Best Memphis to San Jose Movers + Moving Guide
Want help with the heavy lifting?
If you're moving from Memphis to San Jose and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 2,056 mile move from Tennessee to California go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 26 Memphis 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 $2,500 - $8,500 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Memphis 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.

Best Memphis to San Jose Moving Companies
Rank | Company Name | Rating | Affordability Index | License | Contact |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
1 | D&L Movers | 9.34 | 9.36 | Active | Contact |
2 | Careful Movers | 9.31 | 8.63 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
3 | Garrett's Hauling | 8.79 | 8.8 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
4 | Polk's Reliable Delivery Services, LLC | 8.56 | 8.38 | Authorized For Property | Contact |
5 | My Town Movers | 8.37 | 8.94 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
Cost to Move from Memphis to San Jose
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 2,056 miles from Memphis, TN to San Jose, CA will cost on average $3,530 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Memphis to San Jose move is roughly $8,518. 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 | $2,368 | 300 ft³ | 7.89 |
1 Bedroom | $3,530 | 450 ft³ | 7.84 |
2 Bedrooms | $5,845 | 750 ft³ | 7.79 |
3 Bedrooms | $8,518 | 1100 ft³ | 7.74 |
4 Bedrooms | $12,310 | 1600 ft³ | 7.69 |
5+ Bedrooms | $13,759 | 1800 ft³ | 7.64 |


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

D&L Movers
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
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2706648 / - Active Carrier |
Registered Trucks/Vans | 3 |
Registered Drivers | 5 |
Total Annual Miles Moved | 20,000 (2017) |

Careful Movers
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
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 1464935 / 553377 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
Registered Trucks/Vans | 14 |
Registered Drivers | 14 |
Total Annual Miles Moved | 90,000 (2022) |

Garrett's Hauling
Gallaway, TN, 38036
About Garrett's Hauling
Garrett's Hauling, a recently established moving company in 2021, is based in Cordova, Tennessee, and offers moving services in Cordova, Germantown,...
Services
- Local Moving
- Long Distance Moving
- Commercial Moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3819914 / 1381892 Authorized For Property, HHG Carrier |
Registered Trucks/Vans | 2 |
Registered Drivers | 2 |
Total Annual Miles Moved | 40,000 (2023) |

Polk's Reliable Delivery Services, LLC
3456 Christy Ln
Bartlett, TN, 38135
About Polk's Reliable Delivery Services, LLC
Polk's Reliable Delivery Services, LLC is a family-owned moving company based in Bartlett, TN, with over 14 years of experience in...
Services
- Cheap moving services
- Local moving services
- Long-distance moving services
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3797931 / 1365852 Authorized For Property Carrier |
Registered Trucks/Vans | 1 |
Registered Drivers | 1 |
Total Annual Miles Moved | 10,000 (2021) |

My Town Movers
W 449 US-72 # 129
Collierville, TN, 38017
About My Town Movers
For over a decade, locally owned and operated moving company My Town Movers has been helping people in the Memphis area...
Services
- Local Moving Services
- Long Distance Moving
- Apartment Moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2434252 / 839413 Authorized For Property, HHG Carrier |
Registered Trucks/Vans | 8 |
Registered Drivers | 8 |
Total Annual Miles Moved | 88,000 (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.
Memphis vs. San Jose Neighborhood Comparison
Moving to a new city can be daunting, especially when you're not familiar with its neighborhoods. To help ease this transition, we've created a comparison of local neighborhoods between Memphis, TN & San Jose, CA . This guide aims to match you with a new neighborhood in San Jose that shares the vibe and characteristics of your favorite Memphis area, making the move feel a bit more like coming home.
Memphis | San Jose | How They're Similar |
---|---|---|
Midtown | Willow Glen | Family-friendly, vibrant main street |
Downtown | Downtown San Jose | Urban living, cultural attractions |
East Memphis | Almaden Valley | Affluent, spacious homes |
Cooper-Young | The Alameda | Quirky, artistic vibe |
Germantown | Los Gatos | Upscale, great schools |
Collierville | Saratoga | Quiet, family-oriented |
Cordova | Evergreen | Suburban feel, diverse community |
Berclair | Berryessa | Affordable, strong sense of community |
South Main | Santana Row | Hip, shopping & dining destination |
Harbor Town | Willow Glen | Panoramic views, waterfront homes |
For example, if the artistic and vibrant atmosphere of Cooper-Young has captured your heart in Memphis, you'll find a similar creative pulse in San Jose's The Alameda neighborhood. Known for its quirky art studios and unique local eateries like The Rosebud Café, The Alameda mirrors Cooper-Young's eclectic charm. Those drawn to the historic and upscale feel of Germantown will appreciate Los Gatos's blend of luxury and community spirit, exemplified by places like Testarossa Winery, which adds a touch of refinement and history. By focusing on these key neighborhood characteristics, you can make your move from Memphis to San Jose feel like a seamless transition to a new but familiar home.
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Memphis to San Jose
Moving from one city to another involves weighing out various factors. Through an honest reflection, this comparison aims to provide insights into the pros and cons of relocating from Memphis, TN to San Jose, CA, offering a clearer picture of what to expect. Let's dive into the good and the bad attributes of this relocation to assist in making an informed decision.
- Higher crime rate
- Hot, humid summers
- Lower median income
- Lower crime rate
- Mild, dry summers
- Higher median income
- Higher cost of living
- Fewer cultural landmarks
- Less affordable housing
- Lower cost of living
- Richer musical heritage
- More affordable housing
While examining the trade-offs between Memphis and San Jose, several key factors emerge. For one, Memphis's vibrant musical scene, with landmarks like Graceland and the Stax Museum of American Soul Music, offers a rich cultural tapestry that is harder to find in San Jose. However, San Jose counters with a tech-driven economy enhancing its median income levels and presenting wide-ranging employment opportunities in the tech sector. Additionally, despite Memphis's charm and lower cost of living, San Jose boasts superior mild weather and lower crime rates, making it a desirable place for many. On the other hand, San Jose's higher cost of living, particularly in housing, can be a hurdle. Still, neighborhoods such as Willow Glen and attractions like the San Pedro Square Market provide a vibrant community lifestyle and dining experiences that many find worth the price.
Memphis vs. San Jose Food Guide
This comparison of the local cuisine between Memphis & San Jose serves as a flavorful guide for those relocating. Understanding the food scene is crucial, as it highlights an integral part of local culture and living experience. This comparative glance aims to keep you well-informed about what culinary delights await in your new city.
Memphis | San Jose | |
---|---|---|
Most iconic local food item | Memphis Barbecue | Phở |
Most popular meat dish | Pulled Pork Sandwich | Bánh mì |
Most popular street food item | Fried Catfish | Tacos |
Most popular vegan food | BBQ Tofu | Vegetable Phở |
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
In Memphis, the barbecue is not just food; it's an art form. Legendary joints like The Rendezvous and Gus's World Famous Fried Chicken showcase the rich flavors and heritage of the city. On the flip side, San Jose, located in the heart of Silicon Valley, offers an eclectic food scene reflecting its diverse population. Vietnamese cuisine, represented by dishes like Phở and Bánh Mì, can be savored in neighborhoods such as Little Saigon. The city’s high health consciousness and abundance of food trucks mean that whether you’re craving innovation or tradition, San Jose delivers with both high quality and variety.
Memphis vs. San Jose Restaurant Comparison
Understanding the pivotal role of culinary experiences in making a new city feel like home, this comparison aims to bridge the gap between Memphis and San Jose. By referencing familiar restaurants in Memphis to similar spots in San Jose, relocating individuals can more easily find their next beloved dining destinations.
Memphis | San Jose | What You'll Love |
---|---|---|
Gus's World Famous Fried Chicken | Back A Yard | Caribbean inspired comfort food with a similar home-cooked feel |
Flight Restaurant & Wine Bar | Adega | Portuguese cuisine offering a refined dining experience with an exceptional wine list |
Central BBQ | Smoking Pig BBQ | Authentic BBQ experience capturing the essence of traditional Southern barbecue |
Hog & Hominy | Orchard City Kitchen | American gastropub with innovative dishes that mirror Hog & Hominy’s creativity |
Andrew Michael Italian Kitchen | Paesano Ristorante Italiano | Classic Italian cooking with a focus on family recipes and a welcoming atmosphere |
The Beauty Shop | La Foret Restaurant | Unique dining experience with a beautiful setting, echoing The Beauty Shop’s distinctive charm |
Rendezvous | Henry's Hi-Life | The place for ribs in San Jose, reflecting Rendezvous's iconic status in Memphis |
Bounty on Broad | Plumed Horse | Farm-to-table dining with a sophisticated touch that Bounty on Broad enthusiasts will appreciate |
The Second Line | Poor House Bistro | A lively spot for New Orleans-style fare, capturing the essence of The Second Line |
Soul Fish Cafe | Blue Water Seafood & Crab | Offering hearty, soulful seafood dishes reminiscent of Soul Fish Cafe's specialties |
When you're craving the comfort of Southern-style BBQ, Smoking Pig BBQ in San Jose stands as a tribute to the deep-rooted barbecue traditions akin to Memphis’s Central BBQ. The culinary expertise and passion for smoked meats at both establishments promise satisfying, hearty experiences. Seafood enthusiasts will appreciate Blue Water Seafood & Crab's extensive menu, offering a slice of coastal dining similar to Soul Fish Cafe, but with the added flair of West Coast seafood delights. Meanwhile, Adega's upscale ambiance and commitment to authentic Portuguese flavors offer a gastronomic journey similar to the elegant dining experiences at Flight Restaurant & Wine Bar in Memphis, but with a distinctly European twist.

Ready to start your move?
Memphis vs. San Jose Real Estate & Living Facts
When planning a relocation, comparing the real estate aspects of Memphis, TN, and San Jose, CA, gives you a clear picture of what to expect in terms of living conditions. Understanding the housing costs, architecture, walkability, and urban lifestyle will ease your transition.
Comparison | Memphis | San Jose |
---|---|---|
Typical Architecture Style | Traditional, Ranch | Modern, Mediterranean |
Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Spacious yards, Proximity to downtown | Smart home features, Eco-friendly designs |
Moving from Memphis to San Jose will introduce you to a much higher cost of living when it comes to housing, with median home prices and monthly rents reflecting the stark difference in the cost of living between the two cities. However, in San Jose, you'll likely enjoy a more urban lifestyle with better walkability and bikeability scores, reflecting the city's investment in pedestrian and bicycle-friendly infrastructure. The architecture in San Jose also tends towards modern and Mediterranean styles, showcasing a blend of innovative and traditional designs that cater to the city's diverse population and environmental values. Additionally, the emphasis in San Jose's real estate listings on smart home features and eco-friendly designs points to a community geared towards sustainability and technology.

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.
Memphis vs. San Jose Weather Considerations
When moving from one city to another, it's essential to understand the environmental changes you'll experience. This comparison highlights the weather differences to prepare you for your relocation. Weather comparison between Memphis, TN, and San Jose, CA, provides a clear view of how adapting to a new climate is crucial for your move.
Memphis, TN
San Jose, CA
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Memphis, TN
San Jose, CA
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Memphis, TN
San Jose, CA
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Memphis, TN
San Jose, CA
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Comparison | Memphis | San Jose |
---|---|---|
Air Quality | Moderate | Good |
Natural Disasters | Tornadoes, Floods | Earthquakes |
Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
Adapting from Memphis's humid, often rainy environment to San Jose's drier, sunnier climate can be a refreshing change. The significant increase in sunny days per year in San Jose may elevate your outdoor activities and overall mood. However, the lower humidity in San Jose compared to Memphis might require changes to your skincare and hydration habits. Also, be prepared for the seasonal allergies in San Jose, which can be a year-round concern due to the constant dry weather and pollen. Furthermore, transitioning from a place with a moderate risk of tornadoes and floods to an area prone to earthquakes necessitates adjusting your emergency preparedness plans.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Memphis to San Jose
When planning a move from one city to another, it's vital to compare the financial aspects of each location. Understanding the differences in living costs and economic conditions will help you prepare for your new life. This comparison focuses on the financial distinctions between Memphis, TN, and San Jose, CA , highlighting key aspects such as income, taxes, and living expenses.
Comparison | Memphis | San Jose |
---|---|---|
Avg. Household Income | $44,317 | $126,377 |
Cost of Living Index | 88.2 | 156.1 |
State Income Tax | 0 | 9.3 (up to 13.3% for higher incomes) |
Avg. Property Tax | 1.97 | 0.78 |
Avg. Sales Tax | 9.25 | 9.25 |
Top 3 Industries | Transportation, Education, Healthcare | Technology, Manufacturing, Retail |
Affluence | Lower | High |
Poverty | Higher | Lower |
Homelessness | Visible | Notable |
The financial landscape between Memphis and San Jose offers stark contrasts. For instance, the average household income in San Jose is almost three times that of Memphis, reflecting the higher cost of living and the concentration of high-paying tech jobs in the area. Despite San Jose's higher affluence, both cities face challenges with homelessness, though the underlying causes and scales may differ. Furthermore, while Tennessee boasts a 0% state income tax, Californians in San Jose could see rates as high as 13.3% for higher incomes, a significant consideration for anyone moving. These disparities highlight the importance of understanding not just the cost of living but also the broader economic environment when moving across the country.
Memphis vs. San Jose Political & Religious Comparison
When considering a move from Memphis, TN to San Jose, CA, it's valuable to understand the communities you're transitioning between. This quick guide offers a snapshot to compare the politics between Memphis & San Jose , focusing on the political and religious makeup of each city, providing insights into the local culture you'll be stepping into.
Memphis | San Jose | |
---|---|---|
Political Make-up | Traditionally Democratic | Strongly Democratic |
Local Politics | Focus on social issues, economic development | Emphasis on tech, housing, and environmental policies |
Religion | Christian with a strong Protestant presence | Diverse; significant Catholic and non-religious communities |
Memphis and San Jose both lean Democratic, though San Jose shows a stronger inclination towards Democratic policies, reflective of California's overall political climate. While Memphis places a heavy emphasis on social issues and economic development within its local politics, San Jose's political conversation often revolves around technology, housing solutions, and green policies, indicative of the city's tech-centric culture and environmental values. Additionally, while Memphis has a marked Protestant Christian presence, San Jose boasts a more diverse religious landscape, with substantial Catholic and non-religious communities. This diversity is part and parcel of San Jose's cosmopolitan nature, influenced by its role as a global tech hub.
Memphis vs. San Jose Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Moving from Memphis, TN to San Jose, CA, it's crucial to understand the differences in daily commute experiences and traffic conditions. This comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Memphis & San Jose will help you better navigate your new city.
Comparison | Memphis | San Jose |
---|---|---|
Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 25 | 30 |
Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
Can you get by without car? | Difficult | Possible but challenging |
In Memphis, you may find the average commute time slightly shorter, making daily drives a bit less of a hassle compared to the bustling streets of San Jose. Traffic congestion in San Jose ranks higher, largely due to its denser population and tech-driven industries pulling commuters into the city. Public transit availability is better in San Jose, thanks to services like the VTA, which offers more comprehensive coverage than Memphis's options. Though getting by without a car in Memphis can be difficult due to limited public transit, San Jose offers a bit more flexibility. However, both cities present unique challenges for those accustomed to commuting by car.



Additional Resources
Memphis Moving Services
Popular Memphis to California Routes
Popular Moving Resources