Best Salinas to Seattle Movers + Moving Guide

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If you're moving from Salinas to Seattle and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 898 mile move from California to Washington go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 33 Salinas to Seattle 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 Seattle Moves & More), how much the move costs (approximately $1,500 - $6,000 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Salinas compared to Seattle. 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 Salinas to Seattle Moving Companies

RankCompany NameRating QuestionAffordability IndexLicenseContact
1Seattle Moves & More9.549.39Authorized For HHGContact
2John Volken Academy Movers9.339.65Authorized For HHGContact
3Mod Movers8.808.1Authorized For HHGContact
4Poulos Moving Systems8.348.48Authorized For HHGContact
5Cardinale Moving & Storage7.617.06Authorized For HHGContact
Phone (800) 787-5428

Cost to Move from Salinas to Seattle

Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 898 miles from Salinas, CA to Seattle, WA will cost on average $2,545 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Salinas to Seattle move is roughly $6,111. 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$1,712300 ft³5.71
1 Bedroom$2,545450 ft³5.66
2 Bedrooms$4,204750 ft³5.61
3 Bedrooms$6,1111100 ft³5.56
4 Bedrooms$8,8081600 ft³5.51
5+ Bedrooms$9,8191800 ft³5.46
*Please note: These California to Washington moving prices are rough approximations based upon nationwide data as well as local and statewide data from California & Washington. 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 WA mover.
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Seattle to Salinas guide.

Compare the 5 Best Salinas to Seattle Movers

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

S

Seattle Moves & More

Exceptional9.54/10
based on 1,243+ data points

4601 Shilshole Ave NW

Seattle, WA, 98107

About Seattle Moves & More

Based in Seattle, Seattle Moves & More is a licensed, insured, and premier moving company in Seattle, WA, known for its...

Services

  • Residential & Commercial Moving
  • Long-Distance Relocation
  • Furniture Packing and Unpacking

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2962927 / 5796

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans1
Registered Drivers5
Total Annual Miles Moved31,000 (2023)
View Full Review
1
John Volken Academy Movers Logo

John Volken Academy Movers

Exceptional9.33/10
based on 1,571+ data points

921 Central Ave N

Kent, WA, 98032

About John Volken Academy Movers

John Volken Academy Movers is a not-for-profit moving company that helps people move across Western and Eastern Washington. This local business...

Services

  • Local Moving
  • Commercial Moving
  • Residential Moving

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2261169 / 1666977

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans6
Registered Drivers8
Total Annual Miles Moved200 (2015)
View Full Review
2
Mod Movers Logo

Mod Movers

Superb8.80/10
based on 1,087+ data points

1118 Airport Way STE 100

Monterey, CA, 93940

About Mod Movers

Mod Movers is one of the top-rated moving companies in Northern California. This locally-owned business in Monterey operates throughout the Golden...

Services

  • Local Movers
  • Long Distance Movers
  • Interstate Movers

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2983026 / 1294330

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans4
Registered Drivers4
Total Annual Miles Moved20,000 (2023)
View Full Review
3
Poulos Moving Systems Logo

Poulos Moving Systems

Very Good8.34/10
based on 527+ data points

222 Commission St

Salinas, CA, 93901

About Poulos Moving Systems

A locally owned and operated moving company that started in 2009, Poulos Moving Systems is proud to continue providing reliable and...

Services

  • Local Moves
  • Office Moves
  • Intrastate Moving

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2618126 / 1016606

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans9
Registered Drivers6
Total Annual Miles Moved39,036 (2022)
View Full Review
4
Cardinale Moving & Storage Logo

Cardinale Moving & Storage

7.61/10
based on 366+ data points

11360 Commercial Pkwy

Castroville, CA, 95012

About Cardinale Moving & Storage

Cardinale Moving & Storage is owned and operated by the Cardinale family who has lived on the Monterey peninsula for well...

Services

  • Local moves
  • Moves within California
  • Interstate moves

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

45193 / 138022

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans22
Registered Drivers20
Total Annual Miles Moved50,000 (2022)
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.

Salinas vs. Seattle Neighborhood Comparison

Making a big move can be intimidating, especially to an unfamiliar city. To ease this transition, we've crafted a comparison of the local neighborhoods between Salinas, CA & Seattle, WA. This guide will help you find a new neighborhood in Seattle that feels like home, using your current Salinas neighborhood as a baseline.

SalinasSeattleHow They're Similar
Maple ParkQueen AnneHistoric homes, family-friendly
South SalinasBallardVibrant, community-centric
North SalinasGreenwoodDiverse, up-and-coming
CreekbridgeMagnoliaSecluded, natural beauty
Laurel WoodWallingfordQuaint, great local amenities
Mission ParkWest SeattleStrong sense of community, ocean views
Harrod HomesBeacon HillDiverse, family-friendly
Monte Bella & East SalinasColumbia CityCulturally rich, vibrant
University ParkCapitol HillEclectic, energetic nightlife
Los Olivos & Bolsa KnollsFremontArtsy, quirky vibe

In Seattle, neighborhoods like Queen Anne and Ballard offer a charming blend of community and culture that you might already love about Salinas. Queen Anne, known for its historic homes and family-friendly atmosphere, is reminiscent of Maple Park's charm. On the other hand, Ballard, comparable to South Salinas, boasts a vibrant sense of community with numerous restaurants, breweries, and parks such as the Golden Gardens Park. For those who appreciate the diversity and up-and-coming vibe of North Salinas, Greenwood in Seattle offers a similar feel with an array of cozy cafes and boutique shops. Meanwhile, the natural beauty and secluded feel of Creekbridge can be found in Seattle's Magnolia neighborhood, offering serene views and plentiful green spaces like Discovery Park. For those moving from Mission Park or Monte Bella in Salinas, the ocean views and strong community vibe of West Seattle or the vibrant, culturally rich atmosphere of Columbia City are sure to feel like home.

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Things to Do in Seattle

  • Visit the Space Needle for iconic city views.
  • Explore Pike Place Market's unique shops.
  • Relax at Green Lake Park.
  • Discover art at Seattle Art Museum.
  • Enjoy a ferry ride to Bainbridge Island.
  • Watch a Mariners baseball game at T-Mobile Park.
  • Hike in Mount Rainier National Park.

Ready to start your move?

Pros and Cons of Moving from Salinas to Seattle

Moving between cities is a significant change that entails weighing various factors to make the best decision. This comparison aims to provide an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of relocating from Salinas, CA to Seattle, WA . Through our charts, you'll get a concise yet comprehensive view of what to expect in both locales, ensuring you're well-informed before making the leap.

CONs
PROs
Salinas, CA iconSalinas, CA
  • Higher crime rates
  • Less cultural scene
  • Smaller job market
  • Scarce public transportation
  • Fewer outdoor activities
Seattle, WA iconSeattle, WA
  • Lower crime rates
  • Vibrant cultural scene
  • Diverse job opportunities
  • Extensive public transportation
  • Abundant outdoor activities
Seattle, WA iconSeattle, WA
  • Higher living costs
  • More rainy days
  • Far from farmland
  • Busier city life
  • Larger class sizes
Salinas, CA iconSalinas, CA
  • More affordable housing
  • Sunnier weather
  • Close to agricultural land
  • Quieter city life
  • Smaller class sizes

Moving from Salinas to Seattle means trading in the sunny, agricultural backdrop of California for the lush, urban landscape of Washington State. Seattle boasts a vibrant cultural scene, with establishments like the Seattle Art Museum offering a feast for the senses, and the iconic Space Needle providing breathtaking views of the city. Outdoor enthusiasts will love the easy access to places like Green Lake Park for jogging and the nearby mountains for hiking. However, be prepared for higher living costs and more rainy days. Despite these challenges, Seattle's diverse job opportunities and extensive public transportation system present a welcoming environment for new residents seeking growth and adventure.

Salinas vs. Seattle Food Guide

This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Salinas & Seattle, showcasing how food plays a crucial role in understanding the cultural vibe and lifestyle of an area. This comparison will help you get acquainted with the culinary scene of your future home.

SalinasSeattle
Most iconic local food itemArtichokeSalmon
Most popular meat dishTri-tipTeriyaki
Most popular street food itemTacosHot Dogs
Most popular vegan foodKale SaladQuinoa Bowl
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
  • 1. The Steinbeck House
  • 2. First Awakenings
  • 3. Patria
  • 1. Pike Place Chowder
  • 2. Canlis
  • 3. The Pink Door
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
Abundance of Food Trucks🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
Foodie Scene🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

Exploring Salinas, you'll discover that artichokes reign supreme, a testament to California's rich agricultural legacy. Meanwhile, Seattle's culinary scene is anchored by its proximity to fresh, Pacific Northwest salmon. For meat lovers, Salinas offers the smoky, savory goodness of tri-tip, a California barbecue staple, while Seattle serves up a diverse range of international flavors, most notably its own unique spin on Teriyaki. The street food culture in both cities reflects their dynamic food scenes, from the authentic tacos found in East Salinas to the gourmet hot dogs in Seattle's Capitol Hill. As both cities pride themselves on their health-conscious and vegan-friendly options, you're sure to find an array of restaurants catering to every palate, from the historic charm of The Steinbeck House in Salinas to the iconic waterfront dining at The Pink Door in Seattle.

Salinas vs. Seattle Restaurant Comparison

When relocating, finding new favorite dining spots is crucial to feeling at home. This restaurant comparison from Salinas to Seattle aims to ease the transition by offering a culinary roadmap based on familiar flavors from your current hometown. Enjoy discovering tantalizing counterparts in your new city.

SalinasSeattleWhat You'll Love
Giorgio's Italian Food & PizzeriaTutta Bella Neapolitan PizzeriaAuthentic Neapolitan pizza using traditional ingredients.
Eagle RestaurantThe Pink DoorOffers a unique blend of Italian-American cuisine and live entertainment.
Salinas City BBQJack's BBQCentral Texas barbeque flavor in the heart of Seattle.
La Casa del SazonEl CamionCommitted to delivering robust Mexican flavors with a food truck origin.
Monterey Bay EatsEtta's SeafoodFresh, locally-sourced seafood dishes honoring the Pacific's bounty.
Gabilan PizzaDelanceyRenowned for wood-fired pizzas and a thoughtfully curated wine list.
Farm Fresh DeliHomegrownSustainably-sourced sandwiches showcasing local ingredients.
Steinbeck HouseThe Walrus and the CarpenterA modern blend of literary inspiration and Pacific Northwest cuisine.
Pupuseria Y Restaurante SalvadorenoBoca Restobar & GrillCelebrates Latin American flavors with a focus on Argentinean dishes.
First AwakeningsPortage Bay CaféKnown for local, organic breakfasts and a lively atmosphere.

Each restaurant in the comparison brings a slice of Salinas into the bustling food scene of Seattle. For instance, Giorgio's Italian Food & Pizzeria enthusiasts will find solace in Tutta Bella Neapolitan Pizzeria, where traditional techniques and ingredients are used to craft authentic Neapolitan pizzas that resonate with the tastes of Italy. Those missing the comforting flavors of Salinas City BBQ will be delighted by Jack's BBQ in Seattle, where the smoke-infused aroma and soul-satisfying Central Texas barbeque offer a taste reminiscent of home. Meanwhile, lovers of fresh, local seafood from Monterey Bay Eats will find a new haven in Etta's Seafood, where the focus on locally-sourced ingredients pays homage to the richness of the Pacific's marine life. Transitioning from Salinas to Seattle doesn’t mean leaving your favorite flavors behind; it's an opportunity to explore culinary parallels that bridge the gap between your old and new homes.

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Ready to start your move?

Salinas vs. Seattle Real Estate & Living Facts

When planning a move, it's crucial to consider the differences in housing between Salinas, CA, and Seattle, WA. This comparison will provide insights into various aspects like cost, architecture, and lifestyle, which are integral to making an informed decision.

ComparisonSalinasSeattle
Typical Architecture StyleRanchModern and Craftsman
Walkability 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listingLarge yards, proximity to agricultureViews of Puget Sound, eco-friendly features

Moving from Salinas to Seattle introduces you to different housing markets, architectural styles, and lifestyles. While Salinas offers more traditional ranch-style homes often with spacious yards, reflecting its agricultural roots, Seattle is known for its eco-friendly approaches, vibrant urban living, and homes with stunning views of Puget Sound. The demand for housing in Seattle leads to a higher median home price and rent, compounded by its desirability for its walkability, bikeability, and modern lifestyle. For those looking to embrace a bustling city life with environmental consciousness, Seattle's housing market offers compelling advantages over Salinas.

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Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Seattle, WA

1. Ballard: With its numerous off-leash dog parks, Ballard is ideal for your furry friends to run free and socialize.

2. Green Lake: Known for the pet-friendly Green Lake Park, you and your pet will enjoy the scenic 2.8-mile trail and ample green space for play.

3. Queen Anne: This neighborhood is packed with pet-friendly cafes and shops, plus it offers easy access to Kinnear Park's off-leash area, making it a perfect spot for pet owners.

Salinas vs. Seattle Weather Considerations

When planning your move from Salinas, CA to Seattle, WA, it's crucial to understand how the weather conditions will change. This comparison aims to highlight the differences you'll experience, ensuring you are well-prepared for your new environment. Salinas and Seattle offer distinct climates that could affect your daily life and activities.

Summer icon
70°F / 52°F

Salinas, CA

75°F / 55°F

Seattle, WA

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
62°F / 42°F

Salinas, CA

47°F / 37°F

Seattle, WA

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
15"

Salinas, CA

37"

Seattle, WA

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
0"

Salinas, CA

5"

Seattle, WA

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

ComparisonSalinasSeattle
Air QualityGoodModerate
Natural DisastersEarthquakesEarthquakes, Volcanoes
Days of Sunshine per Year☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. UV Index🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Avg. Annual Humidity💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦

Understanding the weather changes between Salinas and Seattle can significantly impact your lifestyle and what you'll need to adapt. For instance, while Salinas enjoys a moderate climate with abundant sunshine throughout the year, Seattle experiences a greater number of cloudy days, along with higher humidity and rainfall. This leads to a lush landscape but also means investing in rain gear and possibly a more robust wardrobe for the cooler, damp winters. Air quality and allergen differences may also necessitate adjustments in daily routines or health management plans.

Ready to start your move?

Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Salinas to Seattle

When planning a move from Salinas, CA to Seattle, WA, it's crucial to understand how the cost of living and economic conditions in Salinas compare to Seattle. This comparison will help you adjust your budget and financial expectations appropriately.

ComparisonSalinasSeattle
Avg. Household Income$80,154$110,781
Cost of Living Index136.4121.4
State Income Tax0-13.3None
Avg. Property Tax0.790.99
Avg. Sales Tax9.2510.1
Top 3 IndustriesAgriculture, Manufacturing, HealthcareTechnology, Healthcare, Manufacturing
AffluenceModerateHigh
PovertyNoticeableLower
HomelessnessConcerningSignificant

When moving from Salinas to Seattle, anticipate a higher cost of living, primarily due to housing and goods. However, Seattle's lack of state income tax can be a financial relief, especially for those earning higher incomes. The average household income in Seattle is notably higher than in Salinas, reflecting the booming tech industry and the overall affluence of its residents. Although Seattle is known for its high levels of homelessness, it also boasts a more vibrant job market with top industries such as technology and healthcare. Understanding these dynamics is critical for planning your financial transition and adapting to your new environment.

Salinas vs. Seattle Political & Religious Comparison

In this quick guide, we provide an at-a-glance comparison to help you understand the differences in the political and religious landscapes between Salinas, CA & Seattle, WA . Whether you're curious about local politics, the broader political makeup, or the religious atmosphere, this snapshot aims to shed some light on what you can expect as you transition between these two cities.

SalinasSeattle
Political Make-upLeans DemocraticStrongly Democratic
Local PoliticsFocus on agriculture, educationFocus on technology, environment
ReligionChristianity DominantLess Religiously Affiliated

When comparing Salinas and Seattle, one of the most notable differences lies in their political landscapes. Salinas leans Democratic, but Seattle is known for its strong Democratic tendencies, reflecting the liberal mindset prevalent in the city. This political inclination in Seattle aligns closely with its emphasis on technology and environmental sustainability in local politics, contrasting with Salinas's focus on agriculture and education. Regarding religion, Salinas has a higher concentration of individuals identifying with Christianity, whereas Seattle is known for a significant portion of its population being less religiously affiliated, marking a considerable cultural shift you might notice upon relocation.

Salinas vs. Seattle Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

In preparing for a move, understanding how daily commuting and traffic might change is crucial. This comparison of traffic and transportation options between Salinas & Seattle can help you anticipate what your daily commute might look like in a new city environment.

ComparisonSalinasSeattle
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)2328
Traffic Congestion 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦
Availability of Public Transit 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇
Can you get by without car?NoYes

In Seattle, you'll likely notice an increase in daily commute time and face higher levels of traffic congestion compared to Salinas. However, this is balanced by Seattle's more robust public transit system, which includes buses, light rail, and ferries, making it easier to navigate the city without a car. In contrast, while Salinas has a more manageable level of traffic congestion and shorter average commute times, its public transit options are not as extensive, making a car almost essential for getting around efficiently.

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