Best Seattle to Fresno Movers + Moving Guide

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If you're moving from Seattle to Fresno and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 923 mile move from Washington to California go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 30 Seattle to Fresno 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 Seattle Moves & More), how much the move costs (approximately $1,500 - $6,000 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Seattle compared to Fresno. 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 Seattle to Fresno Moving Companies

RankCompany NameRating QuestionAffordability IndexLicenseContact
1Seattle Moves & More9.549.39Authorized For HHGContact
2John Volken Academy Movers9.339.65Authorized For HHGContact
3People Movers9.169.54Authorized For PropertyContact
4All In A Day Moving Services8.758.7Authorized For Property, HHGContact
5Pete's Moving Services LLC8.438.56Authorized For HHGContact
Phone (800) 787-5428

Cost to Move from Seattle to Fresno

Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 923 miles from Seattle, WA to Fresno, CA will cost on average $2,566 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Seattle to Fresno move is roughly $6,163. 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$1,726300 ft³5.75
1 Bedroom$2,566450 ft³5.70
2 Bedrooms$4,239750 ft³5.65
3 Bedrooms$6,1631100 ft³5.60
4 Bedrooms$8,8841600 ft³5.55
5+ Bedrooms$9,9051800 ft³5.50
*Please note: These Washington to California moving prices are rough approximations based upon nationwide data as well as local and statewide data from Washington & 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 WA to CA mover.
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Fresno to Seattle guide.

Compare the 5 Best Seattle to Fresno Movers

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

S

Seattle Moves & More

Exceptional9.54/10
based on 1,243+ data points

4601 Shilshole Ave NW

Seattle, WA, 98107

About Seattle Moves & More

Based in Seattle, Seattle Moves & More is a licensed, insured, and premier moving company in Seattle, WA, known for its...

Services

  • Residential & Commercial Moving
  • Long-Distance Relocation
  • Furniture Packing and Unpacking

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/10/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2962927 / 5796

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans1
Registered Drivers5
Total Annual Miles Moved31,000 (2023)
View Full Review
1
John Volken Academy Movers Logo

John Volken Academy Movers

Exceptional9.33/10
based on 1,571+ data points

921 Central Ave N

Kent, WA, 98032

About John Volken Academy Movers

John Volken Academy Movers is a not-for-profit moving company that helps people move across Western and Eastern Washington. This local business...

Services

  • Local Moving
  • Commercial Moving
  • Residential Moving

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/10/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2261169 / 1666977

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans6
Registered Drivers8
Total Annual Miles Moved200 (2015)
View Full Review
2
People Movers Logo

People Movers

Exceptional9.16/10
based on 3,624+ data points

11808 NE 160th St

Bothell, WA, 98011

About People Movers

People Movers is a fully licensed moving company in Bothell, WA. It has relocated hundreds of happy customers in Greater Seattle...

Services

  • Local moving
  • Long-distance moving
  • Cross-country moving

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2895681 / 1597195

Authorized For Property

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans2
Registered Drivers2
Total Annual Miles Moved25,000 (2023)
View Full Review
3
All In A Day Moving Services Logo

All In A Day Moving Services

Superb
claimed company icon
8.75/10
based on 914+ data points

1022 W 18th St #4

Merced, CA, 85340

About All In A Day Moving Services

All In A Day Moving Services promises to give you the smoothest and most stress-free moving experience. It’s a local moving...

Services

  • Local and long-distance moving
  • Piano moving
  • Packing services

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/10/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3861667 / 1410881

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans1
Registered Drivers2
Total Annual Miles Moved20,000 (2023)
View Full Review
4
Pete's Moving Services LLC Logo

Pete's Moving Services LLC

Fabulous8.43/10
based on 2,685+ data points

4807 Greenleaf Ct suite a

Modesto, CA, 95356

About Pete's Moving Services LLC

Founded in 2017, Pete's Moving Services LLC is a comprehensive door-to-door moving company specializing in residential, office, and commercial relocations in...

Services

  • Local Moving
  • Long Distance Moving
  • Office Moves

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 12/17/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3314910 / 1177987

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans3
Registered Drivers3
Total Annual Miles Moved10,000 (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.

Seattle vs. Fresno Neighborhood Comparison

Moving to a new city can be daunting, especially when you're not familiar with the local neighborhoods. To ease this transition, we've created a comparison of the local neighborhoods between Seattle, WA & Fresno, CA. This guide will help you find a new neighborhood in Fresno that feels like home, using your favorite Seattle neighborhood as a baseline.

SeattleFresnoHow They're Similar
Capitol HillTower DistrictArtsy, vibrant nightlife
BelltownDowntown FresnoUrban living, cultural hubs
BallardOld Fig GardenCharming, community-focused
Queen AnneWoodward ParkFamily-friendly, close to nature
GreenwoodSunnysideQuiet, suburban feel
FremontTower DistrictCreative, eclectic events
West SeattleVan Ness ExtensionSpacious, upscale homes
University DistrictFresno State AreaYoung, educational vibes
WallingfordFig Garden LoopWelcoming, family-oriented
Pioneer SquareDowntown FresnoHistoric buildings, art scene

If you're someone who enjoys the eclectic and vibrant arts scene of Capitol Hill, you'll find a similar vibe in Fresno's Tower District. With historic theaters like the Tower Theatre, numerous cafes, and lively nightlife, it's a cultural hub that mirrors Capitol Hill's unique charm. For those drawn to the upscale and residential feel of West Seattle, the Van Ness Extension offers spacious homes and a serene environment that prioritize comfort and luxury. And if you're moving from the university-filled environment of the University District, the Fresno State Area will welcome you with a youthful energy and educational opportunities, thanks to its proximity to California State University, Fresno. Each of these neighborhoods offers a slice of familiarity with the added excitement of exploring a new community's unique offerings.

Ready to start your move?

Pros and Cons of Moving from Seattle to Fresno

Making a big move from Seattle, WA to Fresno, CA requires understanding both the benefits and drawbacks. This guide offers a balanced look to help you make an informed decision. By comparing the pros and cons of leaving Seattle for Fresno, you'll get a clearer picture of what awaits in your new city.

CONs
PROs
Seattle, WA iconSeattle, WA
  • High Cost of Living
  • Frequent Rain
  • Traffic Congestion
  • Less Diversity
Fresno, CA iconFresno, CA
  • Lower Cost of Living
  • Sunnier Days
  • Less Traffic
  • More Agricultural Access
Fresno, CA iconFresno, CA
  • Smaller Job Market
  • Fewer Cultural Venues
  • Hotter Summers
  • Less Seafood Variety
Seattle, WA iconSeattle, WA
  • Vibrant Tech Scene
  • Rich Cultural Activities
  • Abundant Nature
  • Diverse Cuisine

Moving from Seattle to Fresno brings significant changes in lifestyle and opportunities. While you might miss Seattle's vibrant tech environment and rich cultural scene—embodied by places like the Museum of Pop Culture and Pike Place Market—you'll likely welcome Fresno's more manageable cost of living. Fresno boasts its unique attractions, such as the Fresno Chaffee Zoo and the abundant local produce that fuels its farmers' markets, like the well-loved River Park Farmers Market. Although summers can get notably hotter in Fresno compared to Seattle's mild climate, the increase in sunny days allows for more time spent exploring outdoor gems like Yosemite National Park, just a drive away. Both cities offer unique living experiences, and considering these facets can help determine if Fresno's lifestyle aligns with your desires.

Seattle vs. Fresno Food Guide

This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Seattle, WA & Fresno, CA, revealing the rich culinary traditions that contribute to the essence of living in these areas. Understanding the local food scene is crucial for getting a taste of your new home.

SeattleFresno
Most iconic local food itemSalmonGrapes
Most popular meat dishTeriyakiTri-tip
Most popular street food itemHot DogsTacos
Most popular vegan foodQuinoa SaladJackfruit Tacos
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
  • Canlis
  • Rover's (closed)
  • Matt's in the Market
  • The Annex Kitchen
  • Pismo's Coastal Grill
  • Sam Q's Soul Shack
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
Abundance of Food Trucks🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
Foodie Scene🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

In the shift from Seattle to Fresno, you'll transition from the seafood and tech-sophisticated environment of the Northwest to the agrarian-rich heartland of California. Seattle's iconic salmon and diverse array of street food options like gourmet hot dogs reflect its coastal, urban culture. In contrast, Fresno brings forth the agricultural prowess of the Central Valley with its iconic grapes and a strong street food culture highlighted by authentic Mexican tacos, thanks to its significant Mexican-American population. Notably, Fresno’s The Annex Kitchen and Pismo's Coastal Grill offer a glimpse into the local cuisine that emphasizes fresh, farm-to-table dining experiences, sourcing ingredients directly from the region's abundant agricultural output.

Seattle vs. Fresno Restaurant Comparison

Finding a place that feels like home is crucial when moving to a new city, and nothing says home like discovering your go-to eating spots. Whether you're craving the comfort of familiar flavors or eager to explore new culinary delights, understanding the restaurant scene is key. This comparison charts aim to ease the transition by highlighting equivalent dining experiences from Seattle, WA to Fresno, CA , making sure you can find your new favorite eateries seamlessly.

SeattleFresnoWhat You'll Love
The Pink DoorThe Annex KitchenItalian-inspired with a local twist
CanlisFleming’s Prime Steakhouse & Wine BarUpscale dining and fine wines
Pike Place ChowderPismo's Coastal GrillFresh seafood and casual atmosphere
Matt's in the MarketCracked Pepper BistroCreative, market-fresh menus
Salumi Artisan Cured MeatsSam's Italian Deli & MarketAuthentic deli with housemade specialties
Tarsan i JaneLimon Peruvian CuisineExotic flavors and innovative dishes
Ray's BoathouseWestwoods BBQ & Spice CoSeafood and meats with a smokey twist
MamnoonPhoenician Garden Mediterranean Bar and GrillMiddle Eastern dishes in a vibrant setting
Renee Erickson's Sea CreaturesTrelio RestaurantLocally sourced ingredients and inventive cuisine
JuneBabySouthern Hospitality CompanySouthern classics with a modern flair

While adjusting to a new city is always a challenge, finding places that offer a taste of home or stir your sense of culinary adventure can make the transition smoother. For seafood enthusiasts missing Pike Place Chowder, Pismo's Coastal Grill in Fresno brings the essence of fresh, coastal fare to the Central Valley. Similarly, the innovative and highly acclaimed JuneBaby finds its match in the Southern Hospitality Company, where the soulful flavors of the south shine through in every dish. And for those who appreciated the intimate, Italian charm of The Pink Door, The Annex Kitchen offers an experience that is both familiar and invigorating, highlighting the region's farm-to-table ingredients in every meticulously crafted plate. These establishments are more than just places to eat; they're landmarks in your new culinary journey, bridging the gap between Seattle and Fresno with every bite.

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Ready to start your move?

Seattle vs. Fresno Real Estate & Living Facts

Real estate significantly impacts your moving experience, making it crucial to understand how Seattle, WA and Fresno, CA compare in this regard. This comparison will illuminate key differences in housing costs, styles, and livability , guiding your transition.

ComparisonSeattleFresno
Typical Architecture StyleModern and CraftsmanRanch and Spanish
Walkability 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listingViews, Eco-friendlySpacious yards, Family-friendly neighborhoods

When moving from Seattle to Fresno, you'll find significant differences in housing costs and styles that could impact your decision. Seattle's housing market is considerably more expensive, both in terms of buying and renting, reflecting its vibrant urban lifestyle and high demand. The city's architecture often features modern and Craftsman styles, with homes frequently boasting views and eco-friendly amenities. While Seattle is highly walkable, particularly in its downtown and denser neighborhoods, Fresno offers its charm with more affordable housing options, featuring ranch and Spanish architectural styles. Fresno's housing market emphasizes spacious yards and family-friendly neighborhoods. The city's lifestyle, while more suburban and relaxed compared to Seattle's bustling urban environment, still offers decent bikeability and a growing emphasis on enhancing walkability in certain areas.

Seattle vs. Fresno Weather Considerations

When planning a move from one city to another, such as from Seattle, WA to Fresno, CA , understanding how the weather will differ in your new home is essential. This comparison will give you a clear idea of what to expect, ensuring you're well-prepared for the changes in climate.

Summer icon
75°F / 55°F

Seattle, WA

97°F / 66°F

Fresno, CA

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
47°F / 37°F

Seattle, WA

55°F / 38°F

Fresno, CA

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
37.5"

Seattle, WA

11.5"

Fresno, CA

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
4.6"

Seattle, WA

0"

Fresno, CA

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

ComparisonSeattleFresno
Air QualityGoodModerate
Natural DisastersEarthquakes, VolcanoesEarthquakes, Droughts
Days of Sunshine per Year☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. UV Index🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Avg. Annual Humidity💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦

Moving from Seattle to Fresno will present some significant changes in terms of climate. Seattle's milder summers and relatively cool winters will be replaced by Fresno's hot summers and mild winters. You'll experience far more sunny days in Fresno, a stark contrast to Seattle's reputation for cloudy skies. Also, preparing for different types of natural disasters is important, with Fresno facing higher risks of droughts. Although Fresno boasts more sunny days, its air quality and higher average UV index may require adjustments in your daily routine to protect your health.

Ready to start your move?

Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Seattle to Fresno

When planning a move from one city to another, comparing the cost of living and financial environment between Seattle and Fresno is crucial. This comparison will help you gauge how your financial situation may change and what to expect in terms of spending, saving, and living standards.

ComparisonSeattleFresno
Avg. Household Income$110,781$61,250
Cost of Living Index121.4117.3
State Income Tax013.3 (max)
Avg. Property Tax0.990.77
Avg. Sales Tax10.17.25
Top 3 IndustriesTechnology, Aerospace, HealthcareAgriculture, Healthcare, Education
AffluenceHighModerate
PovertyLowModerate
HomelessnessModerate to HighModerate

Moving from Seattle to Fresno, you'll notice a significant difference in the cost of living and overall financial climate. While Seattle boasts a higher average household income, it also comes with a higher cost of living, exacerbated by steep property and sales taxes. In contrast, Fresno offers a more moderate living cost, albeit with a lower average household income. The absence of a state income tax in Washington is a financial relief not present in California, where the maximum rate can reach 13.3%. Furthermore, the leading industries differ greatly between the two cities, reflecting their unique economic landscapes and opportunities. Understanding these differences will help you make informed financial decisions as you transition to your new home.

Seattle vs. Fresno Political & Religious Comparison

Considering a move from Seattle, WA, to Fresno, CA? It's important to get a feel for the new city. This comparison gives a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup between Seattle & Fresno, helping you understand what to expect from your future neighbors.

SeattleFresno
Political Make-upDemocratic-leaningModerately conservative
Local PoliticsProgressive policies, environmental focusMore balanced, agricultural and water rights are significant concerns
ReligionLess religiously affiliatedHigher religious affiliation, diverse religious communities

Moving from Seattle to Fresno, you will notice significant shifts in political and religious landscapes. Seattle's residents generally lean towards progressive policies, especially with a strong emphasis on environmental sustainability and social justice. In contrast, Fresno's local politics tend to be more balanced and deeply rooted in agricultural and water rights concerns due to its agricultural backdrop. Additionally, Fresno has a higher rate of religious affiliation, with a rich tapestry of religious communities, including Christian churches, Islamic centers, and Sikh gurdwaras. This contrast may offer you a fresh perspective and a diverse community to engage with.

Seattle vs. Fresno Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

When planning a move from Seattle, WA to Fresno, CA, understanding the nuances of your daily commute is crucial. This comparison will help you better grasp the differences in traffic and transportation options between Seattle & Fresno , enabling a smoother transition to your new lifestyle.

ComparisonSeattleFresno
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)27.322.1
Traffic Congestion 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦
Availability of Public Transit 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇
Can you get by without car?Yes, but it’s challengingDifficult

In Seattle, you might find that despite higher traffic congestion levels compared to Fresno, the availability of public transit offers a viable alternative to commuting by car. Seattle's network, including buses and the light rail, makes navigating the city feasible without a vehicle, though it may still present challenges depending on your exact location and destination. On the other hand, Fresno's lower traffic congestion seems inviting, but with limited public transit options, having a car is almost a necessity for efficient travel within the city. This juxtaposition highlights the importance of considering not just the time spent on the road, but also the availability and convenience of public transportation when planning your move.

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