Best Boise to San Francisco Movers + Moving Guide
Want help with the heavy lifting?
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.

Best Boise to San Francisco Moving Companies
Rank | Company Name | Rating | Affordability Index | License | Contact |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
1 | OCD Moving Services LLC | 9.66 | 9.47 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
2 | 208 Moving Company | 9.49 | 9.63 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
3 | Valley Custom Moving | 9.39 | 9.69 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
4 | Bay - L.A. Express Moving | 9.32 | 9.49 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
5 | Boise Local Boys Moving Company | 9.20 | 9.54 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
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 Size | Moving Cost | Volume of Packed Items (ft³) | $/ft³ |
---|---|---|---|
Studio | $1,565 | 300 ft³ | 5.22 |
1 Bedroom | $2,325 | 450 ft³ | 5.17 |
2 Bedrooms | $3,838 | 750 ft³ | 5.12 |
3 Bedrooms | $5,574 | 1100 ft³ | 5.07 |
4 Bedrooms | $8,028 | 1600 ft³ | 5.02 |
5+ Bedrooms | $8,942 | 1800 ft³ | 4.97 |


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
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) |

208 Moving Company
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
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2522386 / 875791 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
Registered Trucks/Vans | 15 |
Registered Drivers | 15 |
Total Annual Miles Moved | 30,000 (2024) |

Valley Custom Moving
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
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3254761 / 1025000 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
Registered Trucks/Vans | 8 |
Registered Drivers | 8 |
Total Annual Miles Moved | 700,000 (2021) |
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) |

Boise Local Boys Moving Company
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
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3630795 / 1243837 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
Registered Trucks/Vans | 2 |
Registered Drivers | 2 |
Total Annual Miles Moved | 30,000 (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.
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.
Boise | San Francisco | How They're Similar |
---|---|---|
North End | Haight-Ashbury | Bohemian, historic homes |
Boise Bench | Inner Richmond | Diverse, family-friendly |
Downtown Boise | Financial District | Urban, commercial hub |
East End | Pacific Heights | Upscale, panoramic views |
Harris Ranch | Marina District | Waterfront, recreational |
Hyde Park | Cole Valley | Quaint, vibrant community |
Warm Springs | Noe Valley | Family-oriented, sunny |
Depot Bench | Mission District | Cultural, eclectic nightlife |
Southeast Boise | Bernal Heights | Quiet, community-centric |
West Boise | Sunset District | Residential, 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.
Ready to start your move?
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.
- Lower job opportunities
- Less diverse dining
- Minimal public transit
- Smaller cultural scene
- Less tech industry presence
- Higher job opportunities
- World-class cuisine
- Extensive public transport
- Vibrant cultural diversity
- Major tech hub
- Higher cost of living
- More crowded
- Less personal space
- Heavy traffic
- Faster pace of life
- 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.
Boise | San Francisco | |
---|---|---|
Most iconic local food item | Idaho Potatoes | Sourdough Bread |
Most popular meat dish | Steak | Seafood (Cioppino) |
Most popular street food item | Finger Steaks | Mission Burrito |
Most popular vegan food | Quinoa Bowls | Avocado Toast |
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
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.
Boise | San Francisco | What You'll Love |
---|---|---|
Chandlers Steakhouse | Harris’ Steakhouse | Both offer high-end dining and succulent steaks, upholding traditional American steakhouse vibes. |
Bardenay | Anchor Brewing Company | A pioneer in craft brewing and distilling, much like Bardenay's unique status in Boise. |
Goldy's Breakfast Bistro | Mama's on Washington Square | Both are beloved for their hearty, home-style breakfasts and charming atmosphere. |
Boise Fry Company | Gott’s Roadside | A modern approach to fast-casual dining specializing in burgers and fries with local flair. |
Fork | Zuni Café | Eateries celebrated for their commitment to farm-to-table dining and innovative, seasonal menus. |
Petite 4 | Frances | Both restaurants offer an intimate setting with a focus on meticulous, French-inspired cuisine. |
Barbacoa Grill | Arguello | They share a passion for fiery, authentic Southwestern and Mexican dishes in an upscale environment. |
The Basque Market | Piperade | Both celebrate the depth of Basque cuisine, offering an array of traditional dishes and tapas. |
Alavita | Flour + Water | Renowned for their handmade pasta and Italian dishes, both provide a modern twist on classic flavors. |
Madhuban Indian Cuisine | Dosa | Both 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.

Ready to start your move?
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.
Comparison | Boise | San Francisco |
---|---|---|
Typical Architecture Style | Craftsman and Ranch | Victorian and Modern |
Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Quiet neighborhoods, family-friendly | Proximity 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.
Boise, ID
San Francisco, CA
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Boise, ID
San Francisco, CA
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Boise, ID
San Francisco, CA
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Boise, ID
San Francisco, CA
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Comparison | Boise | San Francisco |
---|---|---|
Air Quality | Moderate | Good |
Natural Disasters | Wildfires, Flooding | Earthquakes, 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.
Ready to start your move?
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.
Comparison | Boise | San Francisco |
---|---|---|
Avg. Household Income | $70,217 | $121,826 |
Cost of Living Index | 97.2 | 164 |
State Income Tax | 6.5 | 13.3 max |
Avg. Property Tax | 0.75 | 0.6 |
Avg. Sales Tax | 6 | 8.5 |
Top 3 Industries | Technology, Agriculture, Manufacturing | Technology, Finance, Tourism |
Affluence | Moderate | High |
Poverty | Moderate | Low |
Homelessness | Low | High |
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.
Boise | San Francisco | |
---|---|---|
Political Make-up | Lean Conservative | Highly Liberal |
Local Politics | Mixed, with a tilt towards Republican governance | Strongly Democratic |
Religion | Christian majority, with significant faith-based organizations | Diverse 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.
Comparison | Boise | San Francisco |
---|---|---|
Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 20 | 34 |
Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
Can you get by without car? | Difficult | Yes |
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.



Additional Resources
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