Best Salem to Oakland Movers + Moving Guide
Want help with the heavy lifting?
If you're moving from Salem to Oakland and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 585 mile move from Oregon to California go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 20 Salem 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 $1,500 - $5,500 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Salem 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 Salem 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 | Northwest Grace Moving | 9.28 | 9.28 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
3 | All Service Moving | 9.27 | 8.91 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
4 | Comfortable Moving | 9.15 | 9.55 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
5 | Fairprice Movers | 8.87 | 9.12 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
Cost to Move from Salem to Oakland
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 585 miles from Salem, OR to Oakland, CA will cost on average $2,279 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Salem to Oakland move is roughly $5,460. 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 | $1,534 | 300 ft³ | 5.11 |
1 Bedroom | $2,279 | 450 ft³ | 5.06 |
2 Bedrooms | $3,760 | 750 ft³ | 5.01 |
3 Bedrooms | $5,460 | 1100 ft³ | 4.96 |
4 Bedrooms | $7,862 | 1600 ft³ | 4.91 |
5+ Bedrooms | $8,755 | 1800 ft³ | 4.86 |


Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Oakland to Salem guide.
Compare the 5 Best Salem 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) |

Northwest Grace Moving
19764 Cypresswood St
Oregon City, OR, 97045
About Northwest Grace Moving
Founded in 2008, Northwest Grace Moving is a fully licensed, bonded, and insured Oregon moving company that serves the entire Portland...
Services
- Local Moving
- Long Distance Moving
- Senior Moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 1999959 / 755213 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
Registered Trucks/Vans | 3 |
Registered Drivers | 3 |
Total Annual Miles Moved | 50,000 (2023) |

All Service Moving

66 SE Morrison St
Portland, OR, 97214
About All Service Moving
Based in Portland, OR, Willamette Valley Moving has provided moving services in Oregon, Washington, and Idaho for over 18 years. By...
Services
- Residential Moving
- Commercial Moving
- Long Distance Moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 1863079 / 722865 Authorized For Property, HHG Carrier |
Registered Trucks/Vans | 80 |
Registered Drivers | 113 |
Total Annual Miles Moved | 1,186,786 (2022) |

Comfortable Moving
3305 Main St # 023
Vancouver, WA, 98663
About Comfortable Moving
Comfortable Moving is a family-owned and operated moving business providing residential and commercial moving services since 2017. Based in Vancouver, WA,...
Services
- Residential Moving
- Commercial Moving
- Long-Distance Moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3236736 / 1015844 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
Registered Trucks/Vans | 1 |
Registered Drivers | 1 |
Total Annual Miles Moved | 14,000 (2020) |

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.
Salem vs. Oakland Neighborhood Comparison
Moving to a new city can be daunting, especially when you're not familiar with the local communities. To ease the transition, we've created a guide that compares neighborhoods between Salem, OR & Oakland, CA , helping you find a slice of home in your new city. Whether you're looking for bustling urban centers or serene suburban retreats, we've got you covered.
Salem | Oakland | How They're Similar |
---|---|---|
West Salem | Rockridge | Vibrant community vibe |
South Salem | Montclair | Family-friendly with a quieter feel |
Sunnyslope | Glenview | Cozy, with local businesses |
Englewood | Temescal | Rich in history and arts |
Faye Wright | Piedmont Avenue | Quaint, with boutique shopping |
Highland | Grand Lake | Near water with active nightlife |
Grant | Golden Gate | Diverse and community-centric |
Illiahe Hills | Montclair Hills | Serene and upscale |
Morningside | Adams Point | Bustling and scenic lakeside setting |
Central Area | Downtown Oakland | Urban heart with rich culture |
For anyone moving from West Salem, where neighborhood bonds form the core of the community, Rockridge in Oakland offers a similarly vibrant communal atmosphere, enriched by local eateries and markets like Rockridge Market Hall. If the rolling hills and upscale living of Illahe Hills are what you love, you’ll find a comparable lush, hillside escape in Montclair Hills, known for its breathtaking views and properties that seamlessly blend into the natural landscape. Meanwhile, Faye Wright residents used to boutique shopping will delight in Piedmont Avenue’s quaint stores and unique charm. And for those who thrive in the urban hustle of Salem’s Central Area, Downtown Oakland beckons with its eclectic mix of culture, arts, and dining, epitomized by landmarks like the Oakland Museum of California. No matter your preference, transitioning from Salem to Oakland can be a smooth and exciting journey, with neighborhoods catering to all tastes and lifestyles.
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Salem to Oakland
Moving can be a complex decision, influenced by various factors both positive and negative. This comparison aims to offer an honest reflection on moving from Salem, OR to Oakland, CA , highlighting the benefits and drawbacks to help in making an informed decision.
- Smaller job market
- Less diverse cuisine
- Lower cultural diversity
- Less urban
- Quiet nightlife
- Larger job market
- More diverse cuisine
- Higher cultural diversity
- More urban
- Vibrant nightlife
- Higher cost of living
- Less natural spaces
- More traffic
- Faster pace
- More hectic lifestyle
- Lower cost of living
- More natural spaces
- Less traffic
- Friendly community
- More relaxed lifestyle
While moving from Salem to Oakland introduces you to a bustling urban environment with a vibrant nightlife and diverse cuisine, it's critical to weigh these benefits against the higher cost of living and the faster pace of life in Oakland. The transition from Salem's extensive natural spaces like Riverfront Park to Oakland's urban parks such as Lake Merritt might be challenging, but it also opens up new opportunities to explore diverse neighborhoods and culinary delights at locales such as Temescal and Swan's Market. Despite the excitement of moving to a city with a larger job market and more cultural diversity, preparing for the increased cost of living and adjusting to a more hurried lifestyle are crucial steps to take for a smooth transition.
Salem vs. Oakland Food Guide
This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Salem, OR, and Oakland, CA, highlighting the importance of food as a part of local culture and living experience. This insight will help you get an idea of what culinary delights await in your new city.
Salem | Oakland | |
---|---|---|
Most iconic local food item | Marionberry pie | Garlic noodles |
Most popular meat dish | Prime rib | Birria tacos |
Most popular street food item | Food cart tacos | Street tacos |
Most popular vegan food | Tempeh Reuben | Jackfruit tacos |
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
In Oakland, the culinary scene is a diverse tapestry reflective of its vibrant community. Neighborhoods like Temescal are known for their street food, offering an array of choices from birria tacos beloved by locals to innovative vegan options like jackfruit tacos. Iconic restaurants such as Nyum Bai in Fruitvale offer a deep dive into Cambodian cuisine, while the waterfront area boasts establishments like Brown Sugar Kitchen that serve up soulful, comfort foods with a modern twist. Whether you’re strolling through the Oakland Farmers Market or exploring the food trucks that line the streets of downtown, you'll discover that Oakland’s food scene is as diverse and inclusive as its population.
Salem vs. Oakland Restaurant Comparison
Food plays a significant role in making an area feel like home. This restaurant comparison, from Salem to Oakland, aims to help you find your new favorite spots, ensuring a seamless culinary transition. Whether you're looking for a casual bite, an upscale dining experience, or something uniquely local, this guide serves as a starting point in your gastronomic journey in your new city.
Salem | Oakland | What You'll Love |
---|---|---|
Word of Mouth Bistro | Grand Lake Kitchen | Cozy vibes with a menu brimming with comfort classics |
Ike Box | Timeless Coffee | Inviting space with quality coffee and vegan treats |
Rafns' Restaurant | Millennium | Elegant dining with a focus on organic, plant-based dishes |
Marco Polo Global | Hawking Bird | Unique fusion flavors showcasing international flair |
Busick Court Restaurant | Brown Sugar Kitchen | Home of soulful comfort food with a modern twist |
Amadeus Cafe | Duende | Spanish cuisine that perfectly combines traditional and contemporary |
Bo & Vine Burger Bar | TrueBurger | For burger aficionados looking for high-quality, classic American fare |
Bibim Bap House | Ohgane Korean BBQ | Authentic Korean BBQ experience with a wide variety of options |
Rudy's Steakhouse | Hopscotch | American diner classics with a Japanese twist, quality meats |
Venti's Cafe | The Cook and Her Farmer | Fresh, sustainable eats in a casual yet intimate setting |
Exploring the culinary scene is a delightful way to immerse yourself in Oakland's vibrant culture. For example, Grand Lake Kitchen offers an ambiance and menu that feel like a warm hug, much like Salem's Word of Mouth Bistro. Fans of plant-based cuisine transitioning from Rafns' Restaurant will find solace and excitement in Millennium's innovative dishes. Furthermore, burger enthusiasts accustomed to the gourmet options at Bo & Vine Burger Bar in Salem will appreciate the quality and taste at TrueBurger, where the focus on classic American fare rings true. Each Oakland restaurant was selected for its ability to echo the beloved flavors of Salem while introducing you to the diversity and richness of your new city's food scene.

Ready to start your move?
Salem vs. Oakland Real Estate & Living Facts
Real estate is a crucial element when considering a move. Understanding how the housing aspects of Salem, OR and Oakland, CA compare can provide invaluable insights into your decision-making process. This comparison aims to highlight the differences and similarities in the real estate markets of these two cities, focusing on costs, architecture, and lifestyle.
Comparison | Salem | Oakland |
---|---|---|
Typical Architecture Style | Northwest & Craftsman | Victorian & Modern |
Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Spacious yards, family neighborhoods | Proximity to public transit, urban amenities |
In comparing Salem and Oakland, you'll find that each city offers a distinct real estate landscape that reflects its unique character. Salem's housing market is more affordable, with a preference for spacious yards and family-friendly neighborhoods - an ideal choice if you're looking for a quieter, more laid-back environment. Conversely, Oakland, with its higher housing costs, appeals to those seeking an urban lifestyle, featuring homes close to public transit and plenty of city amenities. Interestingly, while Oakland scores higher in walkability, Salem takes a slight lead in bikeability, indicating that Salem could be slightly more accommodating for cyclists. This detailed look into both cities' housing aspects reflects the broader contrasts between them, from architectural styles to the pace of life and everything in between.
Salem vs. Oakland Weather Considerations
Moving from one location to another can be a big adjustment, especially when it comes to weather. It’s important to compare how the weather in Salem, OR will differ from what you’re used to in Oakland, CA. This comparison covers various weather aspects to help you prepare for your new environment.
Salem, OR
Oakland, CA
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Salem, OR
Oakland, CA
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Salem, OR
Oakland, CA
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Salem, OR
Oakland, CA
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Comparison | Salem | Oakland |
---|---|---|
Air Quality | Good | Moderate |
Natural Disasters | Floods, Earthquakes | Earthquakes, Fires |
Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
When moving from Salem to Oakland, one of the most noticeable changes will be the increase in sunny days and a milder winter. Oakland enjoys a Mediterranean-like climate with warm, dry summers and mild, wet winters, contrasting Salem's cooler, more Four-season climate. The significantly lower annual rainfall in Oakland means you'll experience less frequent rain, but you'll also face drier conditions that could impact air quality and increase seasonal allergies, such as grass pollen. Adapting to these changes will make your transition smoother.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Salem to Oakland
When planning a move from one city to another, it's vital to understand how the financial aspects of Salem, OR, and Oakland, CA will impact your budget and lifestyle. This comparison aims to highlight the key differences in money and finance, helping you prepare for what lies ahead.
Comparison | Salem | Oakland |
---|---|---|
Avg. Household Income | $63,927 | $82,236 |
Cost of Living Index | 110.55 | 139.1 |
State Income Tax | 9.9 | 13.3 |
Avg. Property Tax | 1.1 | 0.79 |
Avg. Sales Tax | 0 | 9.25 |
Top 3 Industries | Government, Education, Health care | Technology, Healthcare, Education |
Affluence | Moderate | High |
Poverty | Moderate | High |
Homelessness | Notable | Significant |
Comparing Salem and Oakland's financial landscapes reveals Oakland's higher average household income, which corresponds with its significantly higher cost of living. While Salem enjoys a no sales tax advantage, those moving to Oakland should prepare for a considerable sales tax. Additionally, the higher average income in Oakland is tempered by the state's higher income tax rate. The industries thriving in each city hint at the job markets you're likely to encounter, with technology being a key player in Oakland's economy. Understanding these nuances can help in making a more informed decision about relocating.
Salem vs. Oakland Political & Religious Comparison
Moving from Salem, OR, to Oakland, CA, offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in diverse communities. This comparison provides a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents between Salem & Oakland, helping you understand the social landscape you’re moving into.
Salem | Oakland | |
---|---|---|
Political Make-up | Moderately liberal | Very liberal |
Local Politics | Mixed, with Democratic lean | Strongly Democratic |
Religion | Christian majority, with a mix of other faiths | Diverse, with significant non-religious population |
Transitioning from Salem to Oakland, you'll find yourself in a significantly more liberal environment, particularly when it comes to local politics. Oakland’s political scene is deeply rooted in Democratic values, which reflects in city policies and social attitudes. Moreover, unlike Salem, where Christianity is the prevalent religion, Oakland embraces a wider array of religious and non-religious beliefs, representing its highly diverse population. Understanding these differences can help you better acclimate to your new community and appreciate the cultural and ideological vibrancy Oakland has to offer.
Salem vs. Oakland Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Moving from Salem, OR to Oakland, CA offers a dramatic change in terms of daily commute and traffic experiences. This comparison showcases the differences between driving and transiting in Salem & Oakland, helping you prepare for what lies ahead in your new city.
Comparison | Salem | Oakland |
---|---|---|
Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 23 | 32 |
Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
Can you get by without car? | Challenging | Easier |
Moving from Salem to Oakland, you'll notice a stark difference in your commute. While Salem offers a relatively relaxed commute with lesser traffic congestion, Oakland's bustling streets mean you'll spend more time in transit. However, Oakland compensates with superior public transportation options, making it feasible to navigate the city without a car. This convenience is particularly noticeable with the extensive BART system, which contrasts with the more limited services in Salem. So, if you're accustomed to the ease of getting around in Salem, be prepared for Oakland’s pace but also its broader transit possibilities.



Additional Resources
Salem Moving Services
Popular Salem to California Routes
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