Best New York City to Oakland Movers + Moving Guide
Want help with the heavy lifting?
If you're moving from New York City to Oakland and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 3,013 mile move from New York to California go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 58 New York City 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 JP Urban Moving), how much the move costs (approximately $3,000 - $10,500 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in New York City 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 New York City to Oakland Moving Companies
Rank | Company Name | Rating | Affordability Index | License | Contact |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
1 | JP Urban Moving | 9.85 | 9.78 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
2 | Metropolis Moving | 9.72 | 9.62 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
3 | Flex Moving and Storage | 9.68 | 9.74 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
4 | OCD Moving Services LLC | 9.66 | 9.47 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
5 | Fairprice Movers | 8.87 | 9.12 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
Cost to Move from New York City to Oakland
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 3,013 miles from New York City, NY to Oakland, CA will cost on average $4,343 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom New York City to Oakland move is roughly $10,507. 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 | $2,911 | 300 ft³ | 9.70 |
1 Bedroom | $4,343 | 450 ft³ | 9.65 |
2 Bedrooms | $7,202 | 750 ft³ | 9.60 |
3 Bedrooms | $10,507 | 1100 ft³ | 9.55 |
4 Bedrooms | $15,203 | 1600 ft³ | 9.50 |
5+ Bedrooms | $17,014 | 1800 ft³ | 9.45 |


Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Oakland to New York City guide.
Compare the 5 Best New York City to Oakland Movers
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)

JP Urban Moving
266 St Marks Ave 3rd fl
Brooklyn, NY, 11238
About JP Urban Moving
JP Urban Moving is a small family-owned business in Brooklyn with over 15 years of experience. Its goal is always to...
Services
- Local NYC Moving
- Long Distance Moving
- Office Moving, Business Moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2096754 / 882954 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
Registered Trucks/Vans | 8 |
Registered Drivers | 8 |
Total Annual Miles Moved | 120,000 (2022) |

Metropolis Moving
476 Jefferson St
Brooklyn, NY, 11237
About Metropolis Moving
Metropolis Moving is a top-rated, licensed, and insured Brooklyn mover serving the greater Tri-State area, including all of Long Island and...
Services
- Local moving services
- Long-distance moving services
- Commercial moving services
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 4277979 / 1662478 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
Registered Trucks/Vans | 2 |
Registered Drivers | 4 |
Total Annual Miles Moved | 1 (2023) |

Flex Moving and Storage
276 Greenpoint Ave 287, Suite
Brooklyn, NY, 11222
About Flex Moving and Storage
With its domicile in Astoria, New York, Flex Moving and Storage carries a decade long European establishment. The company's range of...
Services
- Local moves
- Commercial moves
- Long distance moves
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3610638 / 1229716 Authorized For Property, HHG Carrier |
Registered Trucks/Vans | 2 |
Registered Drivers | 2 |
Total Annual Miles Moved | 25,000 (2022) |

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) |

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.
New York City vs. Oakland Neighborhood Comparison
Moving from one city to another can be a daunting task, especially when you're not familiar with your new home. To make the transition smoother, this guide offers a comparison of the local neighborhoods between New York City, NY & Oakland, CA . We've paired up popular neighborhoods from each city to help you find a new locale that feels like home.
New York City | Oakland | How They're Similar |
---|---|---|
Williamsburg | Temescal | Vibrant, artsy community |
Upper East Side | Rockridge | Upscale, with lush streets |
Greenwich Village | Piedmont Avenue | Bohemian and close-knit |
SoHo | Uptown | Trendy, with a rich arts scene |
Brooklyn Heights | Montclair | Serene, with stunning views |
DUMBO | Jack London Square | Waterfront, creative vibe |
Midtown | Downtown Oakland | Bustling business district |
Harlem | West Oakland | Diverse, historical roots |
Chelsea | Emeryville | Innovative and modern |
Financial District | Lake Merritt | Scenic, with urban parks |
For those eyeing the vibrant, artistic communities akin to Williamsburg, Temescal in Oakland offers a rich tapestry of art, food, and culture. This neighborhood is home to local favorites like Pizzaiolo and the Temescal Farmers Market, encapsulating that sought-after eclectic vibe. Similarly, if the historic charm and upscale living of the Upper East Side appeal to you, Rockridge will not disappoint, with its lush, tree-lined streets and wealth of gourmet dining options such as Wood Tavern. For those drawn to the bustling business and nightlife scene of Midtown Manhattan, Downtown Oakland offers a dynamic urban center surrounded by theaters, galleries, and landmarks like the iconic Fox Theater. Each of these Oakland neighborhoods provides a distinct flavor and lifestyle, ensuring that erstwhile New Yorkers can find a new place to call home that resonates with their personal tastes and interests.
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from New York City to Oakland
Moving from New York City, NY to Oakland, CA, presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities. This comparison seeks to provide an honest reflection of the good and bad attributes of this significant life change, aiming to help you make an informed decision.
- Higher living costs
- Crowded streets
- Harsh winters
- Less green spaces
- 24/7 noise
- Lower living costs
- More space
- Milder weather
- More parks
- Quieter neighborhoods
- Less nightlife
- Smaller cultural spectrum
- Fewer food options
- More car dependency
- Fewer landmarks
- Vibrant nightlife
- Diverse culture
- Global cuisine
- Extensive public transit
- Iconic sights
While the move from New York City, NY to Oakland, CA might mean saying goodbye to the globally renowned cuisine found in the likes of Eater NY's listed restaurants and the iconic sights such as Times Square, it welcomes you to a quieter, spacious environment with a lower cost of living. In Oakland, you'll find beautiful parks like the Joaquin Miller Park, offering vast green spaces for outdoor activities, and a growing gastronomy scene with establishments like Ordinaire Wine Bar & Shop, providing unique local flavors. The shift to a more car-dependent lifestyle in Oakland might be challenging for some, but the city's burgeoning culture and community initiatives make it an attractive place for those seeking a new beginning.
New York City vs. Oakland Food Guide
When you're moving, the flavors of your destination matter just as much as the scenery. That's why we're bringing you a comparison of the local cuisine between New York City & Oakland . This way, you can savor the tastes that will soon become a part of your everyday life, helping you feel right at home.
New York City | Oakland | |
---|---|---|
Most iconic local food item | Pizza | Oakland Sourdough |
Most popular meat dish | Pastrami Sandwich | Korean BBQ |
Most popular street food item | Hot Dog | Tacos |
Most popular vegan food | Avocado Toast | Vegan Soul Food |
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
Moving from the bustling streets of New York City to the vibrant neighborhoods of Oakland introduces you to a unique culinary landscape. In Oakland, you might start your morning with a loaf of freshly baked sourdough from a local bakery in the Temescal neighborhood. For lunch, finding vegan options is a breeze, with spots like Vegan Soul Food in the Lake Merritt area offering a comforting and delicious meal. Food trucks, particularly those serving tacos, are ubiquitous, reflecting Oakland's rich cultural diversity and offering a quick, tasty bite at any time of the day. The city's health-conscious vibe is palpable, with plenty of restaurants prioritizing locally sourced and organic ingredients, making Oakland an exciting new home for food lovers.
New York City vs. Oakland Restaurant Comparison
Discovering your next culinary haven is a vital part of making a new city feel like home. This restaurant comparison between New York City and Oakland aims to guide you in finding your new go-to spots, mirroring the flavors and ambiance you cherished back in the Big Apple. Whether you crave high-end dining, casual bites, or unique foodie experiences, this list will navigate your gastronomic journey in your new West Coast abode.
New York City | Oakland | What You'll Love |
---|---|---|
Le Bernardin | Commis | French-inspired cuisine with an emphasis on precision and artistry |
Joe's Pizza | Arizmendi Bakery & Pizzeria | Community-owned establishment known for its slices and commitment to quality |
Katz's Delicatessen | Saul's Restaurant & Delicatessen | Traditional Jewish deli fare with a California twist |
Per Se | Camino | Seasonally driven tasting menus that evoke Per Se’s meticulous approach |
Shake Shack | TrueBurger | Handcrafted burgers and shakes with a focus on quality ingredients |
Carbone | Belotti Ristorante E Bottega | Authentic Italian dishes that resonate with Carbone's classic charm |
Momofuku Noodle Bar | Ramen Shop | Creative ramen bowls that capture the innovation of Momofuku |
The Halal Guys | Reem's | Middle Eastern cuisine with a commitment to community and authenticity |
Dinosaur Bar-B-Que | Everett & Jones Barbeque | A family-run spot offering smoky flavors and homestyle sides |
Di Fara Pizza | Boot & Shoe Service | Artisanal pizzas that pay homage to Di Fara's craftsmanship |
Embarking on a culinary exploration of Oakland might lead you to spots like Commis, echoing the exquisite French-inspired cuisine reminiscent of the celebrated Le Bernardin in New York City. Likewise, pizza aficionados who have relished the iconic slices at Joe's Pizza will find solace in the authentic offerings of Arizmendi Bakery & Pizzeria. The sense of home extends to beloved comfort foods, where TrueBurger stands as a beacon for premium burgers and shakes, akin to what Shake Shack has symbolized for many New Yorkers. These restaurants in Oakland not only promise to satisfy your cravings but also offer an opportunity to explore local flavors and foster community connections, making your transition truly satisfying.

Ready to start your move?
New York City vs. Oakland Real Estate & Living Facts
When planning a move, understanding the real estate landscape is crucial. This comparison will illuminate the differences in housing aspects between New York City and Oakland , ensuring you make an informed decision. From costs to urban lifestyle, see how these cities stack up.
Comparison | New York City | Oakland |
---|---|---|
Typical Architecture Style | Art Deco, Brownstone | Victorian, Craftsman |
Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Proximity to subway, views of skyline | Yard space, proximity to parks |
In considering a move from New York City to Oakland, it's fascinating to observe the nuanced differences in their real estate landscapes. While both cities boast a vibrant urban lifestyle, New York City's unparalleled walkability and iconic skyline views are contrasted by Oakland's emphasis on yard space and proximity to parks, such as the Joaquin Miller Park. Additionally, Oakland's architecture leans towards the charming Victorian and Craftsman styles, giving it a unique aesthetic appeal. Despite the higher median home price in Oakland, the slightly lower rent might be appealing for those looking to make a move. These aspects altogether paint a vivid picture of what life could be like when transitioning from the East to the West Coast.
New York City vs. Oakland Weather Considerations
When considering moving from one location to another, understanding the weather differences is crucial. This comparison between New York City, NY and Oakland, CA offers insight into what you can expect climate-wise, helping you prepare for the transition. By comparing average temperatures, sunshine days, and more, this guide aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the weather variations you'll encounter.
New York City, NY
Oakland, CA
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
New York City, NY
Oakland, CA
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
New York City, NY
Oakland, CA
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
New York City, NY
Oakland, CA
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Comparison | New York City | Oakland |
---|---|---|
Air Quality | Moderate | Good |
Natural Disasters | Hurricanes, Nor'easters | Earthquakes, Wildfires |
Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
While New York City and Oakland both offer vibrant urban living, their climates differ significantly. Oakland enjoys more days of sunshine and milder temperatures throughout the year, compared to the distinct seasons experienced in New York City. The moderate winters and cooler summers in Oakland make it an attractive destination for those seeking relief from extreme temperatures. Additionally, the air quality in Oakland tends to be better, contributing to a healthier living environment. However, it's important to note the different risks associated with natural disasters in each area, with Oakland being more prone to earthquakes and wildfires, while New York City faces threats from hurricanes and Nor'easters.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from New York City to Oakland
When considering a move from one city to another, it's crucial to grasp the financial landscapes you're transitioning between. This comparison will highlight how the cost of living and the economic environment in New York City contrast with those in Oakland , helping you better prepare for the financial aspects of your relocation.
Comparison | New York City | Oakland |
---|---|---|
Avg. Household Income | $67,997 | $82,236 |
Cost of Living Index | 185.8 | 139.1 |
State Income Tax | 4-8.82 | 1-13.3 |
Avg. Property Tax | 0.88 | 0.73 |
Avg. Sales Tax | 8.875 | 9.25 |
Top 3 Industries | Finance, Healthcare, Retail | Technology, Healthcare, Retail |
Affluence | Very high | High |
Poverty | Significant | Moderate |
Homelessness | High | Very high |
Comparing New York City to Oakland reveals significant insights, particularly in terms of the average household income, which is slightly higher in New York City. However, this higher income is offset by a substantially higher cost of living index. The state income tax in California (pertaining to Oakland) has a higher potential maximum rate, which might impact higher earners more significantly. In terms of property and sales tax, the differences are relatively modest but could influence your overall budget planning. Additionally, both cities exhibit diverse leading industries, offering various employment opportunities. Understanding these dynamics can help you anticipate and prepare for the financial changes associated with your move.
New York City vs. Oakland Political & Religious Comparison
When considering a move from New York City, NY to Oakland, CA, understanding the local ambiance is crucial. Through a comparison of the politics between New York City & Oakland , this brief insight aims to provide a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents, helping you better anticipate the cultural atmosphere of your potential new home.
New York City | Oakland | |
---|---|---|
Political Make-up | Mostly Democratic | Strongly Democratic |
Local Politics | Diverse representation | Progressive leadership |
Religion | Multicultural and diverse | Multicultural, with strong progressive communities |
Both New York City and Oakland share a Democratic leaning, yet Oakland is known for its particularly strong progressive stance, often reflected in its local politics. Leadership in Oakland tends to advocate heavily for social justice, environmental concerns, and inclusivity. While both cities boast a rich tapestry of religious and cultural diversity, Oakland features a noteworthy presence of progressive religious communities and places of worship that are deeply integrated within the social fabric of the city. These characteristics invite an environment where you might find yourself engaged in vibrant community activism and rich, multicultural exchanges.
New York City vs. Oakland Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
This guide aims to help you better understand what the daily commute and traffic is like, by comparing traffic and transportation options between New York City & Oakland. Whether you're driving to work or using public transit, knowing these differences can significantly impact your decision-making process.
Comparison | New York City | Oakland |
---|---|---|
Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 41 | 29.3 |
Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
Can you get by without car? | Yes | More challenging, but possible |
While both New York City and Oakland offer unique challenges and benefits for commuters, there are key differences to consider. New York City, with its extensive public transit system, including the MTA, allows residents to easily navigate the city without a car. In contrast, Oakland, though having a decent public transit system with options like BART, still makes car ownership more attractive for convenience and broader accessibility. The average commute time in Oakland is notably shorter than in New York City, reflecting the lower traffic congestion levels. Nevertheless, being adaptable and planning your commute effectively can mitigate some of these challenges, regardless of your city of residence.



Additional Resources
New York City Moving Services
Popular New York City to California Routes
Popular Moving Resources