Best Minneapolis to Oakland Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from Minneapolis to Oakland and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 1,941 mile move from Minnesota to California go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 26 Minneapolis to Oakland 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 $2,500 - $8,500 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Minneapolis compared to Oakland. 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 Minneapolis to Oakland Moving Companies
| Rank | Company Name | Rating  | Affordability Index | License | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | OCD Moving Services LLC | 9.66 | 9.47 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 2 | Metro Movers | 9.49 | 9.73 | Authorized For Property | Contact |
| 3 | General Expert Moving Service LLC | 9.26 | 8.89 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 4 | Exercise Equipment Installation: EEI | 9.18 | 8.26 | Active | Contact |
| 5 | Fairprice Movers | 8.87 | 9.12 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
(800) 787-5428Cost to Move from Minneapolis to Oakland
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 1,941 miles from Minneapolis, MN to Oakland, CA will cost on average $3,432 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Minneapolis to Oakland move is roughly $8,279. 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 | $2,303 | 300 ft³ | 7.68 |
| 1 Bedroom | $3,432 | 450 ft³ | 7.63 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $5,682 | 750 ft³ | 7.58 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $8,279 | 1100 ft³ | 7.53 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $11,962 | 1600 ft³ | 7.48 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $13,367 | 1800 ft³ | 7.43 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Oakland to Minneapolis guide.
Compare the 5 Best Minneapolis to Oakland 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) |
Metro Movers
434 Blake Rd N
Hopkins, MN, 55343
About Metro Movers
Metro Movers, a licensed and insured transport and logistics company in Minnesota, was founded by two childhood friends with a shared...
Services
- Residential Moving
- Business Moving
- Long Distance Residential Moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3742268 / 1503884 Authorized For Property Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 3 |
| Registered Drivers | 3 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 16,000 (2023) |
General Expert Moving Service LLC
3804 22nd Ave S
Minneapolis, MN, 55407
About General Expert Moving Service LLC
General Expert Moving Service LLC is a family-owned moving company based in Minnesota. It started with two brothers and a pickup...
Services
- Cheap moving
- Local moving
- Long-distance moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2846187 / 1285395 Authorized For HHG Carrier/Shipper |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 5 |
| Registered Drivers | 24 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 30,000 (2024) |
Exercise Equipment Installation: EEI
This listing has been claimed by Exercise Equipment Installation: EEI3019 Bryant Ave S # 203
Minneapolis, MN, 55408
About Exercise Equipment Installation: EEI
Exercise Equipment Installation (EEI) has been providing quality service since 1995, specializing in professional and reliable disassembly, assembly, and installation of...
Services
- Exercise Equipment Moving
- Exercise Equipment Disassembly
- Exercise Equipment Assembly
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3914686 / - Active CARRIER |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 1 |
| Registered Drivers | - |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | - |
Fairprice Movers
Berkeley, CA, 94720
About Fairprice Movers
Established in 2012, Fairprice Movers is a moving company headquartered in San Jose, California. The company offers a highly personalized moving...
Services
- Local Moving
- Long Distance Moving
- Commercial and Office Moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2192738 / 768242 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 5 |
| Registered Drivers | 3 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 89,000 (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.
Minneapolis vs. Oakland Neighborhood Comparison
When moving from Minneapolis, MN to Oakland, CA, it helps to compare what you know with what you're about to discover. This guide offers a comparison of popular neighborhoods in each city, helping you find a new community that reminds you of home. Below, you'll find a chart highlighting top neighborhoods in Minneapolis alongside their Oakland counterparts, offering a glimpse into similar vibes, amenities, and community feels.
| Minneapolis | Oakland | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Uptown | Rockridge | Trendy eateries, boutique shopping |
| North Loop | Temescal | Hip, vibrant nightlife |
| Lowry Hill | Piedmont Avenue | Historic charm, walkable streets |
| Linden Hills | Montclair | Quaint shopping, family-friendly |
| Northeast | Jingletown | Artsy vibe, unique galleries |
| Southwest | Grand Lake | Lush parks, weekend markets |
| Kenny | Redwood Heights | Quiet, residential, good schools |
| Whittier | Old Oakland | Diverse dining, historical architecture |
| Bryn Mawr | Claremont | Upscale, spacious homes |
| Powderhorn | Fruitvale | Community-oriented, cultural hub |
For those considering a move from Minneapolis's vibrant Uptown to Oakland, Rockridge offers a similarly eclectic mix of boutique shops and trendy eateries, such as Zachary's Chicago Pizza and the popular Rockridge Ice Cream & Gelato. If the artsy and diverse atmosphere of Northeast Minneapolis draws you in, you'll find a kindred spirit in Oakland's Jingletown, where local artistry thrives at spots like Jingletown Arts & Business Community. For those who appreciate the historic and walkable charm of Lowry Hill, Piedmont Avenue in Oakland mirrors this with landmarks like the Mountain View Cemetery, providing a picturesque setting alongside period architecture and cozy cafes. This detailed comparison underscores the unique qualities that make each neighborhood desirable, bridging the gap between the familiar and the new as you embark on this exciting relocation journey.
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Minneapolis to Oakland
Moving from one city to another can be a blend of excitement and apprehension. This guide aims to juxtapose the advantages and disadvantages of relocating from Minneapolis, MN to Oakland, CA, providing you with a balanced overview. By examining the pros and cons, you'll gain insights into how this move might affect your lifestyle, helping you to make an informed decision.
Minneapolis, MN- Colder Winters
- Less Cultural Diversity
- Fewer Green Initiatives
- Smaller Tech Scene
Oakland, CA- Milder Climate
- More Cultural Diversity
- Strong Environmentalism
- Larger Tech Industry
Oakland, CA- Higher Expenses
- Less Access to Water
- Smaller Arts Community
- Tougher Housing Market
Minneapolis, MN- Lower Cost of Living
- Abundant Lakes
- Rich Arts Scene
- More Affordable Housing
The move from Minneapolis to Oakland introduces you to a world brimming with cultural diversity and a vibrant tech industry. Oakland's climate is notably more forgiving, making it an ideal location for those who prefer milder winters. The city is alive with green initiatives and a strong sense of environmentalism, found in its community events and local policies. However, this move means adjusting to a higher cost of living and navigating a challenging housing market. Yet, locations like Lake Merritt and the buzzing streets of Temescal offer unique urban and natural sights. Oakland's food scene, featuring restaurants like Shakewell and Belotti, showcases the city's culinary diversity. Despite the differences in lakes and arts compared to Minneapolis, Oakland presents ample parks and diverse neighborhoods, each with its unique character, such as the historical charm of Jack London Square and the Redwoods' tranquility in Reinhardt Redwood Regional Park.
Minneapolis vs. Oakland Food Guide
This comparison of the local cuisine between Minneapolis & Oakland is essential for understanding the food scene in your new home. Food is a crucial part of local culture and experiencing life in a new area, and this guide aims to inform you about what culinary delights await.
| Minneapolis | Oakland | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Hotdish | Sourdough Bread |
| Most popular meat dish | Juicy Lucy | BBQ Brisket |
| Most popular street food item | Mini Donuts | Tacos |
| Most popular vegan food | Wild Rice Burger | Vegan Burritos |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness (out of 10) | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks (out of 10) | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene (out of 10) | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly (out of 10) | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
In Minneapolis, the Juicy Lucy—a cheese-stuffed burger patty—is a must-try for meat lovers, while in Oakland, the vibrant street food scene highlights tacos, with countless variations available throughout the city, especially in neighborhoods like Fruitvale. Oakland is also known for its vegan-friendly offerings, including innovative vegan burritos that can be found in various food trucks and restaurants like The Butcher's Son. Minneapolis offers a unique twist on vegan cuisine with the Wild Rice Burger, a nod to the state's indigenous food traditions. For those looking to dive deep into the local food cultures, Minneapolis's Spoon and Stable offers a cozy, locally sourced menu, while Oakland's Brown Sugar Kitchen is renowned for its soulful, modern approach to Southern cuisine.
Minneapolis vs. Oakland Restaurant Comparison
Food plays a significant role in making a place feel like home. If you're moving from Minneapolis, MN, to Oakland, CA, finding your new go-to dining spots is crucial. This restaurant comparison between Minneapolis and Oakland will help bridge the familiarity gap, enabling you to discover your next favorite eateries by paralleling them with those from your former hometown.
| Minneapolis | Oakland | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Spoon and Stable | Commis | Both offer high-end, avant-garde dining experiences |
| Brasa Premium Rotisserie | Brown Sugar Kitchen | Soulful and comforting American cuisine |
| Matt’s Bar | TrueBurger | Both are known for their iconic, mouthwatering burgers |
| Revival | Homeroom | A focus on American comfort food with a unique twist |
| Sea Salt Eatery | Swan's Market | Fresh seafood options in a casual setting |
| Young Joni | Pizzaiolo | Artisanal pizzas in a cosy, welcoming atmosphere |
| Alma | Camino | Both focus on local, seasonal ingredients in a refined atmosphere |
| Butcher & The Boar | Belcampo | Renowned for their meat-centric dishes and quality cuts |
| The Bachelor Farmer | Duende | A modern and creative take on traditional dishes |
| Hola Arepa | Cholita Linda | Both are best known for Latin American street food favorites |
Discovering a new favorite restaurant can be a thrilling part of moving to a new city. In Oakland, you'll find that Commis mirrors the high-end dining experience of Minneapolis's Spoon and Stable, but with its unique California twist on gastronomy. If your heart aches for the comforting embrace of soulful American cuisine, Oakland's Brown Sugar Kitchen will fill the void left by Brasa Premium Rotisserie, serving dishes that are as heartwarming as they are delicious. For burger aficionados, taking a bite of a TrueBurger burger delivers the same satisfaction and quality you'd expect from a visit to Matt’s Bar. These comparisons are just a starting point, designed to ease the transition, satisfying both your nostalgia for Minneapolis and your excitement for exploring Oakland's vibrant culinary scene.
Ready to start your move?
Minneapolis vs. Oakland Real Estate & Living Facts
Real estate is a crucial aspect when considering a relocation. Understanding how Minneapolis and Oakland compare will illuminate the differences in housing costs , living styles , and community vibe . This comparison aims to provide a clear perspective on what to expect from each city's real estate market.
| Comparison | Minneapolis | Oakland |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Prairie and Tudor | Victorian and Modern |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Lake views, Proximity to parks | Access to public transit, Bay views |
When diving deeper into the real estate nuances between Minneapolis and Oakland, a few key details stand out. For starters, Minneapolis’ housing market is significantly more affordable, with the median home price being notably lower than in Oakland. This affordability does not come at the cost of lifestyle, as Minneapolis offers impressive lake views and easy access to lush parks which commonly feature in real estate listings. On the other hand, Oakland presents a higher urban lifestyle score, boasting superior walkability and bikeability, which reflects the city's dense, vibrant nature. Architecture enthusiasts moving to Oakland will appreciate the blend of Victorian and modern designs that mark its neighborhoods. For those who prioritize public transit and bay views, Oakland's real estate listings consistently highlight these attributes, catering to a more urban-centric living experience.
Minneapolis vs. Oakland Weather Considerations
Understanding how the weather compares between your current city and your new home is crucial when relocating. This comparison between Minneapolis, MN, and Oakland, CA, focuses on various aspects of the climate to help you prepare for your move. Knowing these differences ensures you adjust smoothly to the new weather patterns and enjoy your new environment.
Minneapolis, MN
Oakland, CA
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Minneapolis, MN
Oakland, CA
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Minneapolis, MN
Oakland, CA
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Minneapolis, MN
Oakland, CA
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Minneapolis | Oakland |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Moderate | Good |
| Natural Disasters | Blizzards, Tornadoes | Earthquakes, Wildfires |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | 198 days | 261 days |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
When moving from Minneapolis to Oakland, you’ll say goodbye to harsh winters and welcome a milder, Mediterranean climate. A striking difference lies in the winter temperatures and snowfall; Oakland experiences mild winters with almost no snow, contrasting sharply with Minneapolis’s snowy and cold winters. This change alone can significantly impact your daily life, from your wardrobe to your outdoor activities. Additionally, Oakland enjoys more sunshine days a year, which can positively affect your mood and vitamin D levels. However, it’s also important to note that the risk of natural disasters shifts from blizzards and tornadoes to earthquakes and wildfires. Understanding these climatic changes will help in making your transition smoother and preparing you for a new lifestyle in Oakland.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Minneapolis to Oakland
When considering a move from one city to another, comparing financial aspects such as income, taxes, and the cost of living is crucial. Understanding these differences will prepare you financially for your new environment. This comparison focuses on Minneapolis, MN and Oakland, CA, highlighting the key economic factors that could impact your decision and budgeting.
| Comparison | Minneapolis | Oakland |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $69,397 | $82,236 |
| Cost of Living Index | 111 | 139.1 |
| State Income Tax | 9.85 | 13.3 |
| Avg. Property Tax | 1.25 | 0.79 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 7.78 | 9.25 |
| Top 3 Industries | Manufacturing, Health Services, Educational Services | Technology, Health Care, Retail |
| Affluence | Moderatly affluent | Highly affluent |
| Poverty | Noticeable | Moderate |
| Homelessness | Concerning | Severe |
While both Minneapolis and Oakland offer vibrant economies, moving to Oakland from Minneapolis typically means adjusting to a significantly higher cost of living, specifically a 151 index in Oakland compared to Minneapolis's 105. This includes higher expenses for housing, as reflected in the difference in average property taxes, though Oakland residents pay a bit less in this regard. State income tax is also notably higher in California. Affluence in Oakland is described as "highly affluent," indicating a strong economy driven by leading sectors such as technology and health care. However, it's also important to consider social issues such as homelessness, which is described as severe in Oakland, part of the broader challenges facing many California cities. Preparing for these economic and social realities will be crucial for a smooth transition.
Minneapolis vs. Oakland Political & Religious Comparison
In preparing for a move from Minneapolis, MN, to Oakland, CA, it's valuable to grasp a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents in both cities. This guide offers a concise comparison of the politics between Minneapolis & Oakland to help you understand the community you're moving into or leaving behind.
| Minneapolis | Oakland | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Liberal/Democratic | Very Liberal/Democratic |
| Local Politics | Progressive policies, strong emphasis on social issues | Highly progressive, significant activism and community organizing |
| Religion | Mix of Protestant, Catholic, and non-religious groups | Diverse, with a significant number of non-religious residents |
Both Minneapolis and Oakland are known for their liberal political landscapes, yet Oakland stands out for its high level of activism and community organizing, reflecting its citizens' commitment to progressive ideals. While Minneapolis has a mix of religious affiliations with a notable presence of Protestant and Catholic communities, Oakland showcases a more diverse religious scene with a larger proportion of non-religious individuals. Understanding these nuances can help you better integrate into the local culture and community activities of your new home.
Minneapolis vs. Oakland Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Moving from Minneapolis, MN to Oakland, CA brings a notable change in your daily commute and traffic experiences. This comparison between Minneapolis & Oakland is designed to help you better understand what to expect in terms of traffic and transportation options in your new city.
| Comparison | Minneapolis | Oakland |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 25 | 30 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | Possible, but challenging | Yes, more feasible |
In Minneapolis, although possible, getting by without a car can be challenging due to the sprawling nature of the city and its suburbs. The public transit system, which includes buses and light rail, is fairly robust, but doesn't cover all areas comprehensively. In contrast, Oakland offers a slightly more congested traffic situation, which is counterbalanced by a higher availability and convenience of public transit options, like BART and buses, making it more feasible to live without a personal vehicle. The average commute time in Oakland is slightly longer, suggesting that while you might spend more time in transit, the efficiency and coverage of public transportation can ease your daily travel.
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