neighborhood is not only picturesque but also boasts pet-friendly dining options and easy access to the Boston Common, the oldest public park in America with ample space for your pets to explore.
Oakland vs. Boston Weather Considerations
Moving between cities is a significant step, and understanding how your new home's weather compares to what you're used to is crucial. This comparison will shed light on the climate differences between Oakland and Boston, emphasizing the change in weather patterns, seasonal variations, and other related factors to help you better prepare for your move.
Oakland, CA
Boston, MA
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Oakland, CA
Boston, MA
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Oakland, CA
Boston, MA
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Oakland, CA
Boston, MA
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Oakland | Boston |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Good | Moderate |
| Natural Disasters | Earthquakes | Blizzards, Nor'easters |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | 260 days | 200 days |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
When comparing Oakland and Boston, several key weather differences stand out that could significantly impact your daily life and seasonal preparations. Unlike Oakland's mild, dry summer and moderate winter, Boston experiences hot summers and bitterly cold winters with considerable snowfall, averaging 48 inches annually. This contrast underscores the importance of preparing for winter in Boston with adequate clothing and snow removal equipment. Furthermore, Boston's higher annual rainfall and potential for blizzards and Nor'easters highlight the need for weather-awareness and emergency preparedness. Adjusting to these differing climates will be an essential part of your move.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Oakland to Boston
When considering a move from one city to another, it's crucial to compare how your finances will be affected. This comparison will give you insight into the financial implications of moving from Oakland to Boston, focusing on various economic factors that might influence your decision.
| Comparison | Oakland | Boston |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $82,236 | $79,283 |
| Cost of Living Index | 139.1 | 132.5 |
| State Income Tax | 9.3 | 5.0 |
| Avg. Property Tax | 0.74 | 1.13 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 9.25 | 6.25 |
| Top 3 Industries | Technology, Health, Education | Education, Finance, Technology |
| Affluence | Moderate | High |
| Poverty | Noticeable | Moderate |
| Homelessness | Significant | Concerning |
Both Oakland and Boston share a high cost of living index, yet they present distinct challenges and opportunities. For instance, the average household income in Boston slightly exceeds that of Oakland, which might be attributed to Boston's prominence in the finance and education sectors. However, when you factor in state income tax rates, you'll retain more of your earnings in Boston compared to Oakland. Nevertheless, the average property tax rate in Boston is higher, which could affect your long-term financial planning if you intend to purchase a home. These factors underline the importance of a nuanced approach when evaluating the two cities from a financial perspective.
Oakland vs. Boston Political & Religious Comparison
Moving from Oakland, CA, to Boston, MA, brings about significant changes, not just in geography but in the societal makeup as well. This guide provides a quick, at-a-glance snapshot comparing the politics and religious makeup between Oakland & Boston, aiming to better prepare you for the cultural shift.
| Oakland | Boston | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Strongly Liberal | Liberal |
| Local Politics | Progressive Policies | Historically Democratic |
| Religion | Diverse, with significant non-religious community | Mixed, with a sizable Catholic community |
In transitioning from Oakland to Boston, you'll move between two cities that both lean liberal but express it in distinct ways. Oakland's political scene is known for its progressive policies, reflecting a population that champions social justice and equity. In contrast, Boston's political landscape is rooted in a historically Democratic stance, blending traditional and progressive values. Religious landscapes differ as well, with Oakland presenting a tapestry of beliefs and a notably large non-religious community. Boston, while diverse, has a notable presence of Catholic communities, reflecting its historical and demographic patterns. Understanding these nuances will help ease your transition and enrich your experience in your new home.
Oakland vs. Boston Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
When moving from Oakland, CA to Boston, MA, understanding the difference between traffic and transportation options can significantly impact your daily commute. This comparison aims to give you a clearer picture of what to expect in your new city regarding driving and public transit.
| Comparison | Oakland | Boston |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 29.3 | 30.4 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | Possible, but challenging | Easier, especially within city limits |
In Oakland, the average commute time is slightly less than in Boston, but getting around can be more challenging without a car. The Bay Area has a decent public transit system, including buses and the BART, but it's not as comprehensive or as user-friendly as Boston's MBTA, which covers a wider area and offers more frequent service. Traffic congestion is a common issue in both cities, with Oakland experiencing slightly more congestion. That said, Boston scores higher in terms of public transportation availability and the feasibility of living car-free, thanks to its compact city layout and extensive transit network.
Additional Resources
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Popular Oakland to Massachusetts Routes
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