Best Boise to San Francisco Movers + Moving Guide

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If you're moving from Boise to San Francisco and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 640 mile move from Idaho to California go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 12 Boise to San Francisco 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 - $5,500 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Boise compared to San Francisco. 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 Boise to San Francisco Moving Companies

RankCompany NameRating QuestionAffordability IndexLicenseContact
1OCD Moving Services LLC9.669.47Authorized For HHGContact
2208 Moving Company9.499.63Authorized For HHGContact
3Valley Custom Moving9.399.69Authorized For HHGContact
4Bay - L.A. Express Moving9.329.49Authorized For HHGContact
5Boise Local Boys Moving Company9.209.54Authorized For HHGContact
Phone (800) 787-5428

Cost to Move from Boise to San Francisco

Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 640 miles from Boise, ID to San Francisco, CA will cost on average $2,325 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Boise to San Francisco move is roughly $5,574. 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$1,565300 ft³5.22
1 Bedroom$2,325450 ft³5.17
2 Bedrooms$3,838750 ft³5.12
3 Bedrooms$5,5741100 ft³5.07
4 Bedrooms$8,0281600 ft³5.02
5+ Bedrooms$8,9421800 ft³4.97
*Please note: These Idaho to California moving prices are rough approximations based upon nationwide data as well as local and statewide data from Idaho & California. 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 ID to CA mover.
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from San Francisco to Boise guide.

Compare the 5 Best Boise to San Francisco 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
208 Moving Company Logo

208 Moving Company

Exceptional9.49/10
based on 2,382+ data points

6052 Corporal Ln

Boise, ID, 83704

About 208 Moving Company

With over 5,000 satisfied customers and close to 9,000 boxes moved, 208 Moving Company provides you with the confidence you need...

Services

  • Local movers in Boise, ID
  • Long-distance moves throughout the continental United States
  • Residential Moving

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2522386 / 875791

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans15
Registered Drivers15
Total Annual Miles Moved30,000 (2024)
View Full Review
2
Valley Custom Moving Logo

Valley Custom Moving

Exceptional9.39/10
based on 1,163+ data points

1404 W Waltman Dr

Meridian, ID, 83642

About Valley Custom Moving

Valley Custom Moving is a full-service moving company headquartered in Treasure Valley, Idaho that provides all types of moves, from large...

Services

  • Local moving
  • Long-distance moving
  • Packing

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3254761 / 1025000

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans8
Registered Drivers8
Total Annual Miles Moved700,000 (2021)
View Full Review
3
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
4
Boise Local Boys Moving Company Logo

Boise Local Boys Moving Company

Exceptional9.20/10
based on 539+ data points

Boise, ID, 83706

About Boise Local Boys Moving Company

Founded in 2018 by Brandon Lyda, Boise Local Boys Moving Company is a locally owned and operated moving service in Boise,...

Services

  • Local Moving
  • Packing
  • Furniture Assembly

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3630795 / 1243837

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans2
Registered Drivers2
Total Annual Miles Moved30,000 (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.

Boise vs. San Francisco Neighborhood Comparison

Moving can be daunting, especially when you're heading to a new city with unfamiliar neighborhoods. To ease the transition, we've crafted a comparison to help you familiarize yourself with San Francisco using Boise as a baseline. By aligning Boise, ID & San Francisco, CA neighborhoods , we aim to match you with a new community that resonates with your current preferences.

BoiseSan FranciscoHow They're Similar
North EndHaight-AshburyBohemian, historic homes
Boise BenchInner RichmondDiverse, family-friendly
Downtown BoiseFinancial DistrictUrban, commercial hub
East EndPacific HeightsUpscale, panoramic views
Harris RanchMarina DistrictWaterfront, recreational
Hyde ParkCole ValleyQuaint, vibrant community
Warm SpringsNoe ValleyFamily-oriented, sunny
Depot BenchMission DistrictCultural, eclectic nightlife
Southeast BoiseBernal HeightsQuiet, community-centric
West BoiseSunset DistrictResidential, laid-back

For those charmed by the historic homes and the lush, expansive parks of Boise's North End, Haight-Ashbury's bohemian ambiance and preserved Victorian houses offer a similar vibe amidst the bustling city of San Francisco. Meanwhile, if the urban dynamism of Downtown Boise appeals to you, the Financial District in San Francisco provides an unparalleled commercial hub filled with towering skyscrapers and a vibrant street life. For a more serene setting akin to Harris Ranch, the Marina District not only presents waterfront living but also houses recreational spots like the Marina Green and scenic views of the Golden Gate Bridge, making it a perfect blend for those seeking both leisure and picturesque surroundings.

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Pros and Cons of Moving from Boise to San Francisco

Moving from one city to another carries both opportunities and challenges. This comparison aims to offer an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of relocating from Boise, ID to San Francisco, CA. By juxtaposing these elements, we hope to provide a comprehensive view that aids in your decision-making process. The comparison charts below show the pros and cons of moving from Boise, ID to San Francisco, CA and vice versa, highlighting the most significant changes you might experience.

CONs
PROs
Boise, ID iconBoise, ID
  • Lower job opportunities
  • Less diverse dining
  • Minimal public transit
  • Smaller cultural scene
  • Less tech industry presence
San Francisco, CA iconSan Francisco, CA
  • Higher job opportunities
  • World-class cuisine
  • Extensive public transport
  • Vibrant cultural diversity
  • Major tech hub
San Francisco, CA iconSan Francisco, CA
  • Higher cost of living
  • More crowded
  • Less personal space
  • Heavy traffic
  • Faster pace of life
Boise, ID iconBoise, ID
  • Lower cost of living
  • More open spaces
  • Close-knit community
  • Less traffic congestion
  • Quieter lifestyle

The decision to relocate from Boise, ID, to San Francisco, CA, involves considering various factors such as job prospects, cost of living, and lifestyle preferences. San Francisco is renowned for its extensive public transport network, offering ease of mobility throughout the beautiful city, dotted with world-class restaurants like Gary Danko and vibrant neighborhoods such as the Mission District, famous for its Mexican eateries and Dolores Park. Meanwhile, Boise's appeal lies in its affordable living, close-knit communities, and abundance of nature, perfect for those who prioritize space and a quieter pace. Moving to San Francisco offers a bustling urban experience with unparalleled cultural diversity and rich job opportunities, particularly in the tech industry. Weighing these aspects carefully will help ensure that your big move aligns with your lifestyle and career goals.

Boise vs. San Francisco Food Guide

When considering a move, the local food scene is a vibrant aspect of a city's culture. In this guide, we'll delve into the comparison of the local cuisine between Boise & San Francisco to give you a taste of what culinary delights await in your new home.

BoiseSan Francisco
Most iconic local food itemIdaho PotatoesSourdough Bread
Most popular meat dishSteakSeafood (Cioppino)
Most popular street food itemFinger SteaksMission Burrito
Most popular vegan foodQuinoa BowlsAvocado Toast
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
  • Boise Fry Company
  • Bardenay
  • Fork
  • Tartine Bakery
  • Swan Oyster Depot
  • Slanted Door
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
Abundance of Food Trucks🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
Foodie Scene🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

In Boise, Idaho Potatoes reign supreme, often finding their way into dishes like the iconic Finger Steaks, best enjoyed at local favorites such as the Boise Fry Company. Steak and Quinoa Bowls reflect the city's love for hearty, earthy flavors with a nod to health-conscious eating. On the other hand, San Francisco's culinary scene thrives on its eclectic and international influences, with Sourdough Bread and Seafood Cioppino epitomizing the city's iconic fare. The Mission Burrito, a local invention, can be savored in the vibrant Mission District, known for its dynamic food scene. San Francisco also boasts a higher number of vegan-friendly options and health-conscious choices, reflecting its diverse and inclusive culinary landscape. Iconic establishments like Tartine Bakery and Swan Oyster Depot are essential stops for any food lover seeking to experience the true essence of San Francisco's gastronomy.

Boise vs. San Francisco Restaurant Comparison

When making a move from Boise, ID to San Francisco, CA, finding your new go-to eateries is key to feeling at home. This restaurant comparison will help bridge the foodie gap between Boise and San Francisco, guiding you towards familiar flavors in a new city.

BoiseSan FranciscoWhat You'll Love
Chandlers SteakhouseHarris’ SteakhouseBoth offer high-end dining and succulent steaks, upholding traditional American steakhouse vibes.
BardenayAnchor Brewing CompanyA pioneer in craft brewing and distilling, much like Bardenay's unique status in Boise.
Goldy's Breakfast BistroMama's on Washington SquareBoth are beloved for their hearty, home-style breakfasts and charming atmosphere.
Boise Fry CompanyGott’s RoadsideA modern approach to fast-casual dining specializing in burgers and fries with local flair.
ForkZuni CaféEateries celebrated for their commitment to farm-to-table dining and innovative, seasonal menus.
Petite 4FrancesBoth restaurants offer an intimate setting with a focus on meticulous, French-inspired cuisine.
Barbacoa GrillArguelloThey share a passion for fiery, authentic Southwestern and Mexican dishes in an upscale environment.
The Basque MarketPiperadeBoth celebrate the depth of Basque cuisine, offering an array of traditional dishes and tapas.
AlavitaFlour + WaterRenowned for their handmade pasta and Italian dishes, both provide a modern twist on classic flavors.
Madhuban Indian CuisineDosaBoth are standout choices for high-quality, authentic Indian food, showcasing regional specialties and flavors.

When you find yourself missing the cozy and familiar ambiance of Boise's Goldy's Breakfast Bistro, San Francisco’s Mama's on Washington Square will welcome you with its similarly homey vibe and hearty breakfasts. Meanwhile, Boise Fry Company fans will appreciate the dedication to locally sourced ingredients and the casual, yet inventive, approach found at Gott’s Roadside in San Francisco. For those who have cherished the unique Basque flavors at The Basque Market, Piperade in San Francisco will continue to satiate your cravings with its traditional Basque dishes, offering a slice of European culinary culture right in the heart of the city.

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Boise vs. San Francisco Real Estate & Living Facts

When planning a move, understanding the real estate landscape is crucial. This comparison between Boise, ID and San Francisco, CA highlights key differences in housing costs, architecture, and lifestyle . Whether you're buying or renting, these insights will help you navigate your housing options in these cities effectively.

ComparisonBoiseSan Francisco
Typical Architecture StyleCraftsman and RanchVictorian and Modern
Walkability 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listingQuiet neighborhoods, family-friendlyProximity to tech jobs, vibrant cultural scene

In Boise, you'll find housing options that blend modern living with access to nature, characterized by Craftsman and Ranch-style homes that prioritize space and comfort. Meanwhile, San Francisco's real estate market is known for its Victorian and modern architecture, offering a unique blend of history and contemporary design. The city's unmatched walkability and urban lifestyle reflect its standing as a cultural and technological hub. San Francisco's proximity to major tech jobs and vibrant cultural scene makes it a highly desirable, albeit expensive, place to live. In contrast, Boise offers an attractive, more affordable alternative, with its family-friendly neighborhoods and growing job market, making it an appealing choice for those looking to balance urban and outdoor living.

Boise vs. San Francisco Weather Considerations

When planning a move from one city to another, understanding how the weather varies between Boise, ID and San Francisco, CA is crucial. This comparison will help you adapt to your new environment by highlighting key climatic differences.

Summer icon
89°F / 57°F

Boise, ID

69°F / 54°F

San Francisco, CA

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
38°F / 24°F

Boise, ID

57°F / 46°F

San Francisco, CA

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
12

Boise, ID

23

San Francisco, CA

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
19

Boise, ID

0

San Francisco, CA

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

ComparisonBoiseSan Francisco
Air QualityModerateGood
Natural DisastersWildfires, FloodingEarthquakes, Tsunamis
Days of Sunshine per Year☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. UV Index🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Avg. Annual Humidity💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦

When you move from Boise to San Francisco, you'll experience milder summers and warmer winters. The humid maritime climate of San Francisco results in more fog and fewer days of intense sunlight compared to Boise's semi-arid conditions, which include hotter summers and colder winters. Additionally, while Boise residents might prepare for wildfires and flooding, moving to San Francisco means adapting to the possibility of earthquakes. Understanding these weather differences can greatly aid in your transition, ensuring you're well-prepared for your new environment.

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

If you're considering a move, it's crucial to grasp how the cost of living and fiscal dynamics in Boise compare to those in San Francisco. Such an understanding will empower you to make informed financial decisions tailored to your new environment.

ComparisonBoiseSan Francisco
Avg. Household Income$70,217$121,826
Cost of Living Index97.2164
State Income Tax6.513.3 max
Avg. Property Tax0.750.6
Avg. Sales Tax68.5
Top 3 IndustriesTechnology, Agriculture, ManufacturingTechnology, Finance, Tourism
AffluenceModerateHigh
PovertyModerateLow
HomelessnessLowHigh

When moving from Boise to San Francisco, you'll encounter not just a change in scenery but a significant shift in financial environment. The average household income in San Francisco significantly surpasses that of Boise, aligning with its high cost of living index. Notably, San Francisco's cost of living is nearly triple that of Boise's, reflecting the upscale demands of living in a major urban center. State income tax top rates are higher in California, potentially impacting take-home pay. The industries dominant in each city point towards the economic drivers and employment opportunities awaiting you. This transition underlines the importance of preparing for steeper living expenses and adjusting your budget to accommodate the financial landscape of San Francisco.

Boise vs. San Francisco Political & Religious Comparison

Considering a move from Boise to San Francisco? It's helpful to have a comparison of the politics between Boise & San Francisco at your fingertips. This quick overview provides insight into the political and religious makeup of the two cities, offering a snapshot of what to expect from your new neighbors.

BoiseSan Francisco
Political Make-upLean ConservativeHighly Liberal
Local PoliticsMixed, with a tilt towards Republican governanceStrongly Democratic
ReligionChristian majority, with significant faith-based organizationsDiverse religious landscape, including Buddhism and non-religious leanings

Boise and San Francisco present contrasting environments in terms of political and religious climates. Boise generally leans conservative, with local politics often reflecting a mix of ideologies but skewing towards Republican governance. Religious affiliations in Boise largely trend towards Christianity, supported by several local organizations. On the other hand, San Francisco is known for its liberal stance, with a political landscape dominantly Democratic. The city boasts a wide array of religious beliefs, including significant Buddhist communities and a notable portion of the population identifying as non-religious. This diversity reflects in various aspects of city life, providing a broad spectrum of cultural experiences and social atmospheres for newcomers.

Boise vs. San Francisco Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

Moving from Boise, ID, to San Francisco, CA, invites a comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Boise & San Francisco. Understanding the differences in daily commutes and traffic can significantly ease your transition and daily routine in a new city.

ComparisonBoiseSan Francisco
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)2034
Traffic Congestion 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦
Availability of Public Transit 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇
Can you get by without car?DifficultYes

Moving to San Francisco, you'll quickly notice the contrast in commuting experiences. Not only is the average commute time longer, but the city also presents higher levels of traffic congestion. However, San Francisco excels in offering diverse and efficient public transit options, such as Muni, BART, and others, making it entirely feasible to navigate the city without a car. This stark difference from Boise, where a car is more of a necessity due to less available public transit, can significantly impact your daily life and planning.

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