Best San Francisco to Chattanooga Movers + Moving Guide

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If you're moving from San Francisco to Chattanooga and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 2,448 mile move from California to Tennessee go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 19 San Francisco to Chattanooga 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 $2,500 - $9,500 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in San Francisco compared to Chattanooga. 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.

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Best San Francisco to Chattanooga Moving Companies

RankCompany NameRating QuestionAffordability IndexLicenseContact
1OCD Moving Services LLC9.669.47Authorized For HHGContact
2Boundless Moving & Storage9.339.36Authorized For Property, HHGContact
3Bay - L.A. Express Moving9.329.49Authorized For HHGContact
4Careful Movers9.318.63Authorized For HHGContact
5Smooth Moving & Storage8.938.63Authorized For HHGContact
Phone (800) 787-5428

Cost to Move from San Francisco to Chattanooga

Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 2,448 miles from San Francisco, CA to Chattanooga, TN will cost on average $3,863 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom San Francisco to Chattanooga move is roughly $9,333. 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 SizeMoving CostVolume of Packed Items (ft³)$/ft³
Studio$2,590300 ft³8.63
1 Bedroom$3,863450 ft³8.58
2 Bedrooms$6,401750 ft³8.53
3 Bedrooms$9,3331100 ft³8.48
4 Bedrooms$13,4951600 ft³8.43
5+ Bedrooms$15,0921800 ft³8.38
*Please note: These California to Tennessee moving prices are rough approximations based upon nationwide data as well as local and statewide data from California & Tennessee. The volume listed here represents the estimated cubic footage of your household items when packed and loaded into a moving truck. To determine the exact costs associated with your move, get a quote from a licensed CA to TN mover.
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Chattanooga to San Francisco guide.

Compare the 5 Best San Francisco to Chattanooga Movers

These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)

OCD Moving Services LLC Logo

OCD Moving Services LLC

Exceptional9.66/10
based on 3,273+ data points

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

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/9/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2597230 / 911812

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans6
Registered Drivers6
Total Annual Miles Moved153,000 (2022)
View Full Review
1
Boundless Moving & Storage Logo

Boundless Moving & Storage

Exceptional9.33/10
based on 1,378+ data points

5595 N. Lee Hwy

Cleveland, TN, 37312

About Boundless Moving & Storage

Boundless Moving is a local, family-owned moving company near Chattanooga, TN. Established in 2015, it is located in Cleveland and offers...

Services

  • Local Moving Services
  • Long Distance Moving Services
  • Commercial Moving Services

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/10/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2798532 / 934519

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans8
Registered Drivers8
Total Annual Miles Moved358,520 (2022)
View Full Review
2
B

Bay - L.A. Express Moving

Exceptional9.32/10
based on 634+ data points

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

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 8/10/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

1396171 / 530464

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans2
Registered Drivers3
Total Annual Miles Moved60,000 (2022)
View Full Review
3
Careful Movers Logo

Careful Movers

Exceptional9.31/10
based on 4,655+ data points

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

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/9/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

1464935 / 553377

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans14
Registered Drivers14
Total Annual Miles Moved90,000 (2022)
View Full Review
4
Smooth Moving & Storage Logo

Smooth Moving & Storage

Superb8.93/10
based on 346+ data points

3620 Trousdale Dr

Nashville, TN, 37204

About Smooth Moving & Storage

Smooth Moving & Storage is a full-service moving and storage company based in Nashville, Tennessee, offering professional, reliable, and stress-free moving...

Services

  • Local moving
  • Long-distance moving
  • Residential moving

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/10/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2472874 / 1244900

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans2
Registered Drivers2
Total Annual Miles Moved1 (2023)
View Full Review
5
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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. Chattanooga Neighborhood Comparison

Moving to a new city can be daunting. To ease this transition, we've crafted a guide that highlights the comparison of local neighborhoods between San Francisco, CA & Chattanooga, TN . If you're familiar with San Francisco's vibe, we'll help you find a Chattanooga neighborhood that reflects a similar atmosphere, making your move feel a bit more like home.

San FranciscoChattanoogaHow They're Similar
Marina DistrictNorth ShoreVibrant shopping & dining scenes
SoMa (South of Market)SouthsideTrendy eateries, art scene
Haight-AshburySt. ElmoRich in history, community-focused
The MissionHighland ParkDiverse community, artsy vibe
Nob HillRiverviewUpscale homes, scenic views
Pacific HeightsLookout MountainExclusive, breathtaking landscapes
North BeachBluff View Art DistrictRich in culture and arts
Outer SunsetSignal MountainQuiet, surrounded by nature
Financial DistrictDowntown ChattanoogaBusiness hub, modern amenities
CastroMain StreetVibrant nightlife, inclusive community

For those who adore San Francisco's Marina District with its bustling cafes and waterfront views, Chattanooga's North Shore offers a similar appeal with its eclectic mix of local shops and eateries alongside Coolidge Park and Renaissance Park. Southside, akin to SoMa, buzzes with trendy restaurants, craft breweries, and a vibrant art scene, highlighted by venues like the Sculpture Fields at Montague Park. For a historical touch reminiscent of Haight-Ashbury, St. Elmo presents a cozy, community-oriented lifestyle at the foot of Lookout Mountain, inviting exploration and serenity. Ultimately, each Chattanooga neighborhood echoes a piece of San Francisco charm, ensuring you'll find a new home that feels both fresh and familiar.

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Things to Do in Chattanooga

  • Explore Tennessee Aquarium
  • Hike Lookout Mountain
  • Visit Ruby Falls
  • Ride the Incline Railway
  • Stroll through Bluff View Art District
  • Shop at Chattanooga Market

Ready to start your move?

Pros and Cons of Moving from San Francisco to Chattanooga

Making the move from San Francisco, CA to Chattanooga, TN involves a significant transition, bringing both challenges and opportunities. This comparison aims to provide an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of this relocation, highlighting the key factors that could influence your decision. Through the purpose of the charts is to elucidate the differences, offering insights into what you can gain and what you might miss in the process.

CONs
PROs
San Francisco, CA iconSan Francisco, CA
  • High cost of living
  • Dense traffic
  • Frequent fog
  • Competitive job market
Chattanooga, TN iconChattanooga, TN
  • Lower cost of living
  • Lesser traffic
  • More sunshine
  • Growing job market
Chattanooga, TN iconChattanooga, TN
  • Smaller tech community
  • Lesser culinary diversity
  • Fewer landmarks
  • Relies more on cars
San Francisco, CA iconSan Francisco, CA
  • Vibrant tech scene
  • Diverse cuisine
  • Iconic landmarks
  • Extensive public transit

Transitioning from San Francisco's bustling, tech-savvy environment to Chattanooga's more relaxed and affordable setting offers a fresh perspective on lifestyle and opportunities. While you may miss the Golden Gate Bridge and the eclectic dining options from neighborhoods like the Mission District, Chattanooga presents its charm through attractions such as Lookout Mountain and the Tennessee Aquarium. Moreover, the scenic Tennessee Riverwalk or the historic Walnut Street Bridge provide excellent leisure and outdoor activities. The city's lower cost of living doesn't come at the expense of quality, with vibrant areas like NorthShore and Southside buzzing with cafes, boutiques, and art galleries. Although Chattanooga's tech scene is smaller, it's growing rapidly, showcased by innovation hubs like the Edney Innovation Center, making it an exciting time to be part of the community.

San Francisco vs. Chattanooga Food Guide

This comparison of the local cuisine between San Francisco & Chattanooga aims to highlight how food plays a vital role in understanding the cultural texture of a new city. By delving into the culinary scenes of both, you'll be well-equipped to savor the flavors of your new home.

San FranciscoChattanooga
Most iconic local food itemSourdough BreadBarbecue Ribs
Most popular meat dishCioppinoSmoked Brisket
Most popular street food itemMission BurritoChattanooga Dogs
Most popular vegan foodAvocado ToastBBQ Jackfruit Sandwich
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
  • Chez Panisse
  • Tartine Bakery
  • Gary Danko
  • Alleia
  • Hennen's
  • Aretha Frankenstein's
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
Abundance of Food Trucks🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
Foodie Scene🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

When you move from San Francisco to Chattanooga, you'll notice that while San Francisco prides itself on its innovative and health-conscious cuisine, Chattanooga offers a more traditional Southern comfort food approach. San Francisco's food scene is known for its diverse blend of international flavors, such as the iconic sourdough bread and the beloved Mission Burrito found in the vibrant Mission District. Chattanooga, on the other hand, promises to charm you with its hearty servings of barbecue ribs and the unique Chattanooga Dogs. For vegetarians and vegans, San Francisco’s variety, including the famed avocado toast, contrast with Chattanooga's barbecue-inspired vegan options like the BBQ Jackfruit Sandwich. Iconic eateries like Chez Panisse in San Francisco and Alleia in Chattanooga showcase the best of each city's culinary offerings, set against the backdrop of their distinct cultural atmospheres.

San Francisco vs. Chattanooga Restaurant Comparison

Finding a new favorite eatery can be a cornerstone of feeling at home in a new city. This restaurant comparison aims to ease your transition by matching top San Francisco gems with their Chattanooga equivalents , ensuring your move is as delicious as it is exciting.

San FranciscoChattanoogaWhat You'll Love
NopaAlleiaRustic Italian fare in an elegant setting
Tartine BakeryNiedlov's BreadWorksArtisan breads and pastries that echo Tartine's quality
La TaqueriaTaco MamacitaInnovative tacos with a focus on fresh ingredients
State Bird ProvisionsEasy Bistro & BarCreative cuisine in a chic, modern environment
Zuni CaféPublic HouseSophisticated comfort food in a relaxed atmosphere
Gary DankoSt. John's RestaurantFine dining with attention to detail and service
Bi-Rite CreameryClumpies Ice Cream Co.Handcrafted ice cream with inventive flavors
Foreign CinemaBoathouse Rotisserie & GrillUnique dining experience with scenic views
Brenda's French Soul FoodSyrup and EggsCreative breakfast and brunch with a Southern twist
Mission Chinese FoodUncle Larry's RestaurantKnown for their flavorful dishes and unique take on classics

When seeking a dining experience that mirrors the eclectic and vibrant nature of San Francisco but with a Chattanooga twist, you'll find comforting similarities yet exciting variations in these establishments. Alleia's Italian dishes, reminiscent of Nopa's rustic fare, are prepared with a finesse that would satisfy even the most discerning foodie. Meanwhile, Clumpies Ice Cream Co. offers an artisanal touch to desserts that would make any Bi-Rite Creamery fan feel right at home, with inventive flavors and quality ingredients. And for those who crave the innovative yet comforting Chinese cuisine akin to Mission Chinese Food, Uncle Larry's Restaurant provides an unexpectedly delightful twist on traditional favorites. Each Chattanooga eatery promises a culinary exploration that pays homage to San Francisco's diverse food scene.

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Ready to start your move?

San Francisco vs. Chattanooga Real Estate & Living Facts

When planning a move, comparing real estate between your current and future cities is crucial. This guide focuses on contrasting the housing landscapes between San Francisco and Chattanooga, highlighting key aspects such as cost, architecture, and lifestyle to better prepare you for what lies ahead.

ComparisonSan FranciscoChattanooga
Typical Architecture StyleVictorian and ModernCraftsman and Modern
Walkability 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listingPanoramic views, proximity to tech hubsScenic mountain views, historic neighborhoods

In comparing San Francisco and Chattanooga, it’s evident that your lifestyle may see significant shifts, especially in terms of housing costs and architectural styles. While San Francisco presents a dynamic urban setting with a high cost of living and iconic Victorian architecture, Chattanooga offers a serene environment complemented by Craftsman homes and more affordable living options. This stark contrast extends to walkability and the urban lifestyle score, indicating a potential transition from the hustle and bustle of city life in San Francisco to a more relaxed pace in Chattanooga. Notably, Chattanooga's appeal often lies in its scenic beauty and historic neighborhoods, a change from San Francisco's tech-centric allure and panoramic cityscapes. These differences could play a crucial role in not just where you decide to live, but how you envision your new life in Chattanooga.

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Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Chattanooga, TN

1. North Shore: Your furry friend will love exploring the spacious Renaissance Park and cooling off in the designated dog areas.

2. St. Elmo: This neighborhood is ideal for pet owners with its easy access to the Chickamauga and Chattanooga National Military Park, offering plenty of trails and green spaces for your pets to enjoy.

3. Highland Park: Known for its friendly community and walkable streets, you and your pet can enjoy daily walks to local pet-friendly cafes and the nearby Warner Park.

San Francisco vs. Chattanooga Weather Considerations

Moving from one location to another brings many changes, but understanding how the weather will compare between San Francisco and Chattanooga can help you prepare for your new environment. This comparison aims to illustrate the key climatic differences you should expect.

Summer icon
68°F / 55°F

San Francisco, CA

89°F / 69°F

Chattanooga, TN

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
57°F / 46°F

San Francisco, CA

49°F / 30°F

Chattanooga, TN

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
23.65

San Francisco, CA

52.48

Chattanooga, TN

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
0

San Francisco, CA

2

Chattanooga, TN

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

ComparisonSan FranciscoChattanooga
Air QualityGoodModerate
Natural DisastersEarthquakesTornadoes, Severe Thunderstorms
Days of Sunshine per Year☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. UV Index🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Avg. Annual Humidity💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦

When moving from San Francisco to Chattanooga, you can expect a significant shift in both temperature and seasonal experiences. Chattanooga experiences hot summers with high humidity, contrasting San Francisco's moderate climate. Winter in Chattanooga can bring occasional snowfall, a rare sight in San Francisco, offering a new seasonal dynamic. Moreover, Chattanooga's greater average annual rainfall contributes to its lush green scenery but also implies a need for readiness against possible thunderstorms. Adapting to these changes will be essential for comfortable living and exploring your new surroundings.

Ready to start your move?

Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from San Francisco to Chattanooga

When planning a move from San Francisco, CA to Chattanooga, TN, it's crucial to grasp how your finances will adapt. This comparison enlightens your understanding of the cost of living, taxes, and economic environment between San Francisco and Chattanooga, assisting you in making an informed decision.

ComparisonSan FranciscoChattanooga
Avg. Household Income$121,826$55,065
Cost of Living Index16491.1
State Income Tax13.30 (Tennessee has no state income tax)
Avg. Property Tax0.652.37
Avg. Sales Tax8.59.25
Top 3 IndustriesTechnology, Finance, TourismManufacturing, Healthcare, Education
AffluenceHighModerate
PovertyModerateHigher
HomelessnessSignificantLower

Moving from San Francisco to Chattanooga, you'll notice a stark difference in the cost of living, with Chattanooga being significantly more affordable. While the average household income in Chattanooga is less than half of San Francisco's, the absence of a state income tax in Tennessee can somewhat offset this disparity. The top industries in Chattanooga focus more on manufacturing, healthcare, and education, contrasting with San Francisco's tech-driven economy. Despite the lower affluence in Chattanooga, the city offers a cost-effective alternative with a growing economy and an appealing quality of life.

San Francisco vs. Chattanooga Political & Religious Comparison

This guide provides a quick snapshot to help you understand the comparison of the politics and religious makeup between San Francisco & Chattanooga . By comparing these aspects, you can gain insights into the cultural dynamics of your new city, making your transition smoother.

San FranciscoChattanooga
Political Make-upLiberal/DemocraticConservative/Republican
Local PoliticsProgressive policiesTraditional policies
ReligionMore secularMore religious, predominantly Christian

When relocating from San Francisco to Chattanooga, you'll find significant differences in political and religious climates. San Francisco, known for its liberal stance and progressive policies, contrasts sharply with Chattanooga's more conservative and traditional approach. San Francisco's secular culture might also be a shift for newcomers, as Chattanooga tends to have a stronger Christian presence, reflected in their local communities and establishments. Getting accustomed to this new environment might take time, but understanding these differences will be key to your adaptation and success in integrating into your new home.

San Francisco vs. Chattanooga Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

This guide is designed to help you better understand the daily commute and traffic is like by comparing the traffic and transportation options between San Francisco & Chattanooga. Whether you're considering moving or just visiting, this comparison will give you a clear picture of what to expect on the roads and how easy it is to get around.

ComparisonSan FranciscoChattanooga
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)3425
Traffic Congestion 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦
Availability of Public Transit 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇
Can you get by without car?YesNo

While in San Francisco, you might find that your average commute time is longer, and the traffic congestion can be quite challenging, not to mention the steep hills that the city is famous for. However, the city excels in offering extensive public transit options including the BART, buses, and the iconic cable cars, making it feasible to get around without a car. On the other hand, Chattanooga has a more laid-back traffic atmosphere, with shorter commute times and less congestion. But, it's crucial to have a car in Chattanooga, as the public transit options are significantly limited and less integrated into the city's fabric. This transition may require adjusting to Chattanooga's spacious layout and the necessity for personal transportation.

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