Best New York City to San Francisco Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from New York City to San Francisco and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 3,019 mile move from New York to California go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 58 New York City 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 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 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 New York City to San Francisco 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 | Bay - L.A. Express Moving | 9.32 | 9.49 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
(800) 787-5428Cost to Move from New York City to San Francisco
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 3,019 miles from New York City, NY to San Francisco, CA will cost on average $4,349 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom New York City to San Francisco move is roughly $10,520. 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 | $2,914 | 300 ft³ | 9.71 |
| 1 Bedroom | $4,349 | 450 ft³ | 9.66 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $7,210 | 750 ft³ | 9.61 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $10,520 | 1100 ft³ | 9.56 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $15,222 | 1600 ft³ | 9.51 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $17,034 | 1800 ft³ | 9.46 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from San Francisco to New York City guide.
Compare the 5 Best New York City to San Francisco 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) |
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) |
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. San Francisco Neighborhood Comparison
Moving to a new city can be daunting, especially when you're leaving behind the familiar comfort of your neighborhood. To ease this transition, we've created a guide to help you find similar neighborhoods between New York City, NY & San Francisco, CA. By comparing popular areas in both cities, we aim to give you a starting point in finding your new local hangout, coffee shop, or park.
| New York City | San Francisco | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Williamsburg | Mission District | Vibrant arts scene, hip eateries |
| Upper East Side | Pacific Heights | Upscale, with historic charm |
| Greenwich Village | Haight-Ashbury | Bohemian, rich in history |
| SoHo | Hayes Valley | Trendy shopping, chic boutiques |
| Midtown | Financial District | Bustling business, skyscrapers |
| Tribeca | Marina District | Upscale, waterfront views |
| DUMBO | South Beach | Waterfront, modern lofts |
| Chelsea | Castro | Diverse, rich cultural scene |
| Harlem | Fillmore District | Historic, vibrant music scene |
| Lower East Side | North Beach | Eclectic, lively nightlife |
If you're enchanted by the historic charm and upscale boutiques of New York City's Upper East Side, you'll likely fall in love with Pacific Heights in San Francisco. With its stunning views of the Bay, Pacific Heights offers a blend of majestic Victorian homes and modern amenities. A stroll around the neighborhood might lead you to Fillmore Street, known for its luxury shopping and dining options. Meanwhile, fans of Williamsburg's lively arts scene and trendy cafes would find a West Coast sibling in the Mission District, where murals and music venues abound alongside artisan coffee shops such as Ritual Coffee Roasters. Exploring the storied streets of Greenwich Village? Haight-Ashbury's bohemian vibe, complete with iconic record stores like Amoeba Music, offers a similar fusion of history and culture amidst its colorful Victorian houses.
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from New York City to San Francisco
Moving from New York City, NY to San Francisco, CA is a significant transition that comes with its set of challenges and rewards. This comparison aims to provide an honest reflection of the good and bad attributes of relocating from New York City, NY to San Francisco, CA . By examining the pros and cons, you can make a more informed decision about this life-changing move.
New York City, NY- Higher living costs
- Crowded subways
- Harsh winters
- Noisy nights
- Fast-paced lifestyle
San Francisco, CA- More tech jobs
- Better climate
- Milder winters
- Quieter neighborhoods
- Laid-back vibe
San Francisco, CA- High rent prices
- Less diversity in food
- Commuting challenges
- Smaller historical footprint
- Earlier closing times
New York City, NY- Dynamic culture
- World-class dining
- Extensive public transit
- Rich history
- Vibrant nightlife
While New York City buzzes with an unmatched dynamic culture, highlighted by destinations such as The Metropolitan Museum of Art and a plethora of dining options ranging from the iconic Katz's Delicatessen to trendy rooftop bars in Brooklyn, the move to San Francisco ushers in a refreshing change. San Francisco, with its tech-centric job market, offers significant opportunities for those in the technology sector. The city is famous for its picturesque landscapes, including the serene Golden Gate Park, the bustling Fisherman's Wharf, and the historic sights of Alcatraz Island. Additionally, San Francisco’s more laid-back vibe and milder weather conditions provide a comfortable environment that counters the fast-paced, often harsh living conditions found in New York City. While you'll miss the vibrancy and the 24/7 pulse of NYC, San Francisco's charm lies in its ability to offer a high quality of life with its unique neighborhoods like the Mission District, famous for its murals, and the numerous tech hubs scattered across the city.
New York City vs. San Francisco Food Guide
Food deeply reflects the local culture and living experience of an area. Through this comparison of local cuisine between New York City & San Francisco, you'll gain insights into what culinary delights await you in your new home. This guide aims to make your transition as flavorful as possible.
| New York City | San Francisco | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Bagel | Sourdough Bread |
| Most popular meat dish | Pastrami Sandwich | Cioppino |
| Most popular street food item | Hot Dog | Mission Burrito |
| Most popular vegan food | Avocado Toast | Vegan Ramen |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
Exploring the food landscapes of New York City and San Francisco offers a delicious peek into their cultures. New York’s famous bagels can be enjoyed in quaint cafes scattered throughout the city, particularly renowned spots like Katz's Delicatessen in the Lower East Side serve as landmarks for food enthusiasts. In San Francisco, the sourdough bread traditions deeply embedded in the city's history can be savored in bakeries like Tartine Bakery. The Mission District is a haven for those seeking the iconic Mission Burrito, a testament to the city’s rich Mexican culinary influence. Both cities boast a vibrant foodie scene, but San Francisco edges ahead with its health-conscious offerings and abundance of vegan options, reflecting the city’s overall lifestyle. Whether it’s the bustling food trucks spreading diverse flavors or exclusive dining experiences in sought-after restaurants, both cities promise a culinary adventure that’s sure to enrich your move.
New York City vs. San Francisco Restaurant Comparison
When relocating from New York City, NY to San Francisco, CA, finding those perfect dining spots is crucial for feeling at home. This restaurant comparison between New York City and San Francisco will serve as your guide to discovering new favorite eateries based on your current favorites. Let's dive into the culinary scene of your future home city.
| New York City | San Francisco | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Le Bernardin | Quince | Both offer French-inspired menus and impeccable service |
| Katz's Delicatessen | Wise Sons Jewish Delicatessen | Both are go-to spots for classic Jewish delicatessen dishes |
| Prince Street Pizza | Tony’s Pizza Napoletana | Known for their flavor-packed square slices similar to Prince Street Pizza |
| Di Fara Pizza | Golden Boy Pizza | Both have a cult following for their unique and delicious pizza offerings |
| Gramercy Tavern | Foreign Cinema | Both provide a cozy atmosphere with innovative American cuisine |
| Per Se | Gary Danko | High-end dining experiences with tasting menus that focus on seasonality and quality |
| Joe’s Shanghai | Dumpling Time | Both restaurants are beloved for their exceptional dumplings and traditional Asian dishes |
| Shake Shack | Gott’s Roadside | Both are popular for high-quality burgers, shakes, and a casual dining experience |
| Carbone | Original Joe’s | Both are known for their classic Italian-American dishes in a vintage, classic setting |
| Dominique Ansel Bakery | Tartine Bakery | Popular for innovative pastries and desserts that draw crowds daily |
For those moving from the iconic streets of New York City to the vibrant bayside city of San Francisco, the transition can be sweetened by knowing where to find your future culinary haunts. Whether it's enjoying the French-inspired elegance of Quince, reminiscent of Le Bernardin, or relishing in the delectable square slices of Tony’s Pizza Napoletana similar to Prince Street Pizza, San Francisco’s dining scene will not disappoint. Not to mention, establishments like Wise Sons Jewish Delicatessen and Dumpling Time offer the comfort of home with their take on classic Jewish delicacies and exquisite dumplings, ensuring a smooth culinary transition. Each of these San Francisco restaurants encapsulate the essence of their New York counterparts while also offering a taste of the local flavor and flair, making your new city feel like home.
Ready to start your move?
New York City vs. San Francisco Real Estate & Living Facts
Knowing how real estate compares between New York City and San Francisco is crucial for any move. These two vibrant cities offer unique living experiences, essential to understand when relocating. Let's delve into their housing differences to better prepare for your transition.
| Comparison | New York City | San Francisco |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Art Deco, Beaux-Arts | Victorian, Edwardian |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Doorman, Roof Deck | Bay Views, Outdoor Spaces |
When comparing the New York City and San Francisco housing markets, a few key points stand out. San Francisco's median home price is significantly higher, making it one of the most expensive places to live in the United States. However, its charm lies in its distinct Victorian and Edwardian architectural styles, often accompanied by stunning bay views in real estate listings. New York City is unparalleled in urban lifestyle and high walkability, featuring iconic Art Deco and Beaux-Arts buildings. Both cities rank highly in terms of urban lifestyle, offering vibrant social scenes and ample amenities, though San Francisco edges out with better bikeability, attributing to its more extensive network of bike paths.
New York City vs. San Francisco Weather Considerations
When planning a move from New York City, NY to San Francisco, CA, it's essential to understand how the weather differences might affect you. This comparison will highlight the key climate variances to ensure you know what to expect in your new home. Let’s dive into the New York City versus San Francisco weather comparison to better prepare for your relocation.
New York City, NY
San Francisco, CA
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
New York City, NY
San Francisco, CA
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
New York City, NY
San Francisco, CA
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
New York City, NY
San Francisco, CA
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | New York City | San Francisco |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Good to Moderate | Good |
| Natural Disasters | Hurricanes, Nor'easters | Earthquakes, Wildfires |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | 224 days | 259 days |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
Moving from New York City to San Francisco, you'll find yourself in a milder climate year-round, with cooler summers and gentler winters in San Francisco. Not only will you enjoy more sunny days, but the challenges shift from dealing with snow to managing in a city that faces unique natural disasters such as earthquakes and wildfires. Additionally, while San Francisco’s weather is generally more temperate, its higher humidity levels and frequent fog can be surprising to newcomers. Understanding these differences is crucial for a smooth transition and adapting to your new surroundings comfortably.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from New York City to San Francisco
When considering a move between cities, understanding how your financial situation will adjust is paramount. This comparison focuses on the costs and economic environments of New York City and San Francisco, highlighting vital financial indicators. It's a glimpse into what you may encounter transitioning between these two bustling economic powerhouses.
| Comparison | New York City | San Francisco |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $67,997 | $121,826 |
| Cost of Living Index | 185.8 | 164 |
| State Income Tax | 6.33 (up to 10.9%) | 8.00 (up to 13.3%) |
| Avg. Property Tax | 0.88 | 0.73 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 8.875 | 8.625 |
| Top 3 Industries | Finance, Healthcare, Retail | Technology, Finance, Tourism |
| Affluence | High | Very High |
| Poverty | Moderate | Lower |
| Homelessness | High | Very High |
Moving from New York City to San Francisco, you'll notice a substantial jump in the cost of living, especially in housing costs, as reflected in the Cost of Living Index. Despite the higher average household income in San Francisco, the city's affluence is coupled with significant homelessness challenges, a factor worth considering when moving. Tax rates slightly favor San Francisco, but the actual impact will largely depend on your income bracket and spending habits. Additionally, the tech-dominated job market in San Francisco contrasts with New York's diversified economy, potentially shaping your employment opportunities.
New York City vs. San Francisco Political & Religious Comparison
This comparison offers a quick glimpse into the political and religious landscape of New York City & San Francisco . Understand the communities you'd be moving into, focusing on the political leanings and religious affiliations of their residents.
| New York City | San Francisco | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Primarily liberal/Democratic | Strongly liberal/Democratic |
| Local Politics | Diverse, with active involvement in social issues | Progressive, with a focus on sustainability and inclusivity |
| Religion | Multicultural religious practices, including Christianity, Judaism, Islam, Buddhism, and Hinduism | Religious diversity, but with a notable number of people identifying as non-religious |
In both cities, you'll find a predominantly liberal and Democratic-leaning population, though San Francisco might present an even more progressive community. This is particularly visible in local politics where San Francisco's emphasis on sustainability and inclusiveness sets a high standard. Religious practices in NYC cover a broad spectrum from Christianity to Buddhism, reflecting its highly multicultural population. San Francisco, while also diverse, has a significant portion of its population identifying as non-religious. This facet of San Francisco points to its openness and acceptance of various lifestyle and belief systems.
New York City vs. San Francisco Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Moving from New York City, NY to San Francisco, CA, it’s crucial to understand how this impacts your daily commute and traffic experiences. This comparison of the traffic and transportation options between New York City & San Francisco is designed to give you a clear picture of what to expect when transitioning from the East Coast to the West.
| Comparison | New York City | San Francisco |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 41 | 34 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | Yes | Yes, but less convenient |
Both New York City and San Francisco offer robust public transportation systems, but there are some nuances. For instance, NYC’s transit system is more extensive, allowing you to easily navigate the city without a car. On the other hand, while SF’s public transit is also reliable, you might find certain areas less accessible without a vehicle. Traffic congestion in NYC is slightly higher due to its dense population and narrower streets, making the average commute time longer than in SF. Understanding these differences can help you better plan your daily travel and explore alternative commuting options in your new city.
Additional Resources
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