Best San Francisco to St. Paul Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from San Francisco to St. Paul and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 1,965 mile move from California to Minnesota go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 26 San Francisco to St. Paul 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 OCD Moving Services LLC), how much the move costs (approximately $2,500 - $8,500 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in San Francisco compared to St. Paul. 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 St. Paul Moving Companies
| Rank | Company Name | Rating  | Affordability Index | License | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | OCD Moving Services LLC | 9.66 | 9.47 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 2 | Metro Movers | 9.49 | 9.73 | Authorized For Property | Contact |
| 3 | Bay - L.A. Express Moving | 9.32 | 9.49 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 4 | Careful Movers | 9.31 | 8.63 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 5 | General Expert Moving Service LLC | 9.26 | 8.89 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
(800) 787-5428Cost to Move from San Francisco to St. Paul
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 1,965 miles from San Francisco, CA to St. Paul, MN will cost on average $3,452 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom San Francisco to St. Paul move is roughly $8,329. 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 | $2,316 | 300 ft³ | 7.72 |
| 1 Bedroom | $3,452 | 450 ft³ | 7.67 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $5,716 | 750 ft³ | 7.62 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $8,329 | 1100 ft³ | 7.57 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $12,035 | 1600 ft³ | 7.52 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $13,449 | 1800 ft³ | 7.47 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from St. Paul to San Francisco guide.
Compare the 5 Best San Francisco to St. Paul 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) |
Metro Movers
434 Blake Rd N
Hopkins, MN, 55343
About Metro Movers
Metro Movers, a licensed and insured transport and logistics company in Minnesota, was founded by two childhood friends with a shared...
Services
- Residential Moving
- Business Moving
- Long Distance Residential Moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3742268 / 1503884 Authorized For Property Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 3 |
| Registered Drivers | 3 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 16,000 (2023) |
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) |
General Expert Moving Service LLC
3804 22nd Ave S
Minneapolis, MN, 55407
About General Expert Moving Service LLC
General Expert Moving Service LLC is a family-owned moving company based in Minnesota. It started with two brothers and a pickup...
Services
- Cheap moving
- Local moving
- Long-distance moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2846187 / 1285395 Authorized For HHG Carrier/Shipper |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 5 |
| Registered Drivers | 24 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 30,000 (2024) |
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. St. Paul Neighborhood Comparison
When moving from a city you know well to one you're less familiar with, it's helpful to find a bit of common ground. This guide aims to make the transition smoother by comparing the local neighborhoods between San Francisco, CA & St. Paul, MN . Through this comparison, you can find a neighborhood in St. Paul that mirrors the community vibe, amenities, and lifestyle you cherished back in San Francisco.
| San Francisco | St. Paul | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Marina District | Highland Park | Family-friendly with vibrant shopping |
| Mission District | Lowertown | Artsy with a rich cultural scene |
| Hayes Valley | Cathedral Hill | Historic with trendy boutiques |
| Nob Hill | Summit Hill | Upscale with stunning architecture |
| Pacific Heights | Crocker Farm | Exclusive, with breathtaking views |
| Russian Hill | Macalester-Groveland | Quaint and walkable |
| SOMA (South of Market) | Downtown St. Paul | Urban with a mix of attractions |
| Haight-Ashbury | Merriam Park | Bohemian with a historic touch |
| North Beach | St. Anthony Park | Intellectual with a cozy feel |
| The Castro | Union Park | Diverse and community-oriented |
The Marina District's scenic vistas and bustling streets find their match in Highland Park, where you can enjoy family outings at cafes like Café Latte or take leisurely strolls along the Mississippi River. Meanwhile, the arts and festival scene that defines the Mission District is mirrored in Lowertown, where venues like the CHS Field host events that bring the community together. Nob Hill's elegant ambiance resonates through Summit Hill, where historical mansions line the streets, offering a glimpse into St. Paul's past. For those drawn to the urban vibes of SOMA, Downtown St. Paul presents a compelling mix of attractions, including the vibrant Mears Park, which hosts music festivals and community events, encapsulating the city's lively spirit.
Things to Do in St. Paul
Explore the Minnesota History Center- Stroll around Como Park Zoo & Conservatory
- Attend a Minnesota Twins game
- Ice skate at Landmark Center
- Enjoy music at First Avenue club
- Rent a bike at Nice Ride Minnesota
- Sample craft beer at Surly Brewing Co.
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from San Francisco to St. Paul
Moving across the country is a significant life change, packed with all sorts of feelings, considering both the challenges you're leaving behind and the new opportunities awaiting. This guide aims to provide an honest reflection on the goods and bads of relocating from San Francisco, CA to St. Paul, MN , helping you weigh your options with clear eyes and realistic expectations.
San Francisco, CA- High cost of living
- Dense population
- Heavy traffic
- Less snow
St. Paul, MN- More affordable
- Less crowded
- Easier commutes
- Four seasons
St. Paul, MN- Fewer tech jobs
- Cold winters
- Quieter nightlife
- Fewer landmarks
San Francisco, CA- Tech hub
- Mild winters
- Vibrant nightlife
- Iconic landmarks
Although San Francisco offers a bustling tech scene and iconic sights like the Golden Gate Bridge, it's complemented by St. Paul's charm with neighborhoods like Lowertown, which boasts an array of parks, vibrant local markets like the St. Paul Farmers Market, and a growing food scene featuring restaurants such as The Buttered Tin. St. Paul, while having a quieter nightlife compared to San Francisco, offers unique spots like the historic Fitzgerald Theater for live performances. Moreover, nature lovers in St. Paul enjoy access to four distinct seasons and outdoor activities in parks such as Como Park and alongside the Mississippi River, offering a different but equally enriching set of lifestyle advantages.
San Francisco vs. St. Paul Food Guide
When moving to a new city, understanding the local food scene is key to immersing yourself in your new environment. In this guide, we'll be doing a comparison of the local cuisine between San Francisco & St. Paul, so you can get a taste of what your culinary life will be like in your new home.
| San Francisco | St. Paul | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Sourdough Bread | Juicy Lucy Burger |
| Most popular meat dish | Mission Burrito | Walleye Fish Fry |
| Most popular street food item | Rice Plates | Tater Tot Hotdish |
| Most popular vegan food | Avocado Toast | Vegan Juicy Lucy |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
In San Francisco, the iconic sourdough bread can be found in many bakeries, but for a true taste, head to Tartine Bakery in the Mission District. The city's diverse culinary scene means you can enjoy everything from a Mission Burrito in the vibrant Mission neighborhood to innovative vegan dishes that cater to health-conscious residents. In contrast, St. Paul boasts its own unique fare such as the Juicy Lucy Burger, which is a must-try at Matt's Bar. The city also has a rich tradition of dishes like the Walleye Fish Fry, reflecting its Upper Midwest roots, while still offering modern vegan adaptations of classic dishes like the Vegan Juicy Lucy. Whether you're dining in the historic neighborhoods of St. Paul or exploring the culinary landscape of San Francisco, you'll discover a vibrant food scene that reflects the rich culture of each city.
San Francisco vs. St. Paul Restaurant Comparison
Finding comfort in a new city can often start with discovering your new favorite places to eat. This comparison of top restaurants from San Francisco, CA to St. Paul, MN is designed to make your transition smoother, ensuring you'll find familiar tastes and new favorites alike. Let this guide aid you in making St. Paul feel like home.
| San Francisco | St. Paul | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Zuni Café | The Lexington | Upscale American dining with a comparable ambiance and menu. |
| Tartine Bakery | Rustica Bakery | Known for high-quality, fresh-baked goods similar to Tartine's offerings. |
| La Taqueria | El Burrito Mercado | Authentic Mexican cuisine that rivals the flavors found at La Taqueria. |
| State Bird Provisions | Saint Dinette | Innovative American dishes in a unique setting, akin to State Bird's experience. |
| The Slanted Door | Sen Yai Sen Lek | Offers a modern approach to traditional Thai food, reminiscent of The Slanted Door's fusion style. |
| Nopa | The Happy Gnome | Craft beers and elevated American fare make it a counterpart to Nopa's vibe. |
| Gary Danko | Meritage | French-inspired cuisine with a dedication to fine dining similar to Gary Danko. |
| Swan Oyster Depot | Sea Salt Eatery | Fresh seafood in a casual atmosphere, echoing Swan Oyster Depot's essence. |
| Benu | Hyacinth | Refined and creative dining with attention to detail, offering a similar experience to Benu. |
| Foreign Cinema | Joan's in the Park | A unique blend of excellent food and atmosphere, providing a cinematic dining experience akin to Foreign Cinema. |
For those who cherished the farm-to-table menu and lively ambiance of State Bird Provisions in San Francisco, you'll find a similar spirit in Saint Dinette nestled in St. Paul. Both restaurants boast innovative offerings that redefine American cuisine, making each visit an exploration of culinary creativity. Meanwhile, fans of the iconic Swan Oyster Depot will appreciate the fresh catch and relaxed vibe at Sea Salt Eatery, where the simple joy of oysters and seafood can be enjoyed under the Minnesota sky. It's not just about finding a place with similar food, but rediscovering the communal bond and flavor nostalgia that makes each meal memorable.
Ready to start your move?
San Francisco vs. St. Paul Real Estate & Living Facts
When considering a move, comparing the real estate environment between your current city and potential new home is crucial. This analysis helps to elucidate the differences in housing costs, styles, and lifestyle between San Francisco and St. Paul, guiding you to make an informed decision about your relocation.
| Comparison | San Francisco | St. Paul |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Victorian and Modern | Victorian and Craftsman |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Views, Proximity to Tech Hubs | Family-friendly, Historic Neighborhoods |
San Francisco is renowned for its costly real estate market, reflecting the city's high cost of living and proximity to major tech hubs. The city's architecture boasts a mix of charming Victorian homes and sleek modern buildings, complemented by a high walkability score that encourages residents to explore their neighborhoods. On the other hand, St. Paul offers more affordable housing options with a focus on family-friendly and historic neighborhoods. The city's love for Victorian and Craftsman homes adds a unique charm, while its slightly lower walkability and bikeability scores reflect a more laid-back urban lifestyle compared to San Francisco. Both cities offer unique living experiences, tailored to different lifestyles and preferences.
Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in St. Paul, MN
1. Lowertown: Known for its vibrant arts scene and dog-friendly attitude, you'll find multiple pet-friendly apartments and the scenic Mears Park, perfect for walks.
2. Highland Park: With its quiet residential streets and proximity to the Highland Park, this neighborhood offers plenty of green spaces for your pets to explore.
3. Summit Hill: This historic neighborhood not only charms with its architectural beauty but also boasts pet-friendly cafes and close access to the massive Como Regional Park, a haven for walking and play.
San Francisco vs. St. Paul Weather Considerations
When considering a move from San Francisco, CA to St. Paul, MN, it’s crucial to understand how the weather compares . The climate you’re accustomed to in San Francisco may be vastly different from what awaits you in St. Paul . This comparison aims to prepare you for the environmental changes, ensuring a smoother transition.
San Francisco, CA
St. Paul, MN
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
San Francisco, CA
St. Paul, MN
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
San Francisco, CA
St. Paul, MN
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
San Francisco, CA
St. Paul, MN
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | San Francisco | St. Paul |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Good | Moderate |
| Natural Disasters | Earthquakes, Wildfires | Blizzards, Tornadoes |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
Moving from San Francisco to St. Paul, you'll experience a significant shift in weather, notably in winter. St. Paul's winters are much harsher, with temperatures often plunging well below freezing. This drastic change means you'll need to prepare for cold-weather living, including proper clothing and possibly adjusting your vehicle for snow. Additionally, while San Francisco offers more sunny days annually, St. Paul provides a classic, vivid four-season experience, with each season offering its unique outdoor activities. Adjusting to the different extent of annual snowfall will be essential, as St. Paul experiences hefty snow, in contrast to the virtually nonexistent snowfall in San Francisco.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from San Francisco to St. Paul
When planning a move, it's critical to grasp how different the cost of living and financial landscape will be between San Francisco and St. Paul. Understanding these differences can help you better prepare for your financial future in a new city.
| Comparison | San Francisco | St. Paul |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $121,826 | $66,098 |
| Cost of Living Index | 164 | 110 |
| State Income Tax | 13.3 | 9.85 |
| Avg. Property Tax | 0.6 | 1.28 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 8.5 | 7.875 |
| Top 3 Industries | Technology, Finance, Tourism | Healthcare, Education, Manufacturing |
| Affluence | High | Moderate |
| Poverty | Moderate | Moderate |
| Homelessness | High | Low |
The disparities in the cost of living and average income between San Francisco and St. Paul are quite striking, highlighting the significant financial shift someone can expect when making the move. With San Francisco's cost of living index sitting at 269 compared to St. Paul's 108, the difference in how far your dollar goes can be eye-opening. Despite the higher income levels in San Francisco, the relative affordability and lower taxes in St. Paul can present new financial opportunities, such as easier property ownership due to lower average property taxes, despite the higher percentage rate. Additionally, transitioning from industries dominated by technology and finance to those focused on healthcare and manufacturing can offer a fresh professional landscape for those relocating.
San Francisco vs. St. Paul Political & Religious Comparison
Relocating from San Francisco, CA to St. Paul, MN entails more than just a change of scenery. This brief comparison provides a quick snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents in both cities to help you understand what to expect in your new home.
| San Francisco | St. Paul | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Liberal/Democratic | Liberal/Democratic |
| Local Politics | Progressive policies | Mix of progressive and moderate policies |
| Religion | Multicultural and diverse | Christian majority, but religiously diverse |
When moving from San Francisco to St. Paul, you'll find that both cities share a liberal and Democratic political makeup, though St. Paul exhibits a mix of progressive and moderate policies locally. This blend might reflect a slightly different political atmosphere than what you're used to in San Francisco, known for its very progressive stance on many issues. Religion in St. Paul, while predominantly Christian, remains diverse and reflects a broad range of beliefs and practices similar to San Francisco’s multicultural religious landscape. The richness in cultural and religious diversity in St. Paul offers a welcoming environment for newcomers. Understanding these dynamics can help ease your transition and integrate into your new community.
San Francisco vs. St. Paul Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Moving from San Francisco, CA to St. Paul, MN requires understanding the distinct differences in daily commutes and traffic. This comparison of traffic and transportation options between San Francisco & St. Paul will help you gauge what to expect in terms of transportation ease and accessibility in these cities.
| Comparison | San Francisco | St. Paul |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 34 | 24 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | Yes | Challenging |
In San Francisco, you can largely depend on public transit like the SFMTA, BART, and others, making owning a car less necessary. This is reflected in its excellent public transit score. However, if you're moving to St. Paul, you may find a car more necessary to comfortably navigate the city, despite the existence of services such as the Metro Transit. Traffic congestion is also significantly lower in St. Paul, making driving less of a headache compared to the often-gridlocked San Francisco. The average commute time is shorter in St. Paul, giving you more time to enjoy outside of work. This contrast dramatically showcases the different lifestyles one can expect in terms of transportation and commuting in these two cities.
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