Best Austin to San Francisco Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from Austin to San Francisco and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 1,823 mile move from Texas to California go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 26 Austin to San Francisco 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 $2,000 - $8,000 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Austin 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 Austin to San Francisco Moving Companies
| Rank | Company Name | Rating  | Affordability Index | License | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | OCD Moving Services LLC | 9.66 | 9.47 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 2 | MoverTron Moving | 9.44 | 9.52 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 3 | Bay - L.A. Express Moving | 9.32 | 9.49 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 4 | Heavenly Moving and Storage | 9.29 | 9.38 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 5 | Amen Moving | 9.20 | 9.52 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
(800) 787-5428Cost to Move from Austin to San Francisco
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 1,823 miles from Austin, TX to San Francisco, CA will cost on average $3,331 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Austin to San Francisco move is roughly $8,034. 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 | $2,236 | 300 ft³ | 7.45 |
| 1 Bedroom | $3,331 | 450 ft³ | 7.40 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $5,515 | 750 ft³ | 7.35 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $8,034 | 1100 ft³ | 7.30 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $11,605 | 1600 ft³ | 7.25 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $12,966 | 1800 ft³ | 7.20 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from San Francisco to Austin guide.
Compare the 5 Best Austin to San Francisco 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) |
MoverTron Moving
Briarcliff, TX, 78669
Services
- Local Moving
- Residential Moving
- Long-Distance Moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 4135479 / 1584479 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 2 |
| Registered Drivers | 2 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | - |
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) |
Heavenly Moving and Storage
This listing has been claimed by Heavenly Moving and Storage9311 N Fm 620
Austin, TX, 78726
About Heavenly Moving and Storage
Heavenly Moving and Storage has been one of Austin’s premier moving companies since 2005. This locally-owned moving company provides high-quality packing...
Services
- Local moving
- Long-distance moving
- Full-service packing
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3429695 / 1110864 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 12 |
| Registered Drivers | 10 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 250,000 (2021) |
Amen Moving
Volente, TX, 78726
About Amen Moving
Amen Moving is a professional moving company based in Austin, TX. The company specializes in out of state moving and packing...
Services
- Out of state moving services
- Packing services
- Office moving services
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3119927 / 87368 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 1 |
| Registered Drivers | 1 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 220,000 (2024) |
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.
Austin vs. San Francisco Neighborhood Comparison
Moving can feel like a step into the unknown, especially when it’s to a new city. To ease the transition, we’ve compared popular neighborhoods in Austin, TX with their closest counterparts in San Francisco, CA . This guide will help you match the vibe and amenities of your current Austin neighborhood to your new San Francisco locale, making the Bay Area feel like home in no time.
| Austin | San Francisco | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| South Congress | Hayes Valley | Vibrant shopping, dining scene |
| Travis Heights | Mission District | Diverse, artsy community |
| Tarrytown | Pacific Heights | Upscale homes, bay views |
| East Austin | Mission District | Rich cultural history, dynamic eateries |
| Hyde Park | Haight-Ashbury | Historic homes, eclectic shops |
| Barton Hills | The Castro | Vibrant, community-centric with parks |
| Zilker | Dolores Park | Outdoor activities, lively atmosphere |
| Cherrywood | Nob Hill | Quiet, small-town feel in the city |
| Mueller | Presidio Heights | Family-friendly, open spaces |
| Clarksville | North Beach | Historic vibes, rich in cafes and culture |
If you’re moving from the lively South Congress area in Austin, known for its bustling shopping and dining scene, you'll find a similar vibe in Hayes Valley with its trendy boutiques and hip coffee shops like Ritual Coffee Roasters. Conversely, the tranquil leafiness of Tarrytown has its match in Pacific Heights, offering strolls with stunning Bay views and heritage homes. For the culturally rich and diverse atmosphere of East Austin, the Mission District stands out in San Francisco with its mural-lined streets, like those found on Clarion Alley, and a broad range of eateries from classic Mexican taquerias to modern fusion restaurants. Finally, if you enjoy the outdoor lifestyle of Zilker with access to green spaces and events, Dolores Park in San Francisco provides a similar community feel with panoramic city views, making it a favorite spot for picnics and social gatherings.
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Austin to San Francisco
Moving from Austin, TX to San Francisco, CA presents a unique opportunity to weigh distinct lifestyle shifts. This comparison will provide an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of relocating from Austin, TX to San Francisco, CA , helping you make an informed decision about this significant change.
Austin, TX- Hot summers
- Less tech jobs
- Smaller cultural scene
- Lower walkability
San Francisco, CA- Cooler climate
- More tech opportunities
- Vibrant cultural diversity
- High walkability
San Francisco, CA- Higher cost of living
- Denser population
- Smaller spaces
- Faster pace
Austin, TX- Lower cost of living
- Friendly locals
- Spacious living
- Laid-back lifestyle
While the relocation from Austin to San Francisco may introduce you to a cooler climate and a booming tech scene, it's essential to also acknowledge factors like the high cost of living in San Francisco. However, the cultural tapestry of neighborhoods like the Mission District, with its vibrant murals, and the gastronomic haven that is North Beach, known for its authentic Italian restaurants such as Tony’s Pizza Napoletana, enrich the experience of living in San Francisco. Moreover, the proximity to iconic sights such as the Golden Gate Bridge and natural wonders like Muir Woods National Monument provides an unmatched quality of life, despite the smaller living spaces and faster pace. Weighing these factors will help you decide if this city's dynamic ecosystem aligns with your lifestyle aspirations.
Austin vs. San Francisco Food Guide
Food deeply enriches our understanding of local culture and what day-to-day life is like in any area. To help you transition smoothly, we've outlined a comparison of the local cuisine between Austin & San Francisco, offering insight into each city's food scene you're moving into or from.
| Austin | San Francisco | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Brisket BBQ | Sourdough Bread |
| Most popular meat dish | Texas-style BBQ | Cioppino |
| Most popular street food item | Tacos | Mission Burritos |
| Most popular vegan food | BBQ Jackfruit | Vegan Ramen |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
In Austin, when it comes to a meat lover's paradise, nothing beats the slow-cooked, smoky flavors found in their revered BBQ joints, particularly the brisket which is a local staple. Among the most celebrated is Franklin Barbecue, known for long lines and legendary eats. Alternatively, San Francisco offers a diverse and health-conscious culinary scene, best illustrated by its famous sourdough bread and the seafood stew, Cioppino, found in historic eateries like Swan Oyster Depot. For vegans, San Francisco's innovative plant-based cuisine is showcased in dishes like vegan ramen from numerous eateries throughout the city, reflecting its higher vegan-friendly score. Both cities boast vibrant food truck scenes, but Austin's slightly edges out with a wider variety, especially for taco enthusiasts exploring the streets of South Congress or East Austin.
Austin vs. San Francisco Restaurant Comparison
Relocating isn't just about finding a new place to live; it's about discovering where you'll enjoy eating out and feeling at home. This restaurant comparison aims to ease your move from Austin to San Francisco, guiding you to your new favorite spots based on what you already love. This comparison chart helps you find equivalent restaurants from Austin to San Francisco, making the transition tastier and more familiar.
| Austin | San Francisco | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Franklin Barbecue | 4505 Burgers & BBQ | Similar dedication to high-quality smoked meats |
| Uchi | UMA Casa | Exceptional take on unique and traditional dishes |
| Torchy's Tacos | La Taqueria | Famous for their mission-style burritos, akin to Torchy's innovative tacos |
| Matt's El Rancho | Nopalito | Authentic Mexican cuisine focusing on organic ingredients |
| Home Slice Pizza | Tony’s Pizza Napoletana | Hand-tossed authentic Italian pies |
| Odd Duck | State Bird Provisions | Both offer innovative, locally sourced small plates |
| Kemuri Tatsu-ya | Izakaya Rintaro | Combines traditional izakaya and Texas smokehouse flavors |
| Sway | Hawker Fare | Asian cuisine with a unique, fiery twist |
| Veracruz All Natural | El Buen Comer | Homestyle Mexican food that highlights traditional flavors |
| Barley Swine | Lazy Bear | Both are known for their seasonal and experimental tasting menus |
For those who have relished the distinctive flavors at Kemuri Tatsu-ya in Austin, Izakaya Rintaro in San Francisco awaits to mesmerize you with a seamless blend of traditional Japanese izakaya fare with hints of Californian flair, reflecting the innovative spirit of Kemuri Tatsu-ya's Texas-inspired Japanese dishes. If your taste buds have been enchanted by the eclectic mix of local ingredients at Odd Duck, you'll find a kindred spirit in State Bird Provisions, where the adventurous small plates promise an equally thrilling culinary journey. And for aficionados of authentic Mexican cuisine missing the bold flavors of Veracruz All Natural, El Buen Comer in San Francisco serves up homestyle dishes that pay homage to the rich culinary traditions of Mexico, welcoming you with the warmth and comfort of familiar flavors in your new city.
Ready to start your move?
Austin vs. San Francisco Real Estate & Living Facts
Understanding the real estate market is crucial when moving from one city to another. In this comparison, we’ll examine how Austin, TX, and San Francisco, CA stack up in terms of housing costs, styles, and living qualities . Knowing these differences will help you make an informed decision about your relocation.
| Comparison | Austin | San Francisco |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Modern and Ranch | Victorian and Modern |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Open floor plans, outdoor living | Views, proximity to amenities |
In comparing Austin and San Francisco, we see remarkable differences, especially in housing costs. While Austin offers a modern and ranch architectural vibe with a more accessible housing market, San Francisco stands out with its iconic Victorian homes and steep prices. The city's high walkability, bikeability, and urban lifestyle scores reflect San Francisco's dense, vibrant nature. Properties in San Francisco often highlight breathtaking views and easy access to city amenities like SFMOMA or Golden Gate Park, signaling a premium on location and lifestyle that's less emphasized in Austin's listings, where open floor plans and outdoor spaces cater to a desire for spaciousness and connection with nature.
Austin vs. San Francisco Weather Considerations
When planning a move from one city to another, understanding the weather differences is crucial for a smooth transition. In this guide, we compare the climates of Austin, TX, and San Francisco, CA to help you anticipate how your day-to-day life will change.
Austin, TX
San Francisco, CA
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Austin, TX
San Francisco, CA
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Austin, TX
San Francisco, CA
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Austin, TX
San Francisco, CA
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Austin | San Francisco |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Moderate | Good |
| Natural Disasters | Heatwaves, Droughts | Earthquakes, Fog |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
Relocating from Austin to San Francisco, you'll encounter a cooler, more temperate climate, especially during the summer months where the high averages are significantly lower in San Francisco. The humidity in San Francisco is slightly higher, attributable to its coastal location, but this is balanced by its overall better air quality. Natural disaster risks shift from heatwaves and droughts to earthquakes, requiring different preparedness. Understanding these changes will help you adjust more seamlessly to your new environment.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Austin to San Francisco
When moving from one city to another, it's crucial to understand how the cost of living and financial environment in Austin compares to San Francisco. This comparison can guide you in budgeting and financial planning for your move.
| Comparison | Austin | San Francisco |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $79,542 | $121,826 |
| Cost of Living Index | 95.5 | 164 |
| State Income Tax | 0% | 13.3% |
| Avg. Property Tax | 1.9% | 0.76% |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 8.25% | 8.5% |
| Top 3 Industries | Technology, Education, Health Services | Technology, Finance, Tourism |
| Affluence | Moderate | High |
| Poverty | Moderate | Low |
| Homelessness | Noticeable | Significant |
The financial and economic landscapes of Austin and San Francisco present sharp contrasts that are important for potential movers to consider. For instance, while Austin offers a more favorable average property tax rate, San Francisco's significantly higher average household income reflects its thriving economy and affluence. However, this comes with a much higher cost of living, driven in part by the city's robust real estate market and high demand for housing. The difference in state income tax rates further highlights the financial adjustments needed when relocating. Understanding these differences can help you establish realistic expectations and prepare accordingly for the economic realities of your new home.
Austin vs. San Francisco Political & Religious Comparison
In this brief overview, we’re drawing a quick snapshot to understand the comparison of the politics and religious landscapes between Austin & San Francisco . This comparison aims to offer a glance at the core beliefs that shape the day-to-day and broader community philosophies in these vibrant cities.
| Austin | San Francisco | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Liberal leaning with a mix of conservative pockets | Strongly liberal and progressive |
| Local Politics | Active engagement in state and local issues, City of Austin | Highly politically active, with a focus on progressive issues, City of San Francisco |
| Religion | Variety of religious beliefs with a significant number of non-affiliates | Pluralistic, with a significant portion of the population identifying as non-religious |
While both Austin and San Francisco share a liberal inclination, the nuances in their political and religious makeups provide a rich tapestry that defines each city's unique culture. Austin presents a fascinating blend, harboring a more diverse political environment within Texas, balancing liberal perspectives with conservative ones. In contrast, San Francisco is renowned for its strongly liberal stance and activism on progressive issues, making it a hub for advocacy and change. The religious landscape in both cities reflects a broader trend toward a pluralistic society, with a noticeable tilt towards non-affiliation, highlighting the secular nature of societal values and community life in these urban settings.
Austin vs. San Francisco Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Moving from Austin, TX to San Francisco, CA, entails navigating a whole new world of daily commutes and traffic jams. This comparison between Austin & San Francisco is designed to help you better understand what your daily commute and traffic is like.
| Comparison | Austin | San Francisco |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 26 | 34 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | Challenging | Easier |
While Austin offers a relatively shorter average commute time, it struggles with significant traffic congestion, with its public transit options lagging behind those of San Francisco. San Francisco, despite having higher traffic congestion, boasts an extensive public transit network, making it considerably easier to navigate without a car. The city's emphasis on bus lines, the BART, and other transit options contribute to this ease. Ultimately, your choice between the two may hinge on your willingness to embrace public transit over personal car use.
Additional Resources
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