Best San Jose to Salem Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from San Jose to Salem and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 620 mile move from California to Oregon go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 25 San Jose to Salem 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 D&L Movers), how much the move costs (approximately $1,500 - $5,500 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in San Jose compared to Salem. 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 Jose to Salem Moving Companies
| Rank | Company Name | Rating  | Affordability Index | License | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | D&L Movers | 9.34 | 9.36 | Active | Contact |
| 2 | Careful Movers | 9.31 | 8.63 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 3 | Northwest Grace Moving | 9.29 | 9.28 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 4 | All Service Moving | 9.27 | 8.91 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
| 5 | Joshua's Moving Packing & Storage LLC | 9.24 | 9.14 | Active | Contact |
(800) 787-5428Cost to Move from San Jose to Salem
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 620 miles from San Jose, CA to Salem, OR will cost on average $2,308 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom San Jose to Salem move is roughly $5,533. 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 | $1,554 | 300 ft³ | 5.18 |
| 1 Bedroom | $2,308 | 450 ft³ | 5.13 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $3,810 | 750 ft³ | 5.08 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $5,533 | 1100 ft³ | 5.03 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $7,968 | 1600 ft³ | 4.98 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $8,874 | 1800 ft³ | 4.93 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Salem to San Jose guide.
Compare the 5 Best San Jose to Salem Movers
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
D&L Movers
1563 Bahama Way
Campbell, CA, 95008
About D&L Movers
Founded by Drew Sanchez and Leo Cervantes, D&L Movers is a local moving company that offers full-service relocations for homes and...
Services
- Cheap moving
- Local moving
- Long-distance moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2706648 / - Active Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 3 |
| Registered Drivers | 5 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 20,000 (2017) |
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) |
Northwest Grace Moving
19764 Cypresswood St
Oregon City, OR, 97045
About Northwest Grace Moving
Founded in 2008, Northwest Grace Moving is a fully licensed, bonded, and insured Oregon moving company that serves the entire Portland...
Services
- Local Moving
- Long Distance Moving
- Senior Moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 1999959 / 755213 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 3 |
| Registered Drivers | 3 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 50,000 (2023) |
All Service Moving
This listing has been claimed by All Service Moving66 SE Morrison St
Portland, OR, 97214
About All Service Moving
Based in Portland, OR, Willamette Valley Moving has provided moving services in Oregon, Washington, and Idaho for over 18 years. By...
Services
- Residential Moving
- Commercial Moving
- Long Distance Moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 1863079 / 722865 Authorized For Property, HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 80 |
| Registered Drivers | 113 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 1,186,786 (2022) |
Joshua's Moving Packing & Storage LLC
San Carlos, CA, 94070
About Joshua's Moving Packing & Storage LLC
Whether you're moving to the next street or city, Joshua's Moving, Packing & Storage offers worry-free relocation services within California. Located...
Services
- Local moving
- Long-distance moving
- Cross-country moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3184868 / - Active Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 5 |
| Registered Drivers | 5 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 250,000 (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 Jose vs. Salem Neighborhood Comparison
If you're planning a move and looking for familiarity in a new city, comparing neighborhoods can be invaluable. By examining the character and features of San Jose, CA & Salem, OR's local neighborhoods, we aim to help you find a similar community vibe in your new home. Let's explore how popular neighborhoods between these cities align.
| San Jose | Salem | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Willow Glen | West Salem | Family-friendly with a tight-knit community feel |
| Almaden Valley | South Salem | Similar suburban feel, parks, and quality schools |
| Los Gatos | Fairmount Hill | Upscale, with scenic views and historic homes |
| Silver Creek | Illawong | Exclusive, with sprawling estates and private amenities |
| Evergreen | Sunnyslope | Quiet neighborhoods with access to outdoor activities |
| Rose Garden | Grant | Known for its gardens and well-preserved historic houses |
| Japantown | Englewood | Diverse with a rich cultural presence and community events |
| Downtown San Jose | Downtown Salem | Vibrant city life with tons of dining, shopping, and arts |
| Willow Glen | West Salem | Family-oriented with similar neighborhood charm |
| Berryessa | Morningside | Quiet, family neighborhoods with accessible amenities |
In exploring these neighborhood pairings, you'll discover that each offers its own unique charm and amenities. For instance, if you adore the community vibe and historic feel of Willow Glen, West Salem's family-friendly atmosphere and strong sense of community will make you feel right at home. Food enthusiasts who enjoy Japantown's diverse cuisine will find a similar culinary scene in Englewood, with local favorites like Englewood Diner offering a taste of the neighborhood's rich cultural tapestry. For those seeking an active outdoor lifestyle akin to what Almaden Valley offers, South Salem's numerous parks, such as Minto-Brown Island Park, provide ample opportunity for recreation and relaxation amidst nature.
Things to Do in Salem
Stroll through the colorful Bush's Pasture Park- Discover gothic horrors at Witch's Castle
- Visit the Willamette National Forest
- Book a ticket to an event at El Sinai Center
- Explore craft brews at Gilgamesh Brewing
- Enjoy a show at Elsinore Theatre
- Join a Salem Saturday Market
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from San Jose to Salem
Moving from one city to another offers a unique chance to weigh the benefits against the drawbacks in an honest light. This guide provides a comparison to help you understand the differences between living in San Jose, CA, and Salem, OR . Whether you're seeking a quieter life or a lower cost of living, these charts aim to reflect the true nature of this relocation .
San Jose, CA- High Cost of Living
- Heavy Traffic
- Less Green Space
Salem, OR- More Affordable
- Less Traffic
- More Parks
Salem, OR- Fewer Job Ops
- More Rain
- Fewer Restaurants
San Jose, CA- Technology Hub
- Sunny Weather
- Diverse Cuisine
Despite the perks of San Jose's bustling tech scene and diverse culinary options, the charm of Salem with its abundant green spaces and less congested lifestyle is undeniable. In Salem, places like Bush's Pasture Park and Minto-Brown Island Park offer large, open areas perfect for leisure and outdoor activities. Although Salem might not boast the same variety of dining options as San Jose, establishments like Gamberetti’s for Italian cuisine and Word of Mouth Bistro for a cozy breakfast or brunch experience nicely capture the local flavor. Ultimately, while the transition from San Jose to Salem might present some challenges, it also opens the door to a more relaxed and cost-effective lifestyle.
San Jose vs. Salem Food Guide
Food is an essential aspect of local culture, offering a taste of what life is like in a new area. In this guide, we highlight the differences in the culinary scenes of two vibrant cities. This is a comparison of the local cuisine between San Jose & Salem, aimed at giving you a better understanding of what to expect from the food scene in your new home.
| San Jose | Salem | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Pho | Marionberry pie |
| Most popular meat dish | Korean BBQ | Smoked salmon |
| Most popular street food item | Tacos | Food truck burgers |
| Most popular vegan food | Ramen | Tempeh bowls |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
San Jose, with its vibrant Vietnamese community, offers an unparalleled Pho experience, particularly in neighborhoods like Little Saigon. Similarly, Salem celebrates Oregon's local produce with dishes like Marionberry pie, a must-try for anyone moving to the area. In San Jose, dining landmarks like La Foret Restaurant provide an exquisite menu in an awe-inspiring setting, while in Salem, Word of Mouth Bistro is renowned for its breakfasts, encapsulating the local flavor. Street food enthusiasts moving from San Jose to Salem will find comfort in the diverse and burgeoning food truck scenes of both cities, albeit with a shift towards Salem's unique preference for locally sourced, hearty meals such as food truck burgers and tempeh bowls.
San Jose vs. Salem Restaurant Comparison
When settling into a new city, finding your go-to spots for food plays a big part in making it feel like home. This restaurant comparison from San Jose to Salem will guide you in discovering your next favorite dining destinations by leveraging what you already love.
| San Jose | Salem | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Adega | Rudy's Steakhouse | Fine dining with an emphasis on exquisite ingredients |
| La Foret Restaurant | DaVinci Ristorante | Upscale dining experience with a focus on Italian cuisine |
| Original Joe's San Jose | Bo & Vine Burger Bar | Casual dining with iconic burgers and a modern twist |
| Manresa | Wild Pear | American fine dining with a farm-to-table approach |
| Falafel Drive-In | Gyro Stop | Casual spot known for Mediterranean flavors and friendly vibe |
| Back A Yard | Busick Court Restaurant | Comfort food in a cozy setting, reflecting a community feel |
| The Table | Tabla Mediterranean Bistro | Casual chic dining with a focus on seasonal ingredients |
| Di Matteo's Pizza | Christos Pizzeria | Artisanal pizzas with a nod to traditional techniques |
| Orchestria Palm Court | Archive Coffee & Bar | Quirky and unique atmosphere with quality dishes |
| Nemea Greek Taverna | Alcyone Café | Cozy spot for Greek cuisine and friendly ambiance |
Moving to a new place doesn't mean you have to give up on the dining experiences you cherish. For example, traditional Italian enthusiasts moving from San Jose will be delighted by DaVinci Ristorante in Salem, where the ambiance and culinary offerings remind one of La Foret Restaurant. Similarly, those who frequented Falafel Drive-In for a quick, flavorful bite will find comfort in Gyro Stop's Mediterranean offerings. Each Salem equivalent, from Christos Pizzeria to Wild Pear, captures the essence of their San Jose counterparts, promising a blend of nostalgia and new culinary adventures.
Ready to start your move?
San Jose vs. Salem Real Estate & Living Facts
Real estate is a crucial element in the decision-making process when relocating. Knowing how the housing market and lifestyle opportunities in San Jose, CA, and Salem, OR stack up can help you make an informed choice. This comparison aims to highlight the key differences and similarities between the two cities in terms of cost, architectural styles, and living standards.
| Comparison | San Jose | Salem |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Mediterranean & Modern | Craftsman & Ranch |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Solar panels, Smart Homes | Backyards, Proximity to Nature |
When comparing San Jose and Salem, it's evident that the cost of living, particularly housing, significantly diverges. In San Jose, the tech boom has led to a surge in Median Home Prices, making it one of the most expensive markets in the United States. Contrastingly, Salem offers a more affordable living situation, reflecting in both the median home price and rent. The architectural styles also reflect the cultural differences between the vibrant, tech-driven atmosphere of San Jose, showcasing Mediterranean and Modern designs, and the quieter, nature-oriented lifestyle of Salem, with its Craftsman and Ranch-style homes. Moreover, those moving to San Jose might appreciate the higher urban lifestyle score, indicative of a bustling city life, while Salem promises a closer connection to nature and a calmer environment.
Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Salem, OR
1. West Salem: This area is highly pet-friendly due to its numerous walking trails such as Wallace Marine Park and pet services like Taylor Street OB/GYN Veterinary Clinic.
2. South Salem: Your pet will enjoy South Salem's selection of pet-friendly restaurants and services, including All-In-One Pet Grooming and Garry's Pub which has a pet-friendly patio.
3. Morningside: Known for its large number of dog-friendly parks such as Morningside City Park, this neighborhood also hosts a favorite pet supply store, Petco.
San Jose vs. Salem Weather Considerations
When relocating, understanding how the weather will vary in your new home compared to your current one is crucial. This comparison between San Jose, CA, and Salem, OR, highlights the essential weather differences to anticipate. Knowing these variances will help you plan and adapt more efficiently to your new environment.
San Jose, CA
Salem, OR
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
San Jose, CA
Salem, OR
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
San Jose, CA
Salem, OR
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
San Jose, CA
Salem, OR
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | San Jose | Salem |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Good to Moderate | Good to Moderate |
| Natural Disasters | Earthquakes, Wildfires | Earthquakes, Floods |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
Moving from San Jose to Salem, you'll notice a significant change in the weather, particularly in terms of sunshine and rainfall. Salem experiences nearly 100 fewer days of sunshine annually and far more rainfall. This increased precipitation contributes to a higher humidity level, adding a dampness to the air not as common in San Jose. The winter temperatures in Salem are also cooler, making for a more pronounced change in seasons than in San Jose. If outdoor activities or gardening are significant hobbies, adapting to these differences will be essential for enjoying Oregon's beautiful, albeit wetter, climate.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from San Jose to Salem
When considering a move from San Jose, CA to Salem, OR, it's crucial to understand the financial implications. Comparing the cost of living, income, taxes, and economic climate between San Jose and Salem can help you prepare for the transition and set realistic expectations for your new life.
| Comparison | San Jose | Salem |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $126,377 | $63,927 |
| Cost of Living Index | 156.1 | 110.55 |
| State Income Tax | 9.3 | 9.9 |
| Avg. Property Tax | 0.79 | 1.18 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 9.25 | 0 |
| Top 3 Industries | Technology, Healthcare, Retail | Government, Agriculture, Healthcare |
| Affluence | High | Moderate |
| Poverty | Low | Moderate |
| Homelessness | Elevated | Moderate |
Moving from San Jose to Salem, you'll encounter significant financial shifts. One notable change is the average household income, which is considerably higher in San Jose. However, this high income is counterbalanced by a much higher cost of living, including housing and daily expenses. In contrast, Salem offers a more economical lifestyle, with lower living costs across the board, although state income tax rates are surprisingly comparable. Importantly, while sales tax in San Jose elevates the cost of purchases, Oregon's lack of sales tax in cities like Salem can provide some financial relief. The economic environments also differ, with San Jose's technology-driven market contrasting Salem's government and agriculture-based economy.
San Jose vs. Salem Political & Religious Comparison
Moving can be a big step, and understanding the community you're joining is crucial. This quick comparison aims to provide a snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents between San Jose & Salem , offering insights into what you might expect in your new hometown.
| San Jose | Salem | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Primarily Democratic | Largely Democratic |
| Local Politics | Progressive policies | Mix of progressive and conservative |
| Religion | Diverse, with large Asian spiritual communities | Christian dominated, with growing non-Christian communities |
San Jose and Salem both share a Democratic majority, indicating a potentially smoother transition for you if your views align. However, the local politics in Salem present a mix, suggesting that you might encounter a broader spectrum of viewpoints. In terms of religion, San Jose's diversity reflects its large Asian population and various religious practices, whereas Salem is traditionally Christian but is becoming more religiously diverse over time. This snapshot gives you a glimpse into the cultural fabric of both cities, helping you prepare for your new journey.
San Jose vs. Salem Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Moving from San Jose, CA, to Salem, OR, requires an understanding of how daily commutes and traffic will change. This comparison of the traffic and transportation options between San Jose & Salem is designed to prepare you for this transition.
| Comparison | San Jose | Salem |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 32 | 23 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without a car? | Possibly, with effort | Challenging |
In San Jose, the average commute time is significantly longer than in Salem, reflecting the larger population and more congested traffic conditions. While public transit options are more readily available in San Jose, their effectiveness can be limited by the spread-out nature of the Bay Area. On the other hand, Salem offers a more relaxed driving experience with less traffic congestion, but living without a car can be more challenging due to its limited public transit system. Adapting to these changes will be crucial for a smoother transition in your daily life.
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