Best Seattle to Oakland Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from Seattle to Oakland and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 802 mile move from Washington to California go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 35 Seattle to Oakland 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 $1,500 - $6,000 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Seattle compared to Oakland. 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 Seattle to Oakland Moving Companies
| Rank | Company Name | Rating  | Affordability Index | License | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | OCD Moving Services LLC | 9.66 | 9.47 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 2 | Seattle Moves & More | 9.54 | 9.39 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 3 | John Volken Academy Movers | 9.33 | 9.65 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 4 | People Movers | 9.16 | 9.54 | Authorized For Property | Contact |
| 5 | Fairprice Movers | 8.87 | 9.12 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
(800) 787-5428Cost to Move from Seattle to Oakland
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 802 miles from Seattle, WA to Oakland, CA will cost on average $2,463 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Seattle to Oakland move is roughly $5,911. 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 | $1,657 | 300 ft³ | 5.52 |
| 1 Bedroom | $2,463 | 450 ft³ | 5.47 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $4,068 | 750 ft³ | 5.42 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $5,911 | 1100 ft³ | 5.37 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $8,518 | 1600 ft³ | 5.32 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $9,493 | 1800 ft³ | 5.27 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Oakland to Seattle guide.
Compare the 5 Best Seattle to Oakland 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) |
Seattle Moves & More
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
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2962927 / 5796 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 1 |
| Registered Drivers | 5 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 31,000 (2023) |
John Volken Academy Movers
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
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2261169 / 1666977 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 6 |
| Registered Drivers | 8 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 200 (2015) |
People Movers
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
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2895681 / 1597195 Authorized For Property Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 2 |
| Registered Drivers | 2 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 25,000 (2023) |
Fairprice Movers
Berkeley, CA, 94720
About Fairprice Movers
Established in 2012, Fairprice Movers is a moving company headquartered in San Jose, California. The company offers a highly personalized moving...
Services
- Local Moving
- Long Distance Moving
- Commercial and Office Moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2192738 / 768242 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 5 |
| Registered Drivers | 3 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 89,000 (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.
Seattle vs. Oakland Neighborhood Comparison
Moving to a new city can be an exciting yet overwhelming journey, especially when it's hard to picture yourself in an unfamiliar place. To ease this transition, we've created a comparison of the local neighborhoods between Seattle, WA & Oakland, CA . This guide is designed to help you familiarize yourself with your new surroundings by linking the vibes and characteristics of Seattle neighborhoods to those in Oakland, providing a baseline for exploration.
| Seattle | Oakland | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Capitol Hill | Temescal | Vibrant cultural scene, lots of cafes and shops |
| Ballard | Rockridge | Family-friendly, great local eateries |
| Queen Anne | Piedmont | Upscale homes, beautiful parks |
| Fremont | Grand Lake | Eclectic, artsy vibe, farmers market |
| Greenwood | Montclair | Community feel, surrounded by nature |
| West Seattle | Alameda | Quiet, beach access, great views |
| South Lake Union | Emeryville | Tech hub, modern living spaces |
| Beacon Hill | Dimond District | Diverse community, green spaces |
| Central District | West Oakland | Rich historical background, evolving |
| University District | Downtown Oakland | Youthful, educational atmosphere |
If you've enjoyed the bustling, artsy streets of Capitol Hill, with its myriad of cafes, bars, and local boutiques, Oaklands' Temescal neighborhood will feel like home, offering a similarly vibrant cultural scene. For those attracted to the family-oriented and community vibe of Ballard, Rockridge in Oakland provides a charming array of local eateries nestled within its residential comfort. Meanwhile, Seattle's Fremont, known for its eclectic art scene and iconic Fremont Troll, aligns well with Oakland's Grand Lake for its artsy vibe and popular farmers market. And for lovers of Queen Anne's scenic views and affluent homes, Piedmont offers a tranquil retreat with its own stunning architecture and green spaces. Imagine visiting the Morcom Rose Garden or dining at the renowned Commis on Piedmont Avenue to really get a feel for what your new neighborhood can offer.
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Seattle to Oakland
Moving between cities is a journey of contrasting experiences and opportunities. This comparison aims to present an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of relocating from Seattle, WA to Oakland, CA . Through contrasting charts, we intend to highlight the shifts in lifestyle, climate, and culture, helping you make an informed decision about your move.
Seattle, WA- Higher cost of living
- Frequent rain
- Less diverse cuisine
- Heavier traffic
Oakland, CA- More affordable housing
- Sunnier days
- Rich culinary scene
- Easier commutes
Oakland, CA- Less greenery
- Fewer coffee shops
- Less tech opportunities
- Smaller music scene
Seattle, WA- Abundant green spaces
- Strong coffee culture
- Tech job hub
- Vibrant music scene
Moving to Oakland presents a unique blend of opportunities and challenges. The sunnier days in Oakland, contrasted with Seattle’s frequent rain, can be a boon for those craving more Vitamin D. The city is proud of its culinary diversity, with establishments like Brown Sugar Kitchen offering soul food that's hard to find in Seattle. Commuting might become less of a hassle, thanks to Oakland’s more navigable streets compared to Seattle’s notorious traffic. However, while Oakland invites with its rich cultural tapestry and more affordable living, it might fall short for green space lovers and tech professionals accustomed to Seattle’s lush parklands and booming tech scene. Each city has its unique charm, from Seattle's celebrated music scene to Oakland’s vibrant community events like those at First Fridays. Moving between these cities isn’t just a change of address, but a journey into a new way of life.
Seattle vs. Oakland Food Guide
This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Seattle & Oakland, emphasizing the importance of food in understanding local culture and living experiences. Whether you're a food enthusiast moving to a new city or just curious about the culinary differences, this guide offers a deeper insight into what awaits your palate.
| Seattle | Oakland | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Salmon | Burrito |
| Most popular meat dish | Dungeness Crab | BBQ Ribs |
| Most popular street food item | Hot Dogs | Tacos |
| Most popular vegan food | Quinoa Salad | Jackfruit Tacos |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
In Seattle, you might begin your food journey with a visit to Canlis for a high-end dining experience, or enjoy the lively atmosphere of The Pink Door, locating in the bustling Pike Place Market. Seattle's food scene is renowned for its fresh seafood, with salmon being a local staple. On the other hand, moving to Oakland introduces you to a vibrant street food culture, where tacos, particularly those made from jackfruit, showcase the city's innovative and diverse culinary landscape. Areas like Temescal are known for their booming foodie scene, housing establishments like Pizzaiolo that serve mouth-watering pizzas with locally sourced ingredients. Both cities offer a rich tableau for the food enthusiast, whether you lean towards health-conscious dining or indulging in the comfort of street food.
Seattle vs. Oakland Restaurant Comparison
When relocating from Seattle, WA to Oakland, CA, finding your new culinary favorites is key to feeling at home. This restaurant comparison will help you find new favorite eateries, with Seattle as your guide. Whether you favor high-end dining or cozy, casual bites, this guide bridges the gap between your current and future dining landscapes.
| Seattle | Oakland | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Canlis | Commis | Both offer a high-end dining experience with meticulously crafted tasting menus. |
| Pike Place Chowder | Rockridge Improvement Club | Known for their comforting bowls of chowder, reminiscent of Pike Place. |
| The Pink Door | Duende | Both restaurant personalities shine through their unique menus and vibrant atmospheres. |
| Taylor Shellfish Oyster Bar | Osmanthus | While it’s more Asian-inspired, it similarly prides itself on fresh seafood offerings. |
| Dick's Drive-In | TrueBurger | Both serve up classic, mouth-watering American burgers with a side of nostalgia. |
| The Walrus and the Carpenter | The Cook and Her Farmer | Emphasizes fresh oysters and shared plates in a welcoming environment. |
| Matt's in the Market | Wood Tavern | Offers a similarly warm, inviting place with a focus on local, seasonal fare. |
| Renee Erickson's Sea Creatures | Doña Tomas | Though more Mexican-inspired, this restaurant shares the dedication to quality ingredients and local sourcing. |
| Marination Ma Kai | Hawking Bird | Both offer a unique twist on casual dining with their fusion flavors and fun environments. |
| Mamnoon | Reem's | Provides a similarly deep dive into Middle Eastern cuisine with a powerful community-focused mission. |
In transitioning from the vibrant restaurant scene in Seattle to the equally dynamic and diverse culinary landscape of Oakland, you will find striking parallels that reflect the unique characteristics of each city. Commis in Oakland, akin to Canlis in Seattle, promises an exquisite Michelin-starred dining experience where each dish is a work of art, crafted to perfection. For those slow, comforting meals, Rockridge Improvement Club offers chowder bowls that speak to the soul, much like those at Pike Place Chowder. Meanwhile, fans of the eclectic and lively atmosphere of The Pink Door will find a kindred spirit in Duende, where the ambiance and menu are both vibrant and inviting. These establishments not only provide a bridge between two cities but also celebrate the distinct flavors and the communal experiences they bring to the table.
Ready to start your move?
Seattle vs. Oakland Real Estate & Living Facts
Real estate plays a crucial role when moving. Understanding how Seattle and Oakland compare in terms of housing costs, architecture, and lifestyle is vital for making an informed decision on your next move.
| Comparison | Seattle | Oakland |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Contemporary, Craftsman | Victorian, Craftsman |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Views, Eco-friendly | Diversity, Historic neighborhoods |
When considering a move from Seattle to Oakland, it's notable that both cities offer vibrant urban lifestyles, with Oakland edging slightly ahead in terms of walkability and bikeability. This could be crucial for those prioritizing a lifestyle with minimal car dependence. Oakland's slightly higher median home prices reflect its proximity to the San Francisco Bay Area’s booming job market and its diverse, historic neighborhoods, such as Temescal and Rockridge. Interestingly, Seattle home listings often highlight eco-friendly features and spectacular views, speaking to the city’s commitment to sustainability and its scenic Pacific Northwest setting. In contrast, Oakland listings tend to emphasize the city's rich diversity and history.
Seattle vs. Oakland Weather Considerations
Understanding how the weather compares between your current and future home is essential when relocating. This guide offers a comparative glimpse at the weather differences between Seattle, WA and Oakland, CA , aiming to prepare you for your move. Specifically, it highlights average temperatures, sunshine days, and natural disaster risks among other factors to help you adjust smoothly.
Seattle, WA
Oakland, CA
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Seattle, WA
Oakland, CA
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Seattle, WA
Oakland, CA
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Seattle, WA
Oakland, CA
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Seattle | Oakland |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Good | Moderate |
| Natural Disasters | Rain, Floods | Earthquakes, Wildfires |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
When moving from Seattle to Oakland, you’ll notice more sunny days and milder winters, a welcome change for many. However, this also comes with higher average UV indices in Oakland, making sunscreen more of a daily necessity. Despite similar levels of humidity, Oakland’s lower annual rainfall and absence of snow highlight a drier weather pattern. You'll also need to prepare for different natural disaster risks: while Seattle faces rain and floods, Oakland is more prone to earthquakes and wildfires. Understanding these changes can help you make necessary preparations and adjustments for a comfortable transition.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Seattle to Oakland
When considering a move from one city to another, understanding how your expenses and financial life will transform is crucial. This comparison will give you insight into the financial differences and similarities between Seattle, WA, and Oakland, CA, focusing on money and finance.
| Comparison | Seattle | Oakland |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $110,781 | $82,236 |
| Cost of Living Index | 121.4 | 139.1 |
| State Income Tax | 0 | 13.3 (max rate) |
| Avg. Property Tax | 0.99 | 0.73 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 10.1 | 9.25 |
| Top 3 Industries | Technology, Aerospace, Online Retail | Healthcare, Manufacturing, Transportation |
| Affluence | Moderately High | Moderate |
| Poverty | Moderate | High |
| Homelessness | High | Very High |
While both Seattle and Oakland are vibrant cities teeming with opportunity, they differ significantly in terms of financial and economic landscapes. For instance, despite Seattle having a higher average household income, it also grapples with a higher cost of living index, making daily expenses potentially steeper than in Oakland. The absence of state income tax in Washington provides a unique advantage for Seattle residents, versus California's steep progressive tax system. However, it's worth noting that Oakland offers a slightly lower sales tax, potentially easing some consumption expenses. These financial implications are critical to consider as they directly affect your quality of life and financial stability upon your move.
Seattle vs. Oakland Political & Religious Comparison
Exploring a new city encompasses understanding the people and their beliefs. This comparison provides a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents between Seattle & Oakland, offering insight into what you can expect from your new neighbors.
| Seattle | Oakland | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Liberal / Progressive | Liberal / Progressive |
| Local Politics | Democratic Dominance | Democratic Dominance |
| Religion | Less Religiously Affiliated | Diverse Religious Landscape |
Seattle and Oakland both boast a liberal and progressive political landscape, with the Democratic party holding a significant influence in local politics. This shared political makeup suggests you'll likely find communities advocating for similar values and social issues in both cities. However, when it comes to religious beliefs, there's a bit of divergence. Seattle presents a less religiously affiliated population overall, reflecting a broader trend across the Pacific Northwest. In contrast, Oakland offers a more diverse religious landscape, with a variety of faiths and places of worship, from Catholic churches to Islamic centers. This distinction might influence the community events and social fabric of the neighborhoods you explore.
Seattle vs. Oakland Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Moving from Seattle, WA to Oakland, CA presents a significant change in your daily commute and traffic experiences. This comparison of traffic and transportation options between Seattle & Oakland will help you understand what to expect in your new city.
| Comparison | Seattle | Oakland |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 28 | 31 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | Yes, but challenging | Yes |
While Seattle and Oakland both offer vibrant urban environments, they differ notably in commuting experiences. Seattle's slightly shorter average commute time contrasts with somewhat higher traffic congestion. However, both cities have invested in their public transportation systems, though Oakland boasts a higher availability rating, thanks in part to its integration with the wider Bay Area Transit systems. Living without a car is more feasible in Oakland given the city's compact nature and comprehensive public transit options. This could be a significant lifestyle change if you're used to relying on a car in Seattle, preparing you for a more accessible urban mobility experience in Oakland.
Additional Resources
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