Best Salem to San Jose Movers + Moving Guide

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If you're moving from Salem to San Jose and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 624 mile move from Oregon to California go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 25 Salem to San Jose 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 D&L Movers), 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 San Jose. 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.

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Best Salem to San Jose Moving Companies

RankCompany NameRating QuestionAffordability IndexLicenseContact
1D&L Movers9.349.36ActiveContact
2Careful Movers9.318.63Authorized For HHGContact
3Northwest Grace Moving9.289.28Authorized For HHGContact
4All Service Moving9.278.91Authorized For Property, HHGContact
5Comfortable Moving9.159.55Authorized For HHGContact
Phone (800) 787-5428

Cost to Move from Salem to San Jose

Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 624 miles from Salem, OR to San Jose, CA will cost on average $2,312 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Salem to San Jose move is roughly $5,541. 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 SizeMoving CostVolume of Packed Items (ft³)$/ft³
Studio$1,556300 ft³5.19
1 Bedroom$2,312450 ft³5.14
2 Bedrooms$3,816750 ft³5.09
3 Bedrooms$5,5411100 ft³5.04
4 Bedrooms$7,9801600 ft³4.99
5+ Bedrooms$8,8871800 ft³4.94
*Please note: These Oregon to California moving prices are rough approximations based upon nationwide data as well as local and statewide data from Oregon & California. The volume listed here represents the estimated cubic footage of your household items when packed and loaded into a moving truck. To determine the exact costs associated with your move, get a quote from a licensed OR to CA mover.
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from San Jose to Salem guide.

Compare the 5 Best Salem to San Jose Movers

These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)

D&L Movers Logo

D&L Movers

Exceptional9.34/10
based on 1,789+ data points

1563 Bahama Way

Campbell, CA, 95008

About D&L Movers

Founded by Drew Sanchez and Leo Cervantes, D&L Movers is a local moving company that offers full-service relocations for homes and...

Services

  • Cheap moving
  • Local moving
  • Long-distance moving

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 7/23/2023)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2706648 / -

Active

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans3
Registered Drivers5
Total Annual Miles Moved20,000 (2017)
View Full Review
1
Careful Movers Logo

Careful Movers

Exceptional9.31/10
based on 4,655+ data points

3641 Haven Ave C

Menlo Park, CA, 94025

About Careful Movers

With almost two decades of expertise and experience in the moving industry, Menlo Park-based Careful Movers promises stress-free, on-time, and on-budget...

Services

  • Local Moving
  • Long Distance Moving
  • Office Moving

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/9/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

1464935 / 553377

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans14
Registered Drivers14
Total Annual Miles Moved90,000 (2022)
View Full Review
2
Northwest Grace Moving Logo

Northwest Grace Moving

Exceptional9.28/10
based on 605+ data points

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

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 8/9/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

1999959 / 755213

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans3
Registered Drivers3
Total Annual Miles Moved50,000 (2023)
View Full Review
3
All Service Moving Logo

All Service Moving

Exceptional
claimed company icon
9.27/10
based on 9,065+ data points

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

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/9/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

1863079 / 722865

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans80
Registered Drivers113
Total Annual Miles Moved1,186,786 (2022)
View Full Review
4
Comfortable Moving Logo

Comfortable Moving

Exceptional9.15/10
based on 691+ data points

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

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 8/23/2022)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3236736 / 1015844

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans1
Registered Drivers1
Total Annual Miles Moved14,000 (2020)
View Full Review
5
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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. San Jose Neighborhood Comparison

Relocating can be a grand adventure, especially when moving from one city to another. To ease the transition, we're offering a unique guide designed to compare popular neighborhoods in Salem, OR & San Jose, CA . This comparison aims to help you familiarize yourself with unfamiliar terrains by using what you know as a baseline. Discover which neighborhoods offer a similar vibe, amenities, and lifestyle to what you're accustomed to in Salem as you plan your move to San Jose.

SalemSan JoseHow They're Similar
West SalemWillow GlenFamily-friendly atmosphere
South SalemAlmaden ValleySerene suburban setting
SunnyslopeCambrian ParkQuiet, community-centric
EnglewoodRose GardenHistoric homes, lush landscapes
Faye WrightEvergreenDiverse with great parks
GrantBerryessaStrong sense of community
HighlandAlvisoUnique, small-town feel
NorthgateNorth San JoseTech-focused, vibrant
MorningsideLos GatosUpscale, with nature access
Northeast NeighborsWillow GlenCharming, walkable, with boutiques

For instance, if you adore the quaint, family-oriented vibe of West Salem, reminiscent of peaceful suburban life, then Willow Glen in San Jose will feel like home, with its tree-lined streets, diverse architecture, and vibrant community. Similarly, South Salem's tranquility and spacious homes find a parallel in Almaden Valley, where serene suburban living is coupled with sprawling green spaces. Those who appreciate the historic charm and lush landscapes of Englewood will find Rose Garden's elegant, timeless homes and immaculately maintained gardens a perfect match. Not to be overlooked, tech enthusiasts drawn to Northgate's growing tech presence may discover that North San Jose's dynamic tech hub aligns with their professional aspirations while offering a bustling urban lifestyle. These comparisons aim to paint a clearer picture of your potential new neighborhood in San Jose, emphasizing local parks, restaurants like San Pedro Square for dining, and popular areas such as the Guadalupe River Park for recreation, making your transition as seamless as possible.

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Pros and Cons of Moving from Salem to San Jose

Moving from Salem, OR to San Jose, CA can be a significant change. To help you weigh your decision, we've created charts that compare the cons and pros related to this relocation. These reflections offer an honest look at what you'll gain and what you'll need to adjust to in your new city.

CONs
PROs
Salem, OR iconSalem, OR
  • Smaller job market
  • Less diverse cuisine
  • Lower average salary
  • Milder climate
San Jose, CA iconSan Jose, CA
  • Vibrant tech industry
  • Global dining options
  • Higher potential earnings
  • Sunnier days
San Jose, CA iconSan Jose, CA
  • Expensive housing
  • Fast-paced environment
  • Urban-centric
  • Dense population
Salem, OR iconSalem, OR
  • Lower cost of living
  • Laid-back lifestyle
  • Access to nature
  • Smaller community feel

While the tech industry in San Jose offers higher potential earnings compared to Salem, it's essential to consider the high cost of living, especially the housing market. However, San Jose counters with an expansive array of global dining options, from authentic Vietnamese at Oak & Roll to Mexican delights at La Luna Grill. The city's sunny climate allows for year-round outdoor activities, including visits to popular spots like the Guadalupe River Park and Gardens. Though it carries a faster pace and more dense population, the transition from Salem's laid-back and nature-focused lifestyle could be significant but rewarding for those seeking vibrant urban living and career opportunities.

Salem vs. San Jose Food Guide

Understanding the culinary landscape of your new home is crucial, as food is a significant aspect of local culture and daily life. In this guide, we compare the local cuisine between Salem, OR, and San Jose, CA to offer insights into what dining and grocery shopping will look like for you as you make your move.

SalemSan Jose
Most iconic local food itemMarionberry PiePho
Most popular meat dishGrilled SalmonKalbi Short Ribs
Most popular street food itemFusion TacosBánh mì
Most popular vegan foodQuinoa SaladTofu Pho
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
    • Word of Mouth Bistro
    • Busick Court Restaurant
    • Adam's Rib Smoke House
    • Original Joe's San Jose
    • Falafel's Drive-In
    • Manresa Bread
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
Abundance of Food Trucks🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
Foodie Scene🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

Exploring the food scene in San Jose, you'll discover a vivid diversity mirrored in its culinary offerings. Often hailed for its Vietnamese cuisine, San Jose's Japantown and downtown areas are great places to start for authentic Pho or Bánh mì, courtesy of the city's rich Vietnamese heritage. Vegan newcomers will marvel at the variety, particularly in neighborhoods like Willow Glen, where vegan-friendly options abound. As for iconic eats, don’t miss the chance to visit Original Joe's for a taste of classic Italian-American fare or Falafel's Drive-In for a quick, delicious bite reflecting the local food truck culture. On weekends, Santana Row offers a bustling scene with Manresa Bread standing out for breakfast delights.

Salem vs. San Jose Restaurant Comparison

Making a new city feel like home starts with discovering where to enjoy a memorable meal. This comparison between Salem and San Jose restaurants will guide you in finding new favorite spots that echo the flavors of your Salem favorites. Whether you're in the mood for haute cuisine or a simple, satisfying bite, this match-up ensures you won't miss out on culinary comforts during your transition.

SalemSan JoseWhat You'll Love
Word of Mouth BistroBill’s CaféCozy breakfast nook known for hearty brunches
Bentley’s GrillArcadiaModern American cuisine with a sophisticated vibe
Christo’s PizzeriaTony Di Maggio’s PizzaStoried spot for classic pizzas and pasta
Busick Court RestaurantScrambl’zVintage-themed diner famous for all-day breakfast
DaVinci’sOriginal Joe’s San JoseTime-honored Italian-American comfort food
Rafns’Vegetarian HouseOrganic, plant-based meals echoing Rafns’ commitment to fresh, wholesome food
Marco Polo GlobalMezcal RestaurantOffers a worldly menu with a strong Oaxacan influence
Amadeus CafeLudwig’s German TableAuthentic German cuisine in a convivial atmosphere
La Margarita ExpressAdelita’s TaqueriaVibrant flavors of traditional Mexican dishes in a casual setting
The Kitchen on Court StreetSJ Omogari Korean RestaurantBeloved for its home-style Korean dishes and comfort food

When the pizza cravings hit, Tony Di Maggio’s Pizza in San Jose stands ready to offer an experience reminiscent of Christo’s Pizzeria in Salem, with their devotion to crafting traditional and beloved pizza favorites. Likewise, breakfast and brunch enthusiasts transitioning from Salem will find comfort and familiarity in the ambiance and menu of Bill’s Café, akin to what Busick Court Restaurant serves up. For those seeking more delicate, plant-based options that mirror the quality and philosophy of Rafns’ in Salem, the Vegetarian House in San Jose provides a sanctuary of organic and wholesome meals, ensuring that the transition between the cities doesn't mean sacrificing the flavors and dining experiences you’ve come to cherish.

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Salem vs. San Jose Real Estate & Living Facts

Real estate is a pivotal element of relocating. Comparing the two dynamic environments of Salem, OR, and San Jose, CA helps illuminate diverse aspects of housing, including costs, architecture, and lifestyle amenities, thereby guiding your decision-making process.

ComparisonSalemSan Jose
Typical Architecture StyleNorthwest CraftsmanModern and Mediterranean
Walkability 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listingFamily-friendly, Natural landscapesTech-friendly, Proximity to Silicon Valley

When considering a move from Salem to San Jose, it's clear the housing landscape changes dramatically, especially in terms of cost. The Median Home Price in San Jose is significantly higher than in Salem, reflecting San Jose's position in the heart of Silicon Valley and its booming tech industry. This tech influence is also mirrored in the most sought-after features of its real estate, with listings frequently highlighting smart home technology and proximity to major tech campuses. Salem, with its emphasis on Northwest Craftsman homes and natural landscapes, offers a more traditional, family-oriented living experience. Notably, San Jose outpaces Salem in urban lifestyle amenities, boasting higher walkability and bikeability scores, indicative of its vibrant, more densely populated environment.

Pet-friendly neighborhoods background image

Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in San Jose, CA

1. Willow Glen: Known for its quaint, tree-lined streets, you'll find plenty of pet-friendly restaurants and a welcoming atmosphere at Willow Glen's downtown area, perfect for leisurely walks with your furry friends.

2. Cambrian Park: Boasting a serene suburban vibe, Cambrian Park is home to several parks, including the dog-friendly Butcher Dog Park, where your pets can play off-leash in a safe, enclosed environment.

3. Downtown San Jose: If you're looking for a more urban experience, Downtown San Jose offers many pet-friendly living spaces and amenities, alongside dog-friendly dining options like Original Joe’s, making it an ideal place for pet owners who love city living.

Salem vs. San Jose Weather Considerations

Moving from one city to another means adapting to new weather patterns. Understanding how the climate in Salem, OR compares to San Jose, CA is crucial for your preparation. This comparison highlights the significant weather differences you should expect.

Summer icon
82°F / 53°F

Salem, OR

82°F / 58°F

San Jose, CA

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
47°F / 36°F

Salem, OR

60°F / 42°F

San Jose, CA

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
40"

Salem, OR

15.5"

San Jose, CA

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
5"

Salem, OR

0"

San Jose, CA

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

ComparisonSalemSan Jose
Air QualityModerateGood
Natural DisastersFloods, EarthquakesEarthquakes, Wildfires
Days of Sunshine per Year☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. UV Index🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Avg. Annual Humidity💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦

When relocating from Salem to San Jose, you'll notice a significant increase in sunny days and milder winters, with San Jose providing over a hundred more days of sunshine annually. While both cities enjoy similar summer temperatures, winters are noticeably warmer in San Jose. Moreover, San Jose experiences less annual rainfall and virtually no snowfall, presenting a drier climate overall. These climatic differences significantly impact daily life and activities, suggesting a need for lighter clothing and, possibly, a more active outdoor lifestyle in your new Californian city.

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Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Salem to San Jose

When planning a move from one city to another, it's crucial to understand how the cost of living, taxes, and income will change. This comparison between Salem and San Jose is designed to give you a clear picture of what to expect financially, helping you make informed decisions for a smoother transition.

ComparisonSalemSan Jose
Avg. Household Income$63,927$126,377
Cost of Living Index110.55156.1
State Income Tax9.913.3
Avg. Property Tax1.070.79
Avg. Sales Tax09.25
Top 3 IndustriesGovernment, Education, HealthcareTechnology, Manufacturing, Retail
AffluenceModerateHigh
PovertyModerateLow
HomelessnessSignificantHigh

Transitioning from Salem to San Jose, you'll notice a stark difference in the average household income, which is notably higher in San Jose, hinting at the city's affluence. However, this increase is matched by a cost of living that is more than double that of Salem, with housing costs being a significant factor. While the state income tax rate in California is higher, San Jose's vibrant economy is driven by tech, manufacturing, and retail sectors, offering diverse job opportunities. Yet, it's important to consider that the higher earnings and opportunities in San Jose are coupled with increased living costs, which could influence your overall quality of life and financial health.

Salem vs. San Jose Political & Religious Comparison

Understanding the community you're moving into is key to a smooth transition. This comparison offers a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents moving from Salem to San Jose , providing insight into the ideological and cultural landscape of your new city.

SalemSan Jose
Political Make-upLean LiberalStrongly Liberal
Local PoliticsModerate focus on social issuesHigh focus on technology and diversity issues
ReligionMixed, with Christian presenceDiverse, with significant Buddhist and Catholic communities

When moving from Salem to San Jose, you'll notice a shift towards more liberal political attitudes, reflecting San Jose's strong emphasis on tech innovation and diversity. Local politics in San Jose often revolve around economic development and housing, centric to its position in Silicon Valley, compared to Salem's balanced approach towards social and economic issues. Additionally, San Jose's religious landscape is more varied, with a larger representation of Buddhist and Catholic communities alongside a mix of other religious groups, offering a more diverse cultural experience.

Salem vs. San Jose Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

Moving from Salem, OR to San Jose, CA requires adjusting to new commuting realities. This comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Salem & San Jose is designed to help you better understand what the daily commute and traffic is like, equipping you for a smoother transition.

ComparisonSalemSan Jose
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)2330
Traffic Congestion 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦
Availability of Public Transit 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇
Can you get by without car?Possibly, but challengingYes, with some planning

In Salem, the average commute time is notably shorter, and traffic congestion significantly less severe compared to San Jose. However, San Jose excels in public transportation options, offering a wider availability that could make carless living more feasible. While you could possibly get by without a car in Salem, the effort would be greater compared to San Jose, where the transit system, including the Valley Transportation Authority (VTA), provides more extensive coverage, making it easier for you to navigate the city without personal transportation.

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