Best Boston to Sunnyvale Movers + Moving Guide

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If you're moving from Boston to Sunnyvale and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 3,242 mile move from Massachusetts to California go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 54 Boston to Sunnyvale 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 Stairhopper Movers), how much the move costs (approximately $3,000 - $11,000 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Boston compared to Sunnyvale. 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 Boston to Sunnyvale Moving Companies

RankCompany NameRating QuestionAffordability IndexLicenseContact
1Stairhopper Movers9.669.62Authorized For HHGContact
2Centaur Moving9.609.79Authorized For HHGContact
3Intelligent labor & Moving9.519.55Authorized For Property, HHGContact
4D&L Movers9.349.36ActiveContact
5Careful Movers9.318.63Authorized For HHGContact
Phone (800) 787-5428

Cost to Move from Boston to Sunnyvale

Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 3,242 miles from Boston, MA to Sunnyvale, CA will cost on average $4,538 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Boston to Sunnyvale move is roughly $10,983. 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$3,040300 ft³10.13
1 Bedroom$4,538450 ft³10.08
2 Bedrooms$7,526750 ft³10.03
3 Bedrooms$10,9831100 ft³9.98
4 Bedrooms$15,8961600 ft³9.93
5+ Bedrooms$17,7931800 ft³9.88
*Please note: These Massachusetts to California moving prices are rough approximations based upon nationwide data as well as local and statewide data from Massachusetts & 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 MA to CA mover.
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Sunnyvale to Boston guide.

Compare the 5 Best Boston to Sunnyvale Movers

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

Stairhopper Movers Logo

Stairhopper Movers

Exceptional9.66/10
based on 9,261+ data points

20 Harvard St

Boston, MA, 2129

About Stairhopper Movers

Since 2001, Stairhopper Movers has operated as a Boston-based local moving company that performs local and long-distance residential and commercial moves....

Services

  • Local moves
  • Long distance moves
  • Commercial moves

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

1696867 / 623045

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans21
Registered Drivers22
Total Annual Miles Moved261,200 (2022)
View Full Review
1
Centaur Moving Logo

Centaur Moving

Exceptional
claimed company icon
9.60/10
based on 1,675+ data points

171 Windsor St

Cambridge, MA, 02139

About Centaur Moving

Centaur Moving, based in Cambridge, Massachusetts, is a fully licensed and insured moving company with services for local and nationwide moves....

Services

  • Local Moving
  • Long Distance Moving
  • Commercial Relocations

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3638077 / 1249051

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans2
Registered Drivers3
Total Annual Miles Moved20,000 (2022)
View Full Review
2
Intelligent labor & Moving Logo

Intelligent labor & Moving

Exceptional9.51/10
based on 1,979+ data points

18 Beck Rd

Arlington, MA, 2476

About Intelligent labor & Moving

Established in 2005, Intelligent Labor & Moving is a moving and storage company serving residential and corporate clients in the communities...

Services

  • Local moving services
  • Long-distance and interstate moving services
  • Cheap moving rates with two or three movers

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2065664 / 725481

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans8
Registered Drivers8
Total Annual Miles Moved43,583 (2023)
View Full Review
3
D&L Movers Logo

D&L Movers

Exceptional9.34/10
based on 1,789+ data points

1563 Bahama Way

Campbell, CA, 95008

About D&L Movers

Founded by Drew Sanchez and Leo Cervantes, D&L Movers is a local moving company that offers full-service relocations for homes and...

Services

  • Cheap moving
  • Local moving
  • Long-distance moving

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 7/23/2023)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2706648 / -

Active

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans3
Registered Drivers5
Total Annual Miles Moved20,000 (2017)
View Full Review
4
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
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.

Boston vs. Sunnyvale Neighborhood Comparison

Moving to a new city can be daunting, especially when you're not familiar with the local neighborhoods. To help you settle in, we've created a comparison of the local neighborhoods between Boston, MA & Sunnyvale, CA. Using Boston's neighborhoods as a baseline, we'll find the Sunnyvale areas that share the most similarities, making your transition as smooth as possible.

BostonSunnyvaleHow They're Similar
Back BayHeritage DistrictVibrant, historic charm
Beacon HillWashington ParkQuaint, upscale residential
South EndSnailDiverse, rich in culture
North EndOld OrchardCozy, community-focused
Fenway-KenmorePonderosa ParkLively, sports and recreation
Jamaica PlainLakewoodGreen spaces, family-friendly
South BostonBirdlandBustling, modern living
DorchesterCherry ChaseDiverse, community-centric
CharlestownRaynor ParkHistoric, peaceful residential
RoslindaleCumberlandSuburban feel, close-knit community

The Back Bay of Boston, known for its picturesque streets and historic architecture, finds its match in Sunnyvale's Heritage District, where the charm of older buildings is balanced with vibrant streetscapes. Similarly, if you appreciate the quaint and upscale residential vibe of Beacon Hill, you'll find a similar atmosphere in Washington Park, known for its serene environment and beautiful homes. For the lovers of green spaces and community focus of Jamaica Plain, Lakewood in Sunnyvale offers an excellent mix of family-friendly parks, like Lakewood Park, and community events. Lastly, South End's diversity and cultural richness can be experienced in Sunnyvale's Snail neighborhood, which boasts a range of dining options and cultural activities that mirror South End's lively arts scene and culinary diversity.

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Things to Do in Sunnyvale

  • Explore the Baylands Nature Preserve.
  • Attend a workshop at Sunnyvale Public Library.
  • Shop at Sunnyvale Town Center.
  • Enjoy Central Park activities.
  • Sample local brews at Faultline Brewing Company.
  • Catch a show at Sunnyvale Theatre.

Ready to start your move?

Pros and Cons of Moving from Boston to Sunnyvale

Deciding to move from Boston, MA to Sunnyvale, CA, is a significant undertaking that requires a good understanding of both the pros and cons. This comparison aims to provide an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of this relocation, helping you to weigh your options carefully.

CONs
PROs
Boston, MA iconBoston, MA
  • High living costs
  • Harsh winters
  • Limited tech opportunities
  • Smaller city vibe
Sunnyvale, CA iconSunnyvale, CA
  • Sunny weather
  • Milder climate
  • Tech job hub
  • More diversity
Sunnyvale, CA iconSunnyvale, CA
  • Less historic
  • Less seasonal variation
  • Fewer sports teams
  • Smaller academic focus
Boston, MA iconBoston, MA
  • Rich history
  • Diverse seasons
  • Strong sports culture
  • Academic hub

Moving to Sunnyvale offers significant lifestyle changes, especially for tech enthusiasts or those seeking warmer climates. While you might miss the rich historical backdrop and the vibrant seasons of Boston, cities like Sunnyvale provide unique opportunities and amenities. Enjoy year-round outdoor activities in Sunnyvale's welcoming weather, taking advantage of beautiful parks like Las Palmas Park. Exciting tech careers await in Silicon Valley's heart, with companies like Google and Apple nearby. However, it's important to consider living expenses, as California's cost of living can be steep compared to Boston. While you might miss Boston's Fenway Park, Sunnyvale offers a variety of local attractions and a strong sense of community that may soon feel like home.

Boston vs. Sunnyvale Food Guide

When relocating, immersing in the local food scene unveils a rich aspect of what it’s like to live there. Through this comparison, we highlight how the cuisine differs and what you can anticipate upon your arrival. Let's explore the comparison of the local cuisine between Boston & Sunnyvale to better understand the culinary delights awaiting you.

BostonSunnyvale
Most iconic local food itemNew England Clam ChowderArtisanal Sourdough
Most popular meat dishBoston Baked Beans (with pork)Korean BBQ
Most popular street food itemLobster RollTacos
Most popular vegan foodTofu Quinoa SaladAvocado Toast
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
  • Union Oyster House
  • Legal Sea Foods
  • Neptune Oyster
  • DishDash
  • Falafel STOP
  • Lazy Dog Restaurant & Bar
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
Abundance of Food Trucks🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
Foodie Scene🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

In Sunnyvale, the local cuisine boasts a vibrant mix of international flavors, reflecting the diverse community. In the heart of the city, places like DishDash offer Middle Eastern delights that are a testament to the area's rich cultural tapestry. Venturing into the lively streets, you'll encounter an array of food trucks, with tacos standing out as a popular choice, ensuring that there's always something new and exciting to try. The city's high score in vegan-friendliness is evident in trendy spots serving health-conscious dishes like avocado toast, which can be found in cafes and brunch places around the neighborhood. With a keen emphasis on healthy living, Sunnyvale's dining scene is a paradise for foodies and health enthusiasts alike.

Boston vs. Sunnyvale Restaurant Comparison

When moving from Boston, MA, to Sunnyvale, CA, finding your new go-to spots for dining is crucial for feeling at home. This comparison of top Boston restaurants to their Sunnyvale counterparts aims to ease your transition by pinpointing where you can enjoy familiar tastes and dining experiences.

BostonSunnyvaleWhat You'll Love
OleanaDishDashMiddle Eastern cuisine with a similar dedication to flavor and atmosphere.
Neptune OysterSeafood StationOffers fresh seafood options reminiscent of Neptune's quality and variety.
Mike's PastrySatura CakesAlthough more known for cakes, the pastry selection brings a taste of Boston's Italian sweets.
Union Oyster HouseThe Fish MarketHistoric vibes with a focus on seafood that parallels Union Oyster House's charm.
No. 9 ParkLe PapillonHigh-end dining with European influences, echoing No. 9 Park's refined palette.
ToroTaurinus Brazilian SteakhouseA different cuisine but similar in providing a high-quality, communal dining experience.
Flour Bakery + CafeParis BaguetteOffers a comparable commitment to quality in baked goods and a cafe culture.
GiuliaIl FornaioAuthentic Italian cooking that captures the essence of Giulia's celebrated dishes.
Santarpio's PizzaAFKxp Tech+GamesAn unusual twist but offers tasty pizzas in a laid-back environment, capturing Santarpio's casual feel.
Craigie on MainDish n DashThough more casual, it delivers on the bold flavors Craigie on Main is known for.

Experiencing the rich and diverse culinary scene of a new city is one of the pleasures of moving. For example, if you've cherished the unique Middle Eastern flavors at Oleana, you'll find a similar passion for regional dishes at DishDash. While the cuisine at Taurinus Brazilian Steakhouse in Sunnyvale may diverge from Toro's Spanish tapas in Boston, the emphasis on quality ingredients and the vibrant dining atmosphere finds common ground. Similarly, transitioning from the beloved Boston institution of Mike's Pastry to Sunnyvale's Satura Cakes, you'll discover a delightful array of sweets that will help soothe any homesickness. These comparisons not only highlight the diversity and richness of Sunnyvale's dining scene but also ensure that you'll find a piece of your Boston favorites in your new Californian home.

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Ready to start your move?

Boston vs. Sunnyvale Real Estate & Living Facts

Real estate is a crucial aspect when planning a move. Understanding how the housing markets of Boston, MA and Sunnyvale, CA compare will arm you with necessary knowledge for a successful transition. This comparison delves into cost, architecture, and lifestyle aspects that define each city's unique appeal.

ComparisonBostonSunnyvale
Typical Architecture StyleVictorian, FederalMid-century Modern, Ranch
Walkability 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listingHardwood floors, Historical detailsOpen floor plans, Smart home features

When comparing the real estate landscapes of Boston and Sunnyvale, several key differences emerge. Boston's historical charm is evident in its Victorian and Federal architecture, appealing to those who value character and history in their homes. Meanwhile, Sunnyvale, located in the heart of Silicon Valley, offers a modern take on living, with mid-century modern and ranch-style homes equipped with the latest smart home technologies. While Sunnyvale boasts better bikeability, Boston excels in urban lifestyle and walkability, making each city suited to different preferences and priorities. This divergence underscores the importance of considering personal lifestyle choices when making a move. Whether you're drawn to the rich history and vibrant city life of Boston or the modern, tech-driven environment of Sunnyvale, both cities offer unique housing opportunities that cater to various tastes and needs.

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Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Sunnyvale, CA

1. Sunnyvale West: With numerous walking paths and its proximity to Las Palmas Park, a dog-friendly park, it's a neighborhood where your pets can enjoy plenty of outdoor activities.

2. Cherryhill: Home to the Serra Park, which offers a spacious off-leash area for dogs, making it a haven for pet owners who love to give their pets freedom to roam and play.

3. Snail: Known for its community vibe and access to pet-friendly amenities, including several pet stores and the close-by Raynor Park, where pets can enjoy walks on leashes amidst green surroundings.

Boston vs. Sunnyvale Weather Considerations

Moving from one city to another requires understanding how the weather will impact your daily life. This comparison between Boston, MA, and Sunnyvale, CA, emphasizes weather differences to prepare you for your new climate.

Summer icon
82°F / 65°F

Boston, MA

79°F / 58°F

Sunnyvale, CA

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
36°F / 22°F

Boston, MA

58°F / 39°F

Sunnyvale, CA

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
43.8

Boston, MA

15.9

Sunnyvale, CA

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
48.0

Boston, MA

0

Sunnyvale, CA

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

ComparisonBostonSunnyvale
Air QualityModerateGood
Natural DisastersBlizzards, Nor'eastersEarthquakes
Days of Sunshine per Year☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. UV Index🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Avg. Annual Humidity💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦

When you move from Boston to Sunnyvale, you'll notice significant differences in weather, particularly in the winter months. Sunnyvale's mild winters contrast sharply with Boston's cold, snowy season. Additionally, Sunnyvale boasts more days of sunshine and less annual rainfall, promoting outdoor activities year-round. However, it's also important to adapt to the higher UV index and different natural disaster risks, such as earthquakes, not prevalent in Boston. Understanding these differences will help you prepare better for your move and adjust to your new environment seamlessly.

Ready to start your move?

Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Boston to Sunnyvale

When planning your move from Boston, MA to Sunnyvale, CA, it’s crucial to grasp how your finances will be impacted. Understanding the differences in cost of living , taxation , and income between these two dynamic cities will help you prepare for this significant change. This comparison aims to provide you with a clear picture of what to expect financially when relocating from Boston to Sunnyvale .

ComparisonBostonSunnyvale
Avg. Household Income$79,283$156,059
Cost of Living Index132.5136.4
State Income Tax5%9.3%
Avg. Property Tax1.2%0.8%
Avg. Sales Tax6.25%9%
Top 3 IndustriesEducation, Healthcare, FinanceTechnology, Manufacturing, Retail
AffluenceWell-offAffluent
PovertyModerateLow
HomelessnessHighLow

While Boston offers a solid foundation with an average household income of $85,000 and a vibrant economy led by education and healthcare, Sunnyvale stands out due to its significantly higher household income, mainly fueled by the technology sector. Although Sunnyvale’s cost of living index is substantially higher, the affluence in the city is more pronounced, and homelessness is notably lower compared to Boston. These factors contribute to Sunnyvale’s appeal, despite the steeper sales and income taxes, showcasing the city’s thriving economy and its impact on residents’ quality of life.

Boston vs. Sunnyvale Political & Religious Comparison

This comparison aims to provide a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents you're about to join, shifting from Boston, MA to Sunnyvale, CA . It's tailored to give you insights into how communities in both cities align politically and religiously, assisting you in preparing for the cultural ambience you'll be entering.

BostonSunnyvale
Political Make-upLiberal/DemocraticLiberal/Democratic
Local PoliticsStrong Mayoral RepresentationCouncil-Manager System
ReligionLargely Catholic with significant Protestant and Jewish communitiesDiverse; large Asian (Hindu, Buddhist) communities and Christian communities

When moving from Boston to Sunnyvale, you'll find similarities in political orientation, with both cities leaning Liberal/Democratic. However, the governance approaches differ; Boston operates under a strong mayoral representation, while Sunnyvale employs a council-manager system, suggesting a more distributed form of local government. Religious diversity is higher in Sunnyvale, reflecting its significant Asian population alongside its Christian communities. This variety influences local culture, traditions, and community events, enriching your experience in your new home.

Boston vs. Sunnyvale Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

Moving across the country can significantly change your daily commute. This comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Boston & Sunnyvale is designed to help you better understand what to expect in terms of getting around in these two cities, affecting your choice of residence and lifestyle.

ComparisonBostonSunnyvale
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)3025
Traffic Congestion 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦
Availability of Public Transit 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇
Can you get by without car?YesChallenging

In Boston, you can comfortably rely on public transport for your daily commutes, thanks to its extensive MBTA system, which includes subways, buses, and commuter rails. This makes getting around the city possible without a car. On the other hand, Sunnyvale, nestled in Silicon Valley, presents less traffic congestion but with a public transit availability that's relatively less robust compared to Boston. This can make living without a personal vehicle more challenging. If moving to Sunnyvale from Boston, you might find the shift requires adapting to more time in a car, despite the generally shorter average commute times.

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