Best San Francisco to Boston Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from San Francisco to Boston and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 3,148 mile move from California to Massachusetts go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 58 San Francisco 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 San Francisco 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 San Francisco 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 | Bay - L.A. Express Moving | 9.32 | 9.49 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 5 | Careful Movers | 9.31 | 8.63 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
(800) 787-5428Cost to Move from San Francisco to Boston
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 3,148 miles from San Francisco, CA to Boston, MA will cost on average $4,458 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom San Francisco to Boston move is roughly $10,788. 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 | $2,987 | 300 ft³ | 9.96 |
| 1 Bedroom | $4,458 | 450 ft³ | 9.91 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $7,393 | 750 ft³ | 9.86 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $10,788 | 1100 ft³ | 9.81 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $15,612 | 1600 ft³ | 9.76 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $17,473 | 1800 ft³ | 9.71 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Boston to San Francisco guide.
Compare the 5 Best San Francisco 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) |
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) |
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. Boston Neighborhood Comparison
Exploring a new city can be exciting yet daunting, especially when leaving behind familiar neighborhoods. To ease this transition, we've designed a comparison that frames San Francisco, CA & Boston, MA neighborhoods for a seamless move. Discover the Boston equivalents to your favorite San Francisco areas and start feeling at home right away.
| San Francisco | Boston | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Marina District | Back Bay | Upscale living, vibrant nightlife |
| The Mission | Jamaica Plain | Diverse community, arts scene |
| Haight-Ashbury | Allston-Brighton | Student-friendly vibe, eclectic |
| SOMA (South of Market) | Seaport District | Innovative tech hub, modern lofts |
| Nob Hill | Beacon Hill | Historic architecture, charming streets |
| Pacific Heights | Brookline | Affluent area, beautiful homes |
| North Beach | North End | Rich culture, excellent eateries |
| Castro | South End | Vibrant LGBTQ+ scene, trendy cafes |
| Russian Hill | Charlestown | Historic charm, naval heritage |
| Outer Sunset | Dorchester | Diverse community, family-friendly |
When moving from San Francisco to Boston, you'll find neighborhoods that echo the familiar. For instance, if you're enamored with the Marina District's splendid mix of posh restaurants and scenic views, Back Bay's picturesque streets and lively social scene will captivate you similarly. Beacon Hill's cobblestone streets and historic federal-style buildings bring to mind Nob Hill’s elegance, while the thriving tech scene in SOMA finds its counterpart in the Seaport District's innovative environment and sleek waterfront developments. Fans of The Mission's vibrant art scene and diversity will find Jamaica Plain's eclectic mix of galleries, cafes, and multicultural ambiance a perfect match. As you transition from coast to coast, these comparisons aim to not only help you find a new neighborhood that feels like home but also to encourage exploration and appreciation for the unique qualities that each Boston neighborhood offers.
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from San Francisco to Boston
Moving across the country can be a massive change with its own set of challenges and rewards. Our comparison aims to provide an honest reflection of the San Francisco, CA to Boston, MA relocation , weighing both the upsides and downsides. Whether it's the weather, culture, or cost of living, we've lined up the pros and cons to help you understand what this move entails.
San Francisco, CA- High living costs
- Foggy weather
- Tech-centric culture
- Seismic activity
- Competitive job market
Boston, MA- Richer history
- Seasonal variety
- Diverse academia
- Historic architecture
- Thriving arts scene
Boston, MA- Harsh winters
- Smaller tech scene
- Colder culture
- Fewer Pride events
- Less iconic scenery
San Francisco, CA- Mild climate
- Innovative spirit
- Liberal values
- Strong LGBTQ+ community
- Iconic landmarks
Moving from the foggy hills and booming tech landscape of San Francisco to Boston's snow-draped streets and rich historical tapestry represents a significant lifestyle shift. While you might miss the temperate climate and San Francisco's iconic Golden Gate Bridge, Boston offers a unique blend of seasons, from the vibrant fall foliage in the Public Garden to snowy winter days in Boston Common. You'll find a thriving arts scene, with venues like the Boston Symphony Orchestra and the Museum of Fine Arts, serving as cultural beacons. The academic environment is unmatched, with institutions like MIT and Harvard driving a diverse, intellectual vibe that permeates the city's many cafes and bookshops — a stark contrast to San Francisco's tech-centric culture.
San Francisco vs. Boston Food Guide
Food is an integral part of experiencing local culture and understanding what life is like in a new area. To help you get better acquainted with your potential new home, we’re going to conduct a comparison of the local cuisine between San Francisco & Boston. This overview will give you a taste of what culinary delights await in both cities.
| San Francisco | Boston | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Sourdough Bread | Clam Chowder |
| Most popular meat dish | Mission Burrito | Lobster Roll |
| Most popular street food item | Food Trucks | Cannoli |
| Most popular vegan food | Avocado Toast | Jackfruit Pulled "Pork" |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
San Francisco's culinary scene is renowned for its innovation and sustainability, with an abundance of vegan options, like the city's popular Avocado Toast, and healthy dining choices highlighting local ingredients. The city is a paradise for food lovers, featuring iconic restaurants such as Tartine Bakery, known for its sourdough bread, and Foreign Cinema, offering a unique dining experience. Boston, on the other hand, offers a rich history reflected in its traditional dishes like Clam Chowder and Lobster Rolls. The North End neighborhood, especially, is a haven for Italian cuisine, with places like Mike's Pastry providing a taste of Boston's sweet side. Both cities cater to a range of dietary preferences and are known for their vibrant food truck scenes, although San Francisco has a slightly higher emphasis on fitness and health consciousness.
San Francisco vs. Boston Restaurant Comparison
Deciding where to dine is a crucial part of making any new city feel like home. This comparison aims to ease the transition for those moving from San Francisco to Boston by aligning top restaurants from each city. It will help pinpoint new favorite spots that offer a familiar taste or atmosphere, ensuring the culinary experience continues seamlessly in your new local.
| San Francisco | Boston | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| State Bird Provisions | Oleana | Creative Mediterranean cuisine in an intimate setting |
| Tartine Bakery | Flour Bakery & Cafe | Renowned for pastries and sandwiches |
| Swan Oyster Depot | Neptune Oyster | Exceptional seafood and oyster selection |
| Nopa | Toro | Notable for its tapas and vibrant dining scene |
| The Slanted Door | Myers + Chang | Innovative Asian cuisine with a modern twist |
| Gary Danko | Menton | Fine dining with exquisite French/Italian dishes |
| Zuni Café | Eastern Standard | Classic American fare in a lively atmosphere |
| Benu | O Ya | Luxurious Japanese dining experience |
| Mission Chinese Food | Shojo | Modern Asian dishes with unique twists |
| La Taqueria | El Pelon Taqueria | Authentic flavors and popular for tacos |
For those seeking a taste of San Francisco's iconic culinary scene in Boston, there are numerous options. At Oleana, you'll find an atmosphere and Mediterranean flavors reminiscent of State Bird Provisions, offering a unique dining experience. Lovers of pastries and freshly baked goods who frequented Tartine Bakery will feel right at home at Flour Bakery & Cafe, where the commitment to quality ingredients shines through in every bite. Meanwhile, seafood enthusiasts missing Swan Oyster Depot can dive into the exquisite offerings at Neptune Oyster, where the focus on freshness and quality mirrors the beloved San Francisco spot. These transitions illustrate that while moving cities can be a substantial change, finding culinary comfort in Boston's diverse restaurant scene can make the Bay State feel like home.
Ready to start your move?
San Francisco vs. Boston Real Estate & Living Facts
Real estate is a pivotal factor in planning a move, making it essential to understand how San Francisco and Boston align and differ on this front. This comparison lays the groundwork for your decision, focusing on housing costs, styles, and lifestyle elements.
| Comparison | San Francisco | Boston |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Victorian and Modern | Colonial and Brick Row Houses |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Views, Tech-Ready | Historic Details, Access to Public Transit |
While San Francisco's housing market is notoriously expensive, with median home prices reaching 1.3 million USD, Boston presents a slightly more affordable option at 760,000 USD for the median home price. This difference extends to the rental market as well, with San Francisco's median monthly rent at approximately 3,600 USD compared to Boston's 3,000 USD. Architecture styles are distinctly characteristic of each city's history and culture—San Francisco's iconic Victorian houses contrast with Boston's colonial and brick row houses. Both cities offer a high urban lifestyle rating, yet San Francisco edges out slightly in terms of walkability and bikeability, indicating a possibly more convenient day-to-day life for residents without a car. Popular real estate listing items like "views" and "tech-ready" homes in San Francisco reflect its modern, tech-centric identity, contrasting with Boston's emphasis on "historic details" and "access to public transit," showcasing each city's unique appeal.
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.
San Francisco vs. Boston Weather Considerations
When planning a move from San Francisco, CA to Boston, MA, it's crucial to understand how the weather compares and contrasts between these two cities. Knowing this can greatly affect your lifestyle and daily activities. This comparison will help you grasp the weather changes that come with relocating from San Francisco to Boston.
San Francisco, CA
Boston, MA
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
San Francisco, CA
Boston, MA
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
San Francisco, CA
Boston, MA
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
San Francisco, CA
Boston, MA
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | San Francisco | Boston |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Good | Moderate |
| Natural Disasters | Earthquakes, Fires | Snowstorms, Hurricanes |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
San Francisco and Boston have starkly different climates, a key consideration for anyone moving between these two cities. San Francisco's mild winters and cool summers are a stark contrast to Boston's warm summers and cold, snowy winters. Notably, Boston experiences a significant amount of snowfall annually—something San Francisco residents are unaccustomed to. Additionally, the higher number of sunny days in San Francisco might be something you'll miss, as Boston sees fewer sunshine days. Understanding these differences can help you prepare for seasonal activities and wardrobe changes once you move.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from San Francisco to Boston
When considering a move from one city to another, it's crucial to understand how your finances might be impacted by the change. This comparison offers a clear view of what to expect in terms of money and finance when moving from San Francisco to Boston . It's designed to help you plan effectively for your relocation.
| Comparison | San Francisco | Boston |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $121,826 | $79,283 |
| Cost of Living Index | 164 | 132.5 |
| State Income Tax | 13.3 | 5.0 |
| Avg. Property Tax | 0.6 | 1.2 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 8.5 | 6.25 |
| Top 3 Industries | Technology, Finance, Tourism | Education, Health Services, Finance |
| Affluence | Very High | High |
| Poverty | Moderate | Moderate to Low |
| Homelessness | Significant | Moderate |
From this comparison, it becomes clear that while San Francisco boasts a higher average household income, it also comes with a dramatically higher cost of living compared to Boston. This includes essentials such as housing, which is reflected in the city's cost of living index and average property tax rates. Both cities have strong economies supported by diverse industries, but San Francisco leans heavily on technology, whereas Boston's economy is bolstered by education and health services. Understanding these finance and economy markers can help you anticipate changes and adapt your budget and lifestyle accordingly when moving from San Francisco to Boston.
San Francisco vs. Boston Political & Religious Comparison
Welcome to an insightful comparison designed to illuminate the distinct political and religious landscapes of two major U.S. cities. This comparison between San Francisco & Boston offers a quick glance at the makeup of the cities you are transitioning between, focusing on the population's political and religious composition.
| San Francisco | Boston | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Heavily Democratic | Mostly Democratic |
| Local Politics | Progressive policies | Strong labor and educational focus |
| Religion | Diverse, with no single dominant affiliation | Catholic majority, but religious diversity present |
When transitioning from San Francisco to Boston, you'll find both cities share a Democratic political leaning, though San Francisco is often noted for its particularly progressive policies. In Boston, the political landscape is shaped significantly by its strong labor history and renowned educational institutions. Religion in San Francisco presents a tapestry of beliefs with no single affiliation taking precedence, reflecting the city's wide-ranging cultural diversity. Conversely, Boston has a substantial Catholic presence, attributed to its historical and demographic patterns, yet it still maintains religious diversity akin to San Francisco. Understanding these nuances helps ease the cultural adjustment, allowing for a smoother relocation process.
San Francisco vs. Boston Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Moving from San Francisco, CA to Boston, MA involves adjusting to new ways of commuting. In this comparison of the traffic and transportation options between San Francisco & Boston, you'll better understand what to expect from your daily journey in either city.
| Comparison | San Francisco | Boston |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 34 | 30 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without a car? | Yes | Yes |
Understanding the nuances of commuting in San Francisco and Boston can significantly influence your daily life. In San Francisco, the public transit system, including MUNI and BART, is highly rated, allowing most residents to navigate the city without a car. Bostonians rely heavily on their own dense network, primarily the MBTA, colloquially known as "The T," which makes car-free living manageable. Although Boston's average commute time is slightly less, both cities face considerable traffic congestion. When moving from San Francisco to Boston, you’ll find that, despite these similarities, each city offers a unique commuting experience shaped by local infrastructure and geography.
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