Best Seattle to Santa Rosa Movers + Moving Guide

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If you're moving from Seattle to Santa Rosa and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 786 mile move from Washington to California go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 35 Seattle to Santa Rosa 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 $1,500 - $6,000 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Seattle compared to Santa Rosa. 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 Santa Rosa Moving Companies

RankCompany NameRating QuestionAffordability IndexLicenseContact
1OCD Moving Services LLC9.669.47Authorized For HHGContact
2Seattle Moves & More9.549.39Authorized For HHGContact
3Celis Movers9.379.32Authorized For HHGContact
4John Volken Academy Movers9.339.65Authorized For HHGContact
5People Movers9.169.54Authorized For PropertyContact
Phone (800) 787-5428

Cost to Move from Seattle to Santa Rosa

Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 786 miles from Seattle, WA to Santa Rosa, CA will cost on average $2,450 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Seattle to Santa Rosa move is roughly $5,878. 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$1,648300 ft³5.49
1 Bedroom$2,450450 ft³5.44
2 Bedrooms$4,045750 ft³5.39
3 Bedrooms$5,8781100 ft³5.34
4 Bedrooms$8,4701600 ft³5.29
5+ Bedrooms$9,4391800 ft³5.24
*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 Santa Rosa to Seattle guide.

Compare the 5 Best Seattle to Santa Rosa Movers

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

OCD Moving Services LLC Logo

OCD Moving Services LLC

Exceptional9.66/10
based on 3,273+ data points

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

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2597230 / 911812

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans6
Registered Drivers6
Total Annual Miles Moved153,000 (2022)
View Full Review
1
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
2
Celis Movers Logo

Celis Movers

Exceptional9.37/10
based on 1,982+ data points

601 Petaluma Blvd N C

Petaluma, CA, 94952

About Celis Movers

Celis Movers is a family-owned Petaluma business committed to providing quality moves that don’t break the bank. For over 30 years,...

Services

  • Local moving services
  • Nationwide moving services
  • Strategic warehousing locations

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2594954 / 921948

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans6
Registered Drivers4
Total Annual Miles Moved95,000 (2023)
View Full Review
3
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
4
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
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. Santa Rosa Neighborhood Comparison

When considering a move, understanding the nuances of your new environment can ease the transition. This guide aims to help you familiarize yourself with an unfamiliar city by using what you know about your current city as a baseline. We'll compare local neighborhoods between Seattle, WA & Santa Rosa, CA to match you with a new neighborhood that feels like home.

SeattleSanta RosaHow They're Similar
BallardMontgomery VillageVibrant shopping & dining
Capitol HillDowntown Santa RosaCulturally rich, diverse community
Queen AnneProctor TerraceHistoric homes, quiet atmosphere
FremontRailroad SquareArtsy and eclectic vibes
GreenwoodJunior College NeighborhoodFamily-friendly, peaceful
West SeattleBennett ValleyStrong sense of community, scenic views
Phinney RidgeMontecito HeightsQuiet residential area, nature access
WallingfordAnnadelBustling with cafes and local shops
Beacon HillRoselandDiverse community with rich cultural heritage
MagnoliaFountain GroveUpscale, serene landscapes

If you adore the artsy and eclectic ambiance of Fremont with its iconic statue of Lenin and the Fremont Troll, you'll find a kindred spirit in Railroad Square, where historic buildings house unique shops and cozy cafes. Capitol Hill's rich cultural diversity and bustling nightlife have a counterpart in Downtown Santa Rosa, offering a mosaic of dining, entertainment, and cultural venues, such as the Luther Burbank Center for the Arts. For those who appreciate the historic and upscale charm of Queen Anne, Proctor Terrace offers a peaceful setting with beautifully preserved homes and easy access to amenities. This guide brings to light the shared qualities between these communities, making your transition to Santa Rosa a journey of delightful discoveries.

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Pros and Cons of Moving from Seattle to Santa Rosa

Moving from one city to another is a major decision that involves considering both the negatives and positives of the transition. This comparison aims to provide an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes when relocating from Seattle, WA to Santa Rosa, CA . The following charts compare the pros and cons directly, helping you make an informed decision on your move.

CONs
PROs
Seattle, WA iconSeattle, WA
  • Higher rainfall
  • High cost of living
  • Heavy traffic
  • Less outdoor activities
Santa Rosa, CA iconSanta Rosa, CA
  • More sunny days
  • Lower housing costs
  • Less congestion
  • More vineyards/wineries
Santa Rosa, CA iconSanta Rosa, CA
  • Smaller music scene
  • Fewer tech opportunities
  • Less diversity
  • Smaller parks
Seattle, WA iconSeattle, WA
  • Lively music scene
  • Abundant tech jobs
  • Rich cultural diversity
  • Vast public parks

While evaluating the pros and cons of moving from Seattle to Santa Rosa, it becomes apparent that there are trade-offs. For instance, you might miss the vibrant music scene of Seattle, featuring historic venues like the Neptune Theatre, but you will get to enjoy the renowned Kendall-Jackson Wine Estate & Gardens in Santa Rosa. Though Seattle is known for its lush public parks such as the vast Discovery Park, Santa Rosa offers charming neighborhood parks like Howarth Park, perfect for afternoon walks or family picnics. Additionally, while tech job opportunities are more abundant in Seattle, Santa Rosa offers a unique lifestyle with less congestion and more sunny days, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts who appreciate vineyards and the wine culture. The transition may present a shift in lifestyle, but both cities offer unique benefits and experiences.

Seattle vs. Santa Rosa Food Guide

This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Seattle & Santa Rosa, emphasizing how food is an integral part of local culture and living experience. We’ll delve into the food scene of these two locations, aiding your understanding as you transition.

SeattleSanta Rosa
Most iconic local food itemSalmonWine Country Cuisine
Most popular meat dishPhoTri-tip
Most popular street food itemHot DogsTacos
Most popular vegan foodQuinoa BowlAvocado Toast
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
  • Canlis
  • Loulay
  • Pike Place Chowder
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
Abundance of Food Trucks🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
Foodie Scene🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

In Seattle, the freshness and variety in seafood, particularly salmon dishes, stand out as a central aspect of its cuisine, while Santa Rosa offers a unique blend of flavors known as Wine Country Cuisine, focusing on local ingredients and wine pairings. Seattle boasts a vibrant street food scene with an assortment of food trucks serving international and local dishes. On the other hand, in Santa Rosa, you can enjoy the local taco trucks that represent the city's Mexican American influence. For a high-end dining experience, Seattle's Canlis and Santa Rosa's Stark's Steak & Seafood offer memorable meals that highlight each city's culinary strengths. Finally, both cities cater to health-conscious and vegan diets, though Seattle slightly outpaces Santa Rosa in the availability of vegan options.

Seattle vs. Santa Rosa Restaurant Comparison

Finding a new favorite eating spot is crucial to making a new city feel like home. This restaurant comparison between Seattle, WA and Santa Rosa, CA is designed to help you transition smoothly by finding equivalents to your beloved Seattle eateries in your new Santa Rosa neighborhood. Let's dive into the heart of culinary continuity, from high-end to casual dining.

SeattleSanta RosaWhat You'll Love
CanlisStark's Steak & SeafoodBoth offer a sophisticated dining experience with a focus on fine ingredients.
The Pink DoorRiviera RistoranteClassic Italian fare with a comparable charming and romantic ambiance.
Pike Place ChowderWilli's Seafood & Raw BarBright flavors and fresh seafood are central to both menus.
Ray's BoathouseSea Thai BistroBoth boast a seamless blend of stunning views and exquisite seafood dishes.
MamnoonEast West CafeOffering a diverse menu that brings Middle Eastern flavors to Santa Rosa.
PaseoEl Coqui Puerto Rican CuisineKnown for their flavorful, hearty fare symbolic of their respective cultures.
Serious PieLo Coco's PizzeriaBoth establishments are revered for their artisanal pizzas and lively atmospheres.
Taylor ShellfishThe Oyster GirlsA passion for shellfish is evident, from farm-fresh oysters to savory clams.
RevelKhoom LannaCuisine that pays homage to Asian flavors with a modern twist.
Matt's in the MarketSpring ThaiWhile differing in cuisine, both prioritize fresh, local ingredients in a cozy setting.

Exploring Santa Rosa's dining scene can be an exciting adventure, especially when you find places that remind you of the flavors you love. The transition from Canlis in Seattle to Stark's Steak & Seafood in Santa Rosa will be seamless for those who cherish an upscale dining experience and meticulously crafted dishes. The Pink Door loyalists will find a new haven in Riviera Ristorante, where the Italian cuisine and ambiance resonate with the beloved Seattle spot. Meanwhile, Pike Place Chowder fans can dive into a bowl of flavorful seafood at Willi's Seafood & Raw Bar, ensuring those craving for oceanic delights are well satisfied in their new coastal surroundings.

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Ready to start your move?

Seattle vs. Santa Rosa Real Estate & Living Facts

When considering a move, understanding the real estate landscape is crucial. This comparison between Seattle, WA , and Santa Rosa, CA , will illuminate differences in housing to help you make an informed decision.

ComparisonSeattleSanta Rosa
Typical Architecture StyleModern and CraftsmanCalifornia Ranch and Craftsman
Walkability 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listingViews, Luxury finishes, Smart Home FeaturesVineyard Proximity, Spacious Yards, Solar Panels

In the bustling market of Seattle, you'll find a mix of Modern and Craftsman homes commanding a higher price, both bought and rented, compared to those in Santa Rosa. However, Santa Rosa offers its own charm with houses typical of California Ranch style, often highlighted for their vineyard proximity and spacious yards, ideal for those seeking a blend of urban and rural lifestyle. Seattle boasts superior walkability and an urban lifestyle rating, reflecting its dense, vibrant cityscape filled with attractions and amenities. In contrast, Santa Rosa, with its lower bikeability and urban lifestyle scores, may appeal more to those looking for a quieter pace of life, yet still within reach of city conveniences.

Pet-friendly neighborhoods background image

Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Santa Rosa, CA

1. Montgomery Village: With its numerous pathways and the nearby Howarth Park, your furry friends will enjoy countless hours of outdoor activity and socializing.

2. Oakmont: This neighborhood is known for its hiking club and proximity to Annadel State Park, offering expansive areas for you and your pets to explore the great outdoors together.

3. Bennett Valley: Home to the Galvin Community Park, which features a dedicated dog park where your pets can run free and socialize with other dogs in a safe and friendly environment.

Seattle vs. Santa Rosa Weather Considerations

When planning a move from one city to another, understanding the differences in weather can significantly impact your daily life and adaptability. This comparison aims to highlight the weather differences between Seattle, WA, and Santa Rosa, CA , providing a clearer picture of what changes you may need to anticipate.

Summer icon
75°F / 55°F

Seattle, WA

82°F / 52°F

Santa Rosa, CA

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
47°F / 37°F

Seattle, WA

60°F / 39°F

Santa Rosa, CA

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
37.5"

Seattle, WA

30.2"

Santa Rosa, CA

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
5"

Seattle, WA

0"

Santa Rosa, CA

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

ComparisonSeattleSanta Rosa
Air QualityGoodModerate
Natural DisastersRain, EarthquakesWildfires, Earthquakes
Days of Sunshine per Year☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. UV Index🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Avg. Annual Humidity💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦

Moving from Seattle to Santa Rosa, you'll enjoy more sunny days per year, making outdoor activities and vitamin D intake more plentiful. However, it's essential to note the rise in average UV index in Santa Rosa which calls for more diligent sun protection year-round. Air quality in Santa Rosa is generally moderate due to its proximity to wildfires, unlike Seattle's typically good air quality. Another critical factor to consider is natural disasters; while both cities are prone to earthquakes, Santa Rosa also faces the risk of wildfires. This comparison serves as a practical framework to prepare you for the environmental changes and help you adapt more swiftly to your new locale.

Ready to start your move?

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

When planning your move from Seattle, WA to Santa Rosa, CA, it's crucial to understand the financial landscape you're entering. This comparison will illuminate the differences in cost of living , taxation , and economic environment between Seattle and Santa Rosa , providing a comprehensive overview of what to expect in your new home.

ComparisonSeattleSanta Rosa
Avg. Household Income$110,781$86,459
Cost of Living Index121.4136.4
State Income Tax013.3 (max)
Avg. Property Tax0.990.77
Avg. Sales Tax10.18.75
Top 3 IndustriesTechnology, Retail, AerospaceWine production, Healthcare, Tourism
AffluenceHighModerate
PovertyModerateModerate
HomelessnessHighModerate

Moving from Seattle to Santa Rosa, you'll find yourself in a less expensive yet diverse economic environment. Although the average household income in Santa Rosa is lower, the cost of living is significantly more affordable, marked by a lower sales tax and property tax rate, despite California's higher income tax. The dominant industries in Santa Rosa, notably wine production, differ greatly from Seattle's tech and aerospace economies, suggesting diverse job opportunities. While both cities face their own challenges with poverty and homelessness, the moderate affluence in Santa Rosa coupled with a slightly lower cost of living may offer a balanced lifestyle for newcomers.

Seattle vs. Santa Rosa Political & Religious Comparison

When considering a move from Seattle, WA to Santa Rosa, CA, it's helpful to get a quick snapshot of the local landscapes. This guide provides a comparison of the politics and religious makeup between Seattle & Santa Rosa , offering insights into what you might expect from your potential new home.

SeattleSanta Rosa
Political Make-upLiberalLiberal
Local PoliticsProgressive policies, emphasis on social justiceLean towards progressive approaches, environmentally focused
ReligionLess religious, diverse practicesLess religious, with a mix of beliefs

Both Seattle and Santa Rosa share a liberal political makeup, emphasizing progressive policies and valuing social justice and environmental concerns. Seattle is known for its strong progressive stance on various issues, from climate action to social reforms. Santa Rosa, while also liberal, tends to focus more on environmental initiatives, reflecting California's overall dedication to combating climate change. Regarding religion, both cities are less religious compared to other parts of the United States, hosting a variety of beliefs and practices. This diversity allows for a rich, inclusive community where different perspectives can thrive.

Seattle vs. Santa Rosa Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

When planning a move, understanding the comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Seattle & Santa Rosa can greatly impact your daily commute and overall lifestyle. This guide aims to provide a clear understanding of what to expect in either city.

ComparisonSeattleSanta Rosa
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)2824
Traffic Congestion 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦
Availability of Public Transit 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇
Can you get by without car?Yes, but challengingPossible, but less convenient

In Seattle, despite a higher average commute time and notable traffic congestion, the city's robust public transit system, including buses, light rail, and ferries, makes getting around without a car feasible but can be challenging at times. On the other hand, Santa Rosa offers a quieter, less congested commuting experience, which is reflected in its lower traffic scores. However, the city's public transportation options are not as extensive, making car dependency more common. This means when moving from Seattle to Santa Rosa, you might find yourself relying more on personal vehicle use than you did before, despite the generally smoother traffic flow.

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