Best Minneapolis to San Francisco Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from Minneapolis to San Francisco and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 1,947 mile move from Minnesota to California go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 28 Minneapolis to San Francisco moving companies and more than 15,000 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 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 Minneapolis 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 | Metro Movers | 9.49 | 9.73 | Authorized For Property | Contact |
| 3 | Bay - L.A. Express Moving | 9.32 | 9.49 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 4 | General Expert Moving Service LLC | 9.27 | 8.89 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 5 | Exercise Equipment Installation: EEI | 9.19 | 8.26 | Active | Contact |
(800) 787-5428Cost to Move from Minneapolis to San Francisco
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 1,947 miles from Minneapolis, MN to San Francisco, CA will cost on average $3,437 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Minneapolis to San Francisco move is roughly $8,291. 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 | $2,306 | 300 ft³ | 7.69 |
| 1 Bedroom | $3,437 | 450 ft³ | 7.64 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $5,691 | 750 ft³ | 7.59 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $8,291 | 1100 ft³ | 7.54 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $11,980 | 1600 ft³ | 7.49 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $13,388 | 1800 ft³ | 7.44 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from San Francisco to Minneapolis guide.
Compare the 5 Best Minneapolis 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) |
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) |
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) |
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 | - |
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. San Francisco Neighborhood Comparison
When planning a move from Minneapolis, MN to San Francisco, CA , it's useful to compare neighborhoods to help you find your new home. By understanding the similarities between local neighborhoods , you can better visualize your life in an unfamiliar city. This guide matches top Minneapolis neighborhoods with their San Francisco counterparts to ease your transition.
| Minneapolis | San Francisco | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Linden Hills | Presidio Heights | Family-friendly, upscale |
| Uptown | The Mission | Vibrant nightlife, artsy |
| Northeast | SoMa | Industrial chic, arts & breweries |
| Edina | Marina District | Upscale, shopping & dining |
| North Loop | Dogpatch | Trendy, adaptive reuse buildings |
| Nicollet Island | Treasure Island | Historic, unique views |
| Southwest | Noe Valley | Quiet, family-oriented |
| Kenwood | Pacific Heights | Exclusive, grand homes |
| Lowry Hill | Russian Hill | Scenic views, historic charm |
| Powderhorn | Mission Dolores | Culturally rich, community-focused |
For those charmed by Linden Hills' quaint and upscale atmosphere, Presidio Heights in San Francisco offers a similarly serene environment with lush landscapes like the nearby Presidio park. The bustling arts scene and vibrant nightlife of Uptown Minneapolis find their match in The Mission's renowned cultural hotspots and eclectic bars and restaurants. Conversely, the quieter, family-oriented vibes of Southwest Minneapolis align well with Noe Valley's peaceful streets and close-knit community feel. For lovers of historic architecture and scenic views, the transition from Minneapolis's Lowry Hill to San Francisco's Russian Hill will be seamless, promising an array of picturesque sights and storied buildings that merge urban living with a touch of nature's beauty.
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Minneapolis to San Francisco
Moving from Minneapolis, MN to San Francisco, CA involves weighing various factors to make an informed decision. This comparison aims to give an honest reflection of the good and bad attributes of this relocation, helping you consider both the potential drawbacks and advantages carefully.
Minneapolis, MN- Harsh winters
- Less cultural diversity
- More affordable
- Smaller tech hub
- Lesser food variety
San Francisco, CA- Mild climate
- Greater cultural diversity
- Higher cost of living
- Larger tech industry
- World-class cuisine
San Francisco, CA- Expensive housing
- Denser population
- Less open space
- Fast-paced lifestyle
- Challenging traffic
Minneapolis, MN- Affordable living
- Close-knit communities
- Abundant green spaces
- Rich local culture
- Bike-friendly city
Moving from Minneapolis to San Francisco introduces you to a vibrant cultural tapestry and a dynamic food scene that includes destinations like Ferry Building Marketplace and Tartine Bakery. While Minneapolis boasts abundant green spaces such as the Chain of Lakes and Minnehaha Park, San Francisco counters with iconic sights like Golden Gate Park and the Presidio, although the latter can be more crowded. The transition from Minneapolis’s bike-friendly roads to San Francisco’s challenging traffic and dense population may require adjustments. However, the opportunities in tech and the arts, along with the mild climate and stunning bay views, tend to make the high cost of living seem worthwhile for many.
Minneapolis vs. San Francisco Food Guide
Food is a fundamental aspect of local culture and the living experience in any area. To help you better understand the culinary scene you are moving into, this is a comparison of the local cuisine between Minneapolis & San Francisco . Get ready to embark on a gastronomic journey as you transition from the comforting Midwest flavors of Minneapolis to the diverse, international palate of San Francisco.
| Minneapolis | San Francisco | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Juicy Lucy | Sourdough Bread |
| Most popular meat dish | Wild Rice Soup | Cioppino |
| Most popular street food item | Mini Donuts | Mission Burrito |
| Most popular vegan food | Walnut Burger | Tempeh Tacos |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
While Minneapolis offers a unique blend of traditional Midwest flavors with a modern twist, San Francisco's food scene is a melting pot of international cuisines influenced by its diverse population. In Minneapolis, places like Matt's Bar give you a taste of the iconic Juicy Lucy, a burger with cheese inside the meat patty instead of on top. Meanwhile, in San Francisco, neighborhoods such as the Mission District are famous for their Mission Burrito, a must-try street food item. Furthermore, San Francisco's health and vegan-friendly options are vast, with restaurants like Tartine Bakery offering an array of sourdough breads and vegan pastries that showcase the city's commitment to dietary diversity and health consciousness.
Minneapolis vs. San Francisco Restaurant Comparison
When relocating from Minneapolis, MN to San Francisco, CA, finding new favorite eateries is a key part of making your new city feel like home. This restaurant comparison between Minneapolis and San Francisco is designed to help you discover places that resonate with your tastes and preferences, whether you're seeking high-end dining experiences or more casual, foodie-approved spots.
| Minneapolis | San Francisco | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Spoon and Stable | Quince | Both known for their innovative and seasonal French-inspired American cuisine |
| Brasa Rotisserie | Brenda's French Soul Food | For a comfort food experience with a unique twist |
| Sea Salt Eatery | Hog Island Oyster Co. | Both offer fresh, high-quality seafood in a casual setting |
| Butcher & The Boar | 4505 Burgers & BBQ | Both places excel in American barbecue and smoked meats |
| Manny's Steakhouse | Harris' | Both are iconic for their exceptional steaks and classic dining experience |
| Bar La Grassa | Cotogna | Both offer upscale Italian cuisine in a vibrant, welcoming atmosphere |
| Hola Arepa | La Taqueria | Though focusing on different cuisines, both places are beloved for their authentic, flavorful Latin American dishes |
| Matt's Bar | Roam Artisan Burgers | Both are go-to spots for a casual yet delicious burger experience |
| Tilia | Zuni Café | Both restaurants specialize in American cuisine with a focus on fresh, locally-sourced ingredients |
| The Bachelor Farmer | Foreign Cinema | Both offer a unique dining atmosphere, combining great food with arts and culture |
For those who appreciate the artistry of French-inspired American cuisine, the transition from Spoon and Stable in Minneapolis to Quince in San Francisco will be seamless, thanks to both restaurants' commitment to seasonal offerings and innovative dishes. Lovers of comfort food with a twist will enjoy the soulful flavors at Brenda's French Soul Food, mirroring the homey yet creative dishes found at Brasa Rotisserie. And for those who favor the simplicity and quality of excellent seafood, transitioning from Sea Salt Eatery to the waterside charm and fresh offerings of Hog Island Oyster Co. will feel like a natural step. This comparison not only highlights similarities but celebrates the unique culinary experiences that make each city's food scene distinctive and vibrant.
Ready to start your move?
Minneapolis vs. San Francisco Real Estate & Living Facts
Real estate is crucial in determining the comfort and lifestyle awaiting you in a new city. This comparison aims to illuminate how housing in Minneapolis and housing in San Francisco stack up against each other in terms of cost, architecture, walkability, and urban lifestyle. Understanding these differences will guide you in making an informed decision about your move.
| Comparison | Minneapolis | San Francisco |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Prairie, Modern | Victorian, Edwardian |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Spacious yards, family-friendly | Views, Tech-friendly |
While Minneapolis offers a more affordable housing market with a median home price significantly lower than San Francisco's, the lifestyle and urban features differ substantially. San Francisco's higher walkability and bikeability scores reflect its compact, urban layout, which supports a more active, outdoor lifestyle. In contrast, Minneapolis, with its spacious yards and family-friendly amenities, caters well to families looking for a balance between urban convenience and suburban comfort. Architecture lovers moving from Minneapolis will find San Francisco's Victorian and Edwardian styles a delightful change from the Prairie and Modern styles they're accustomed to.
Minneapolis vs. San Francisco Weather Considerations
Moving from one place to another is a big decision, and understanding how the weather conditions in Minneapolis and San Francisco compare can help you prepare for what to expect. Whether you're used to icy winters or mild summers, this comparison will highlight the key differences and similarities in climate between these two cities.
Minneapolis, MN
San Francisco, CA
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Minneapolis, MN
San Francisco, CA
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Minneapolis, MN
San Francisco, CA
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Minneapolis, MN
San Francisco, CA
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Minneapolis | San Francisco |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Good | Moderate |
| Natural Disasters | Blizzards, Tornadoes | Earthquakes |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
While Minneapolis experiences a wider range of temperatures from icy winters to warm summers, San Francisco offers a more stable climate with mild temperatures year-round. The significant difference in annual sunshine days can also impact your everyday life, as San Francisco enjoys more sunny days. Another notable distinction is the types of natural disasters prevalent in each area, with Minneapolis being known for its blizzards and tornadoes, while San Francisco faces the risk of earthquakes. Understanding these differences can help you plan appropriately for seasonal activities, wardrobe changes, and safety measures when making the move.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Minneapolis to San Francisco
When planning a move from Minneapolis to San Francisco, it's crucial to grasp how the cost of living and financial landscape will shift. This comparison will illuminate the differences between the two cities, centering on key monetary aspects. The purpose of the chart is to compare money and finance between Minneapolis and San Francisco, aiding in your relocation decision.
| Comparison | Minneapolis | San Francisco |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $69,397 | $121,826 |
| Cost of Living Index | 111 | 164 |
| State Income Tax | 5.35 - 9.85 | 1 - 13.3 |
| Avg. Property Tax | 1.25 | 0.67 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 8.025 | 8.625 |
| Top 3 Industries | Healthcare, Manufacturing, Education | Technology, Finance, Tourism |
| Affluence | Moderate | High |
| Poverty | Lower | Lower |
| Homelessness | Noticeable | Significant |
Moving from Minneapolis to San Francisco, you'll notice significant financial changes beyond just the average household income leap. While San Francisco boasts higher earnings, it also comes with a dramatically higher cost of living—more than double that of Minneapolis. This is crucial when planning your budget, as expenses like housing, food, and transportation will consume a larger portion of your income, even with the higher earnings in San Francisco. State and sales taxes are also impactful differences, with San Francisco's sliding scale income tax reaching up to 13.3% for high earners. Meanwhile, property tax rates are inversely lower in San Francisco compared to Minneapolis. Understanding these differences is essential for a smooth financial transition to your new home.
Minneapolis vs. San Francisco Political & Religious Comparison
When planning your move from Minneapolis to San Francisco, understanding the landscape of both cities can be incredibly insightful. This guide provides a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents between Minneapolis & San Francisco, offering a glimpse into the communities you'll be transitioning between.
| Minneapolis | San Francisco | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Liberal, Democratic | Liberal, Democratic |
| Local Politics | Progressive policies, focus on inclusion | Highly progressive, with active engagement in environmental and social issues |
| Religion | Christianity predominant, with diverse religious communities | Pluralistic, with a significant number of unaffiliated individuals |
Moving from Minneapolis, you'll find a familiar liberal and Democratic political makeup in San Francisco, with both cities prioritizing progressive policies and inclusion. However, San Francisco is perhaps more vocal and active regarding environmental and social issues, reflecting the city's long history with progressive activism. Religion in Minneapolis leans towards Christianity with a mix of other religious communities. In contrast, San Francisco displays a more pluralistic religious landscape, with a notable portion of the population identifying as unaffiliated. This encapsulates a broad spectrum of spiritual beliefs and practices, indicating a more secular or diverse religious approach in San Francisco compared to Minneapolis.
Minneapolis vs. San Francisco Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Moving from Minneapolis, MN, to San Francisco, CA, requires adjusting to a new daily commute and understanding the differences in traffic and transportation options. This comparison aims to shed light on what you can expect navigating both cities.
| Comparison | Minneapolis | San Francisco |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 24 | 34 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | Possible, but challenging | Yes, more feasible |
In comparing the daily commute and transportation options between Minneapolis and San Francisco, several key differences emerge. San Francisco boasts a more robust public transportation network, evident in its higher availability score. This makes living without a car more feasible in San Francisco compared to Minneapolis, where it’s possible but might present more challenges. The average commute time in San Francisco is also notably longer, reflecting its higher traffic congestion levels. This information could be crucial in planning your daily commute and deciding whether to rely on public transport or a personal vehicle in your new city.
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