Best San Francisco to Seattle Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from San Francisco to Seattle and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 811 mile move from California to Washington go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 34 San Francisco 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 OCD Moving Services LLC), 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 San Francisco 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.
Best San Francisco to Seattle Moving Companies
| Rank | Company Name | Rating  | Affordability Index | License | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | OCD Moving Services LLC | 9.66 | 9.47 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 2 | Seattle Moves & More | 9.54 | 9.39 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 3 | John Volken Academy Movers | 9.33 | 9.65 | 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 Seattle
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 811 miles from San Francisco, CA to Seattle, WA will cost on average $2,471 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom San Francisco to Seattle move is roughly $5,930. 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 | $1,662 | 300 ft³ | 5.54 |
| 1 Bedroom | $2,471 | 450 ft³ | 5.49 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $4,081 | 750 ft³ | 5.44 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $5,930 | 1100 ft³ | 5.39 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $8,545 | 1600 ft³ | 5.34 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $9,524 | 1800 ft³ | 5.29 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Seattle to San Francisco guide.
Compare the 5 Best San Francisco to Seattle 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) |
Seattle Moves & More
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
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2962927 / 5796 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 1 |
| Registered Drivers | 5 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 31,000 (2023) |
John Volken Academy Movers
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
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2261169 / 1666977 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 6 |
| Registered Drivers | 8 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 200 (2015) |
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. Seattle Neighborhood Comparison
Relocating can be an overwhelming process, especially when moving to a city you're unfamiliar with. To ease the transition, we've created a comparison of local neighborhoods between San Francisco, CA & Seattle, WA . This guide will help you find a neighborhood in Seattle that mirrors the vibe and lifestyle of your favorite San Francisco area, making you feel right at home from day one.
| San Francisco | Seattle | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| The Mission | Capitol Hill | Vibrant nightlife, diverse food scene |
| Nob Hill | Queen Anne | Historic homes, scenic views |
| SoMa | South Lake Union | Tech hub, modern living |
| Haight-Ashbury | Fremont | Bohemian vibe, unique shops |
| Marina | Ballard | Waterfront locale, lively atmosphere |
| Pacific Heights | Madison Park | Upscale, serene setting |
| North Beach | Pike Place Market | Historic area, cultural hub |
| Castro | Capitol Hill | LGBTQ+ friendly, vibrant community |
| Richmond | Green Lake | Family-friendly, outdoor activities |
| Sunset | West Seattle | Peaceful, beach access |
Exploring the neighborhoods of Capitol Hill and Fremont in Seattle, you'll discover a wealth of dining, shopping, and entertainment options reminiscent of The Mission and Haight-Ashbury in San Francisco. Capitol Hill, known for its electric nightlife and LGBTQ+ friendly atmosphere, is home to a variety of restaurants and cafes, including the historic Café Presse. Similarly, Fremont, with its bohemian vibe, offers unique shopping experiences and annual events like the Fremont Solstice Parade. Meanwhile, for those who appreciate waterfront views and a lively atmosphere, Ballard mirrors San Francisco's Marina District—complete with trendy eateries such as Ray's Boathouse, overlooking the scenic Puget Sound. These Seattle neighborhoods not only provide environments similar to your San Francisco favorites but also introduce the unique charm and culture that Seattle has to offer.
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 San Francisco to Seattle
Moving from San Francisco, CA to Seattle, WA offers a unique opportunity to re-evaluate what you want out of city life. This honest comparison is designed to present a balanced view of the relocation, highlighting both appealing and less desirable aspects. By understanding these differences, you can make a well-informed decision about your move.
San Francisco, CA- High living costs
- Dense traffic
- Foggy weather
Seattle, WA- More affordable
- Less congestion
- More greenery
Seattle, WA- Rainy days
- Less sunshine
- Smaller tech scene
San Francisco, CA- Vibrant tech scene
- Iconic landmarks
- Cultural diversity
While you may miss the bustling, vibrant tech scene and iconic landmarks like the Golden Gate Bridge, moving to Seattle offers its unique charms. Seattle is known for its lush greenery, exemplified by the breathtaking views at Discovery Park. If you're a foodie, the transition can be sweetened by exploring renowned restaurants such as The Pink Door in Pike Place Market, famous for its Italian-American cuisine with a waterfront view. Although you might need to adjust to Seattle's infamous rainy days, the city's coffee culture, with flagship stores like Starbucks Reserve Roastery, ensures you'll have the perfect refuge. Remember, every city has its tradeoffs, but Seattle's unique blend of nature, cuisine, and a slightly slower pace of life offers a refreshing change from San Francisco's intensity.
San Francisco vs. Seattle Food Guide
Food plays a pivotal role in understanding the local culture and lifestyle of a place. By conducting a comparison of the local cuisine between San Francisco & Seattle , we aim to provide you with a deeper insight into what your culinary life would look like should you decide to move. This comparison will help you navigate the vibrant food scenes in both cities.
| San Francisco | Seattle | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Sourdough Bread | Salmon |
| Most popular meat dish | Cioppino | Teryiaki |
| Most popular street food item | Mission Burrito | Hot Dog |
| Most popular vegan food | Avocado Toast | Pho |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
When considering the food scenes of San Francisco and Seattle, each city brings its unique flavors and culinary experiences. In San Francisco, neighborhoods like the Mission District are famous for their Mission Burritos, a hearty and beloved street food. Tartine Bakery in the Mission is a must-visit for any food lover, offering some of the best sourdough you'll ever taste. On the other hand, Seattle's food scene thrives on its seafood, with Salmon being an iconic dish. Pike Place Market is not just a landmark but a treasure trove of fresh seafood, including the Seattle staple, Pike Place Chowder. Both cities offer diverse and rich culinary landscapes, from the health-conscious and plentiful vegan options to the vibrant food truck scenes, ensuring that your move will be a delightful journey for your taste buds.
San Francisco vs. Seattle Restaurant Comparison
When relocating, discovering new favorite eateries can transform a city into a home. This comparison of top restaurants from San Francisco to Seattle is designed to help you find your new go-to spots, using familiar flavors as your guide. San Francisco to Seattle restaurant comparison charts offer a taste of home with a local twist, ensuring you'll never miss out on exceptional dining experiences, no matter where you are.
| San Francisco | Seattle | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Zuni Café | Canlis | Upscale dining with a similar focus on meticulous preparation and local ingredients |
| Tartine Bakery | Bakery Nouveau | Artisanal bakery offering comparable high-quality, fresh-baked bread and pastries |
| La Taqueria | Tacos Chukis | Offers authentic flavors reminiscent of the Mission District staple |
| Swan Oyster Depot | Taylor Shellfish Oyster Bar | Similar commitment to fresh, high-quality seafood in a casual setting |
| State Bird Provisions | JuneBaby | Creative American cuisine with an innovative, ever-changing menu |
| Mister Jiu’s | Wild Ginger | Iconic for its modern take on traditional Asian dishes, facilitating a similar dining experience |
| Foreign Cinema | The Pink Door | Offers an eclectic mix of fine food and entertainment, akin to Foreign Cinema's unique ambiance |
| The Slanted Door | Monsoon Seattle | Boasting modern Vietnamese dishes with a focus on farm-to-table freshness |
| Tony’s Pizza Napoletana | Delancey | High quality, wood-fired pizzas with a commitment to authenticity and taste |
| Benu | Altura | Offers a similarly exquisite fine dining experience focusing on local and seasonal ingredients |
For those who cherish dining as an experience, both San Francisco and Seattle offer unique spots that are sure to delight. Zuni Café in San Francisco, renowned for its roasted chicken and warm atmosphere, finds its match in Seattle's Canlis, where the scenic views complement an exquisite menu. Bakery enthusiasts missing Tartine Bakery's sourdough will find solace in Bakery Nouveau's array of fresh, flavorful bread and pastries. And, seafood lovers accustomed to the fresh catches at Swan Oyster Depot can continue their culinary adventures at Taylor Shellfish Oyster Bar in Seattle, where the oysters are as fresh and the experience just as memorable. These matches not only highlight the caliber of dining available but also underscore the vibrant culinary scenes that make both cities a foodie’s paradise.
Ready to start your move?
San Francisco vs. Seattle Real Estate & Living Facts
Real estate shapes a significant part of your moving experience, making it essential to understand how the housing landscapes of San Francisco and Seattle compare. This comparison aims to clarify the distinctions and similarities in their real estate markets, focusing on cost, architectural styles, and the essence of urban living.
| Comparison | San Francisco | Seattle |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Victorian and Edwardian | Contemporary and Craftsman |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Bay views, rooftop decks | Park access, green technology |
When analyzing the real estate differences between San Francisco and Seattle, it's evident that cost plays a significant role in your decision-making process. San Francisco's higher median home prices and rents reflect its status as one of the most expensive cities in the U.S., driven by high demand and limited space. While both cities tout an urban lifestyle, San Francisco edges out with its unparalleled walkability, emblematic of its compact, densely populated nature. However, Seattle's emphasis on park access and green technology in its listings highlights a community focused on sustainability and access to natural beauty. This contrast in lifestyle and community values might significantly influence your choice depending on your priorities and lifestyle preferences.
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.
San Francisco vs. Seattle Weather Considerations
Moving from one location to another means adapting to new climates and seasons. This comparison primarily focuses on weather differences between San Francisco and Seattle , crucial for planning your relocation. Understanding these variations helps you anticipate changes in daily life and prepare accordingly.
San Francisco, CA
Seattle, WA
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
San Francisco, CA
Seattle, WA
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
San Francisco, CA
Seattle, WA
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
San Francisco, CA
Seattle, WA
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | San Francisco | Seattle |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Good | Moderate |
| Natural Disasters | Earthquakes, Fog | Earthquakes, Volcanoes |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
When moving from San Francisco to Seattle, you'll notice several major weather changes. Seattle experiences a significant reduction in sunny days annually, highlighting the city's reputation for cloudy skies. Despite having similar summer temperatures, winter in Seattle is noticeably colder and wetter, reflecting in its higher annual rainfall. Additionally, while both cities face the risk of earthquakes, Seattle's proximity to volcanoes marks a unique difference in potential natural disasters. Adapting to these weather conditions means preparing for more rain and embracing the lush, green surroundings that benefit from it.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from San Francisco to Seattle
When considering a move, it's crucial to understand the financial differences between your current and future homes. This comparison provides insights into the economic landscapes of San Francisco and Seattle, focusing on aspects that directly impact your budget and lifestyle. By examining these facets, you grasp how your money and living experience will compare.
| Comparison | San Francisco | Seattle |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $121,826 | $110,781 |
| Cost of Living Index | 164 | 121.4 |
| State Income Tax | 13.3 | 0 |
| Avg. Property Tax | 0.6 | 0.9 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 8.5 | 10.1 |
| Top 3 Industries | Technology, Finance, Tourism | Technology, Aerospace, Retail |
| Affluence | High | High |
| Poverty | Low | Moderate |
| Homelessness | Significant | Significant |
Moving from San Francisco to Seattle might be a financial relief in several ways. Despite both cities housing robust technology sectors that drive high average household incomes, you'll find a stark difference in cost of living and state income tax rates. Seattle's absence of a state income tax presents a significant saving opportunity compared to California's high tax rate. However, be mindful of Seattle's higher average sales tax and property tax rates. Both cities showcase high affluence levels but differ in their poverty and homelessness challenges, reflecting the complex socio-economic tapestries you'll navigate in each location.
San Francisco vs. Seattle Political & Religious Comparison
Moving from San Francisco to Seattle? Get a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents in your new city. This guide offers a comparison of the politics between San Francisco & Seattle alongside insights into local religious communities. It's designed to help you understand the socio-cultural environment awaiting you.
| San Francisco | Seattle | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Heavily Democratic | Strongly Democratic |
| Local Politics | Liberal, with a focus on social issues | Progressive, with emphasis on environmental and social justice |
| Religion | Diverse; includes Christianity, Buddhism, Judaism, and others | Diverse; significant presence of Christianity, Buddhism, and non-religious groups |
Both San Francisco and Seattle share a predominantly Democratic political identity, although the nuances of local politics and issues of focus might vary. In San Francisco, politics lean more towards liberal stances with a marked emphasis on social issues. Seattle, while also progressive, places a stronger emphasis on environmental and social justice issues. Religious diversity is a hallmark of both cities, with a variety of faiths co-existing, from Christianity to Buddhism. This diversity fosters a rich, inclusive culture that you'll soon be a part of. Understanding these similarities and differences can smooth your transition and help you engage with your new community more deeply.
San Francisco vs. Seattle Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Moving from San Francisco, CA to Seattle, WA, it's vital to compare the traffic and transportation options between San Francisco & Seattle to better understand what your daily commute and traffic might be like.
| Comparison | San Francisco | Seattle |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 34 | 28 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without a car? | Yes | Yes, but it's more challenging |
San Francisco and Seattle both offer robust public transit options, but the efficiency and necessity vary between the two. In San Francisco, the BART and Muni networks make it quite feasible to navigate the city without a car. Coupled with its higher traffic congestion, living car-free is often a more attractive option. Seattle, while still providing a solid public transportation system through Metro and Sound Transit, tends to be a bit more car-dependent, especially when venturing outside the urban core. Nonetheless, both cities encourage biking and have growing networks of bike lanes. The key difference lies in the average commute times and slightly less congestion in Seattle, potentially making commutes faster on average than in San Francisco.
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