Best Richmond to San Francisco Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from Richmond to San Francisco and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 2,881 mile move from Virginia to California go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 23 Richmond 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 OCD Moving Services LLC), how much the move costs (approximately $3,000 - $10,000 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Richmond 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 Richmond 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 | Bay - L.A. Express Moving | 9.32 | 9.49 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 3 | Estes SureMove | 9.21 | 9.68 | Authorized For Property | Contact |
| 4 | On The Fly Moving Guys, LLC - Richmond, VA | 9.19 | 9.58 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 5 | Two Men and a Truck | 8.96 | 8.87 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
(800) 787-5428Cost to Move from Richmond to San Francisco
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 2,881 miles from Richmond, VA to San Francisco, CA will cost on average $4,231 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Richmond to San Francisco move is roughly $10,233. 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 | $2,836 | 300 ft³ | 9.45 |
| 1 Bedroom | $4,231 | 450 ft³ | 9.40 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $7,015 | 750 ft³ | 9.35 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $10,233 | 1100 ft³ | 9.30 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $14,804 | 1600 ft³ | 9.25 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $16,565 | 1800 ft³ | 9.20 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from San Francisco to Richmond guide.
Compare the 5 Best Richmond 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) |
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) |
Estes SureMove
3901 W Broad St
Richmond, VA, 23230
About Estes SureMove
The most significant cause of stress when moving is the cost. Traditional full-service movers can take care of everything for you,...
Services
- Home moving
- Employee relocations
- Add-ons (such as same-day pickup)
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 121018 / 97275 Authorized For Property Carrier/Broker |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 9,075 |
| Registered Drivers | 8,573 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 586,187,648 (2023) |
On The Fly Moving Guys, LLC - Richmond, VA
424 E Grace St # 92
Richmond, VA, 23219
About On The Fly Moving Guys, LLC - Richmond, VA
On The Fly Moving Guys, LLC is a family-owned and operated moving company based in Richmond, VA. They provide local and...
Services
- Local Moving
- Moving Helpers
- Packing Services
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3865625 / 1413617 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 4 |
| Registered Drivers | 7 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 8,000 (2023) |
Two Men and a Truck
8403 Sanford Dr
Henrico, VA, 23228
About Two Men and a Truck
With over 30 years’ experience and 350 locations worldwide, Two Men and a Truck is a trusted name in the moving...
Services
- Local moving
- Junk removal
- Storage
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2988823 / 17957 Authorized For Property, HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 6 |
| Registered Drivers | 7 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 115,000 (2023) |
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.
Richmond vs. San Francisco Neighborhood Comparison
When considering a move from one city to another, understanding the local neighborhoods can offer a sense of familiarity and comfort during the transition. This guide aims to help you familiarize yourself with an unknown city by using Richmond, VA & San Francisco, CA as a baseline comparison of the local neighborhoods .
| Richmond | San Francisco | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| The Fan | The Mission | Vibrant, diverse cultural scene |
| Church Hill | Haight-Ashbury | Historic homes, artistic vibe |
| Carytown | Hayes Valley | Boutique shops, trendy eateries |
| Scott's Addition | SOMA | Trendy breweries, industrial chic |
| Shockoe Bottom | North Beach | Lively nightlife, historic charm |
| Ginter Park | Presidio Heights | Upscale, serene residential area |
| Short Pump | Marina District | Upscale shopping, family-friendly |
| West End | Inner Richmond | Diverse dining, residential calm |
| Museum District | Golden Gate Park | Rich in culture and green space |
| Jackson Ward | Fillmore District | Historical significance, music scene |
Richmond and San Francisco, though miles apart, share a vibrant cultural tapestry reflected in their neighborhoods. If you enjoy the boutique shops and trendy restaurants of Carytown, you'll find Hayes Valley's charming boutiques and innovative eateries like Zuni Café an exciting West Coast counterpart. For those drawn to the historic and artistic atmosphere of Church Hill, the Haight-Ashbury district, with its colorful Victorian homes, iconic history, and places like Amoeba Music, encapsulates a similar bohemian spirit. Similarly, if the industrial chic and burgeoning brewery scene of Scott's Addition are to your liking, the South of Market (SOMA) area in San Francisco offers an urban canvas of tech spaces, loft apartments, and venues like SFMOMA that cater to a contemporary lifestyle amidst historical architectural landmarks.
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Richmond to San Francisco
Moving from one city to another is a significant life decision that requires a thorough consideration of various factors. This comparison aims to reflect the honest qualities of relocating from Richmond, VA to San Francisco, CA , highlighting both the appealing and challenging aspects of such a transition. Understanding the pros and cons associated with this move can help make an informed decision and set realistic expectations.
Richmond, VA- Lower job opportunities
- Smaller cultural scene
- Less public transit
- Humid summers
San Francisco, CA- Tech industry hub
- Vibrant cultural diversity
- Extensive public transit
- Mild climate
San Francisco, CA- High living costs
- Lesser historical sites
- Urban landscape
- Fast-paced lifestyle
Richmond, VA- Lower cost of living
- Historic charm
- Lush green spaces
- Community feel
Moving from Richmond to San Francisco introduces a significant lifestyle change, especially considering the bustling tech scene and the vibrant cultural diversity San Francisco boasts. You'll find yourself immersed in a melting pot of arts, music, and food, with neighborhoods like the Mission District offering a plethora of dining options such as La Taqueria for some of the city's best burritos. Meanwhile, green spaces may seem limited compared to Richmond, but parks such as Golden Gate Park provide vast expanses for recreation and relaxation amidst the urban landscape. The shift in living costs might be daunting; however, the professional opportunities, especially in tech and finance, are unparalleled, potentially offsetting the higher expenses with higher wages. In essence, the move is a step into a dynamic urban environment filled with opportunities and experiences distinct from the historical charm and community feel of Richmond.
Richmond vs. San Francisco Food Guide
This comparison of the local cuisine between Richmond & San Francisco aims to shine a light on the diverse culinary landscapes awaiting you. Recognizing food as a vibrant part of local culture, this overview will help you understand what culinary delights lie in your new home city.
| Richmond | San Francisco | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Virginia Ham | Sourdough Bread |
| Most popular meat dish | Pulled Pork BBQ | CIoppino |
| Most popular street food item | Food Truck Tacos | Mission Burrito |
| Most popular vegan food | Jackfruit BBQ | Avocado Toast |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
In Richmond, you'll find a strong sense of tradition in dishes like Virginia Ham and Pulled Pork BBQ, while San Francisco prides itself on innovative culinary practices, exemplified by its world-famous Sourdough Bread and Cioppino. San Francisco's Mission District is a must-visit for foodies, notably for its iconic Mission Burrito. For those exploring the vegan scene, Richmond's innovative use of jackfruit in BBQ dishes offers a unique twist, whereas in San Francisco, the humble Avocado Toast has become an emblem of the city's health-conscious ethos. Notably, San Francisco's Tartine Bakery and Swan Oyster Depot offer a quintessential taste of the city's diverse culinary landscape, reflecting its high foodie scene score.
Richmond vs. San Francisco Restaurant Comparison
Deciding where to dine out can significantly influence how quickly you feel at home in a new city. This restaurant comparison chart aims to ease the transition from Richmond to San Francisco, guiding you towards discovering your next go-to dining spots that mirror your current favorites.
| Richmond | San Francisco | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| L’Opossum | Gary Danko | Both offer a refined dining experience with unique, flavorful dishes. |
| Mama J’s Kitchen | Brenda’s French Soul Food | Celebrating comfort food with a soulful twist at both venues. |
| Edo’s Squid | Delfina | Italian culinary delights with an emphasis on fresh seafood in both kitchens. |
| The Roosevelt | Foreign Cinema | Both combine excellent cuisine with a unique dining atmosphere. |
| Stella’s | Kokkari Estiatorio | Authentic and passionately prepared Greek food reigns supreme at both. |
| Joe’s Inn | Zazie | Homely vibes and hearty meals make both spots beloved local brunch choices. |
| Lehja | Dosa | Both are known for their innovative and traditional takes on Indian cuisine. |
| Perly’s | Wise Sons Jewish Delicatessen | Offering comforting, classic Jewish deli favorites. |
| ZZQ Texas Craft Barbeque | 4505 Burgers & BBQ | Both sanctuaries for high-quality, slow-smoked BBQ enthusiasts. |
| Sally Bell’s Kitchen | Tartine Bakery | Both have a long-standing tradition of baking excellence and comfort food. |
Transitioning from the cozy, innovative culinary scene of Richmond to the vast, diverse gastronomic landscape of San Francisco offers an exciting journey of flavors. For instance, L'Opossum's unique charm and exquisite dishes find a counterpart in Gary Danko's luxurious setting and refined menu. Fans of Mama J's Kitchen won't miss a beat at Brenda's French Soul Food, where comfort meets soul in every bite, highlighting the shared value of hearty, comforting meals. Similarly, Joe's Inn's homely ambiance and classic comfort food are mirrored in Zazie's warm, inviting atmosphere, promising a seamless transition for those morning brunch rituals. This guide not only introduces you to San Francisco's culinary gems but reassures that the soul-nourishing experiences you cherished in Richmond can be found anew.
Ready to start your move?
Richmond vs. San Francisco Real Estate & Living Facts
Real estate significantly impacts any relocation journey. Understanding the nuances between Richmond, VA, and San Francisco, CA's housing landscapes can greatly inform your decision-making. This comparison aims to highlight the aspects that often influence where you'll call home next.
| Comparison | Richmond | San Francisco |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Colonial Revival | Victorian & Modern |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Spacious backyards, hardwood floors | Panoramic views, rooftop decks |
The disparities in housing costs between Richmond and San Francisco are stark, reflecting a broader difference in the cost of living and lifestyle. Richmond offers a more traditional setting, often highlighting Colonial Revival-style homes and featuring spacious backyards perfect for those looking for a touch of nature. On the other hand, San Francisco's premium is on its unique Victorian and modern architecture, with real estate listings frequently boasting of panoramic views and inviting rooftop decks, appealing to those who prioritize urban living and proximity to the metropolitan buzz. Additionally, the high walkability and bikeability scores in San Francisco contrast with Richmond's, indicating a more sustainable and active lifestyle within a dense urban environment.
Richmond vs. San Francisco Weather Considerations
Moving from one city to another can significantly alter your day-to-day life, especially when it comes to the weather. Understanding how the climate in San Francisco will compare to what you're accustomed to in Richmond is crucial for a smooth transition. This comparison aims to highlight the key differences and similarities to expect.
Richmond, VA
San Francisco, CA
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Richmond, VA
San Francisco, CA
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Richmond, VA
San Francisco, CA
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Richmond, VA
San Francisco, CA
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Richmond | San Francisco |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Moderate | Good |
| Natural Disasters | Hurricanes, Tornadoes | Earthquakes, Wildfires |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
When moving from Richmond to San Francisco, you'll notice a significant difference in temperature ranges, especially during the summer months where Richmond experiences hotter days. San Francisco's coastal climate ensures milder temperatures year-round, but the city also sees more fog, which can affect those with certain allergies differently than Richmond's pollen-heavy air. Additionally, while Richmond may have moderately good air quality, San Francisco generally enjoys better air conditions, contributing to a healthier lifestyle. However, it's important to note the potential for natural disasters shifts from hurricanes and tornadoes in Richmond to earthquakes and wildfires in San Francisco, impacting emergency preparedness plans.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Richmond to San Francisco
When considering a move from one city to another, it's crucial to understand how the cost of living, income, and taxes in Richmond compare to those in San Francisco. This comparison will help you gauge the financial adjustments you'll need to make.
| Comparison | Richmond | San Francisco |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $51,770 | $121,826 |
| Cost of Living Index | 104.5 | 164 |
| State Income Tax | 5.75 | 13.3 |
| Avg. Property Tax | 0.80 | 0.73 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 5.3 | 8.5 |
| Top 3 Industries | Government, Finance, Education | Technology, Finance, Tourism |
| Affluence | Moderate | High |
| Poverty | Moderate | Lower |
| Homelessness | Lower | Higher |
The significant difference in average household income between Richmond and San Francisco reflects the diverging cost of living in these two cities. While San Francisco boasts a much higher income, it is offset by its exceptionally high cost of living and state income tax rates, the highest in the country. Despite a lower average property tax rate in San Francisco, the city's real estate market is one of the most expensive, significantly impacting overall affordability. Moreover, San Francisco's tech-driven economy offers vast employment opportunities but also contributes to its high affluence and homelessness rates, highlighting the city's economic disparities.
Richmond vs. San Francisco Political & Religious Comparison
In preparing for your move from Richmond, VA to San Francisco, CA, it's useful to understand the communities you're transitioning between. Here's a comparison of the politics and religious climate between Richmond & San Francisco . This snapshot will give you a quick understanding of the local cultures you'll be engaging with.
| Richmond | San Francisco | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Leans Democratic | Strongly Democratic |
| Local Politics | City of Richmond Government | City and County of San Francisco Government |
| Religion | Diverse; Christianity dominant | Diverse; less religious overall |
When moving from Richmond to San Francisco, you'll find that both cities treasure diversity, but display it in different ways. Richmond, while leaning Democratic, maintains a rich tapestry of beliefs with a noticeably dominant Christian community. In contrast, San Francisco is known for its strong Democratic stance and is less religious overall, reflecting a more secular lifestyle. The political engagement in San Francisco tends to be more visible, with local governance playing a significant role in daily life, much like Richmond, though the issues and policies at the forefront can greatly differ. Understanding these dynamics can help you acclimate more smoothly to your new home.
Richmond vs. San Francisco Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Moving from Richmond, VA to San Francisco, CA brings a transition in how you'll manage your daily commutes and navigate traffic and transportation options. This comparison aims to give you a clear understanding of the differences you'll encounter, helping you adapt to your new city smoothly.
| Comparison | Richmond | San Francisco |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 25 | 34 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | Challenging | Yes |
In Richmond, while the average commute time is shorter, the city's reliance on cars is higher due to less robust public transit options compared to San Francisco. San Francisco, on the other hand, sees higher traffic congestion but offers a more comprehensive public transportation system with SFMTA services including buses, light rail (Muni), and cable cars, making it easier to navigate the city without a personal vehicle. The possibility of living comfortably in San Francisco without owning a car is a significant advantage for those looking to reduce their carbon footprint or avoid the costs associated with vehicle ownership.
Additional Resources
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