Best Seattle to Sunnyvale Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from Seattle to Sunnyvale and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 842 mile move from Washington to California go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 34 Seattle to Sunnyvale 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 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 Sunnyvale. 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 Sunnyvale Moving Companies
| Rank | Company Name | Rating  | Affordability Index | License | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Seattle Moves & More | 9.54 | 9.39 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 2 | D&L Movers | 9.34 | 9.36 | Active | Contact |
| 3 | John Volken Academy Movers | 9.33 | 9.65 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 4 | Careful Movers | 9.31 | 8.63 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 5 | People Movers | 9.16 | 9.54 | Authorized For Property | Contact |
(800) 787-5428Cost to Move from Seattle to Sunnyvale
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 842 miles from Seattle, WA to Sunnyvale, CA will cost on average $2,497 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Seattle to Sunnyvale move is roughly $5,994. 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 | $1,680 | 300 ft³ | 5.60 |
| 1 Bedroom | $2,497 | 450 ft³ | 5.55 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $4,125 | 750 ft³ | 5.50 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $5,994 | 1100 ft³ | 5.45 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $8,639 | 1600 ft³ | 5.40 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $9,629 | 1800 ft³ | 5.35 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Sunnyvale to Seattle guide.
Compare the 5 Best Seattle to Sunnyvale Movers
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
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) |
D&L Movers
1563 Bahama Way
Campbell, CA, 95008
About D&L Movers
Founded by Drew Sanchez and Leo Cervantes, D&L Movers is a local moving company that offers full-service relocations for homes and...
Services
- Cheap moving
- Local moving
- Long-distance moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2706648 / - Active Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 3 |
| Registered Drivers | 5 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 20,000 (2017) |
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) |
Careful Movers
3641 Haven Ave C
Menlo Park, CA, 94025
About Careful Movers
With almost two decades of expertise and experience in the moving industry, Menlo Park-based Careful Movers promises stress-free, on-time, and on-budget...
Services
- Local Moving
- Long Distance Moving
- Office Moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 1464935 / 553377 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 14 |
| Registered Drivers | 14 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 90,000 (2022) |
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) |
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. Sunnyvale Neighborhood Comparison
Moving can feel like navigating uncharted waters, especially when relocating from one bustling city to another. To ease this transition, we've crafted a comparison of the local neighborhoods between Seattle, WA & Sunnyvale, CA . This guide is designed to help you find a slice of familiarity in your new environment by matching the vibes and characteristics of Seattle's top neighborhoods with their counterparts in Sunnyvale.
| Seattle | Sunnyvale | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Ballard | Downtown Sunnyvale | Vibrant nightlife & markets |
| Capitol Hill | Snail | Diverse community & cultural scene |
| Queen Anne | Washington Park | Historic homes & quiet charm |
| Green Lake | Lakewood Village | Family-friendly & outdoor activities |
| Fremont | Ortega Park | Eclectic mix & creative spaces |
| West Seattle | Birdland | Waterfront views & community feel |
| University District | Heritage District | Youthful energy & academia vibes |
| Pioneer Square | Lawrence Station | Historic architecture & tech hub |
| Beacon Hill | Cherryhill | Diverse community & green spaces |
| South Lake Union | Tasman Crossing | Tech-centric & modern amenities |
In transferring from Seattle's lush landscapes and dynamic cultural compilations to Sunnyvale's sunny expanses, it's essential to recognize the smaller details that make each neighborhood unique. For instance, if you cherish the cultural richness and bustling nightlife of Capitol Hill, Snail's diverse community and cultural events will feel like home, with venues like the Sunnyvale Theatre offering local performances akin to those you'd catch at Seattle's Paramount Theatre. Outdoor enthusiasts leaving Green Lake's verdant trails behind will find solace in Lakewood Village's family-friendly atmosphere and nearby Las Palmas Park, offering a similar blend of communal activities and natural beauty. And for those moving from Ballard's historic maritime charm, Downtown Sunnyvale not only matches the lively spirit with its pulsing nightlife and farmer's markets but also boasts a variety of local eateries and shops reminiscent of Ballard Avenue's bustling corridor.
Things to Do in Sunnyvale
Explore the Baylands Nature Preserve.- Attend a workshop at Sunnyvale Public Library.
- Shop at Sunnyvale Town Center.
- Enjoy Central Park activities.
- Visit the Computer History Museum.
- Sample local brews at Faultline Brewing Company.
- Catch a show at Sunnyvale Theatre.
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Seattle to Sunnyvale
Moving from one city to another involves comparing and contrasting various factors to make an informed decision. This comparison aims to provide an honest reflection of the good and bad attributes of relocating from Seattle, WA to Sunnyvale, CA , helping you weigh your options carefully.
Seattle, WA- Higher rainfall
- Cooler summers
- Less diverse cuisine
- Fewer tech opportunities
Sunnyvale, CA- Sunnier days
- Warmer summers
- More diverse cuisine
- More tech opportunities
Sunnyvale, CA- Less greenery
- Less coffee culture
- Limited music scene
- Fewer outdoor options
Seattle, WA- Lush greenery
- Strong coffee culture
- Vibrant music scene
- Outdoor activities
While Sunnyvale may boast more sunny days and diverse culinary options compared to Seattle, it's also worth considering the transition in lifestyle. For example, in Sunnyvale, you'll have the opportunity to explore a wide range of restaurants like DishDash for Middle Eastern cuisine or grab a coffee at Bitter+Bean, although you might miss Seattle's iconic coffee shops like Starbucks Reserve Roastery. Additionally, tech opportunities are more abundant in Sunnyvale, home to companies like Google and LinkedIn, making it a tech enthusiast's dream. However, if you relish the outdoors and a vibrant music scene, Seattle's lush greenery, myriad of outdoor activities, and famous venues like The Crocodile might be sorely missed.
Seattle vs. Sunnyvale Food Guide
This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Seattle & Sunnyvale, highlighting the significance of food in understanding the cultural and lifestyle nuances of a new area. Discover what culinary delights await you in your new home.
| Seattle | Sunnyvale | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Salmon | Artichoke dishes |
| Most popular meat dish | Teriyaki | Carne Asada |
| Most popular street food item | Hot Dogs | Tacos |
| Most popular vegan food | Vegan Pho | Vegetable Curry |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
In Seattle, the mix of fresh seafood, particularly salmon, reflects the city's close relationship with Puget Sound and the broader Pacific Northwest. The iconic Teriyaki dishes represent Seattle's rich amalgamation of cultures. Must-visit spots like Canlis showcase the city’s fine dining prowess, while Theo Chocolate offers a unique insight into artisanal chocolate making. In contrast, Sunnyvale, nestled in California's tech-rich Silicon Valley, delights with its diverse culinary scene, evidenced by beloved local eateries like DishDash, which serves up Middle Eastern fare and Philz Coffee, a staple for coffee enthusiasts. The presence of food trucks and vegan options in both cities underscores a shared focus on variety and health consciousness, though each city brings its unique flavor to the table.
Seattle vs. Sunnyvale Restaurant Comparison
When relocating from Seattle, WA to Sunnyvale, CA, food plays an integral role in making a new place feel like home. This comparison aims to ease your transition by helping you discover your next favorite dining spots, using your current favorites as a guide. Our restaurant comparison will bridge your move from Seattle to Sunnyvale, ensuring a seamless culinary transition.
| Seattle | Sunnyvale | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| The Pink Door | Il Fornaio | Similar in offering authentic Italian cuisine with a romantic atmosphere. |
| Canlis | DishDash | While focusing more on Middle Eastern cuisine, it matches the upscale dining and meticulous service. |
| Pike Place Chowder | Crab City | Known for great seafood options, bringing a taste of coastal dining reminiscent of Pike Place. |
| Toulouse Petit Kitchen & Lounge | Café Gibraltar | Offers a cozy environment with a diverse menu that explores flavors as eclectic as Toulouse. |
| Mamnoon | Falafel STOP | Offers Middle Eastern cuisine with a modern twist, echoing the innovative dishes of Mamnoon. |
| Taylor Shellfish Oyster Bar | Claw Shack | A place for seafood lovers, specializing in shellfish with a casual, inviting atmosphere. |
| Revel | Chelokababi | Serves up creative and flavorful dishes with an emphasis on quality ingredients, much like Revel’s approach. |
| Skillet Diner | Murphy Avenue Diner | Offers hearty, comforting diner fare that brings to mind the homestyle cookery of Skillet. |
| Matt's in the Market | Le Petit Bistro | A charming spot offering fresh, market-driven dishes, echoing Matt’s commitment to locally-sourced ingredients. |
| Serious Pie | A Slice of New York | Delivers artisanal pizza with a focus on quality toppings and a casual, yet refined dining experience. |
Whether it's the intimate and authentic Italian vibes you cherished at The Pink Door now found at Il Fornaio in Sunnyvale, or the fresh, market-driven dishes that made Matt's in the Market a favorite being mirrored by Le Petit Bistro, the culinary transition promises an exciting and familiar journey. DishDash's meticulous service and upscale dining ambiance will surely remind you of evenings spent at Canlis. Meanwhile, A Slice of New York offers a taste of artisanal pizza with quality toppings and an atmosphere that recalls the casual refinement of Serious Pie. These comparable dining experiences assure you that relocating doesn't mean leaving behind what you love—it's about discovering new favorites that feel like home.
Ready to start your move?
Seattle vs. Sunnyvale Real Estate & Living Facts
When considering a move, real estate vastly shapes your experience in a new city. It's pivotal to grasp how Seattle, WA and Sunnyvale, CA fare in housing costs, styles, and livability to make an informed decision. Let's delve into the details of each city's unique living environment.
| Comparison | Seattle | Sunnyvale |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Craftsman, Modern | Mediterranean, Modern |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Views, Green Space | Technology Upgrades, Proximity to Tech Hubs |
In comparing the housing landscape of Seattle, WA, and Sunnyvale, CA, several key differences emerge. Seattle's housing market, with its iconic Craftsman and modern homes, tends to emphasize views and proximity to green spaces, reflecting the city's lush, natural environment. The walkability and urban lifestyle scores are notably higher in Seattle, making it appealing for those seeking a vibrant, pedestrian-friendly setting. On the other hand, Sunnyvale, nestled in the heart of Silicon Valley, features Mediterranean and modern architectural styles. The city caters to tech professionals with homes often boasting the latest technology upgrades and proximity to major tech hubs. Despite being less walkable than Seattle, its strong ties to the tech industry and higher median home prices mirror the premium on living in one of the nation's tech capitals.
Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Sunnyvale, CA
1. Sunnyvale West: With numerous walking paths and its proximity to Las Palmas Park, a dog-friendly park, it's a neighborhood where your pets can enjoy plenty of outdoor activities.
2. Cherryhill: Home to the Serra Park, which offers a spacious off-leash area for dogs, making it a haven for pet owners who love to give their pets freedom to roam and play.
3. Snail: Known for its community vibe and access to pet-friendly amenities, including several pet stores and the close-by Raynor Park, where pets can enjoy walks on leashes amidst green surroundings.
Seattle vs. Sunnyvale Weather Considerations
When considering moving from one city to another, understanding the differences in weather is crucial. This comparison will highlight how the climate in Seattle, WA contrasts with that of Sunnyvale, CA, equipping you with essential insights for your transition.
Seattle, WA
Sunnyvale, CA
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Seattle, WA
Sunnyvale, CA
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Seattle, WA
Sunnyvale, CA
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Seattle, WA
Sunnyvale, CA
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Seattle | Sunnyvale |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Good | Moderate |
| Natural Disasters | Earthquakes, Volcanic Eruptions | Earthquakes, Wildfires |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
Transitioning from Seattle, WA to Sunnyvale, CA, you'll find Sunnyvale's climate to be drier and sunnier, with significantly more days of sunshine a year and less than half the annual rainfall of Seattle. The average humidity is also lower in Sunnyvale, potentially making the air feel more comfortable for those sensitive to moisture. However, Sunnyvale experiences higher average UV index levels throughout the year, indicating a greater need for sun protection. Understanding these differences will help you adapt more effectively to your new environment.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Seattle to Sunnyvale
When planning a move from Seattle, WA to Sunnyvale, CA, it's crucial to grasp the financial landscape you're transitioning into. Understanding the cost of living, tax implications, and average incomes can significantly affect your budgeting and lifestyle in your new city. This comparison aims to shed light on these vital financial considerations.
| Comparison | Seattle | Sunnyvale |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $110,781 | $156,059 |
| Cost of Living Index | 121.4 | 136.4 |
| State Income Tax | 0% | 13.3% (max) |
| Avg. Property Tax | 0.99% | 0.79% |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 10.1% | 9.0% |
| Top 3 Industries | Technology, Aerospace, Retail | Technology, Manufacturing, Retail |
| Affluence | High | Very High |
| Poverty | Moderate | Low |
| Homelessness | Significant | Moderate |
While both Seattle and Sunnyvale boast strong economies anchored by the technology sector, differences in living costs and taxes are significant. Sunnyvale, with its higher average household income, also has a notably higher cost of living index than Seattle. Though Washington State has no income tax, California's progressive income tax system can affect high earners. Additionally, while both cities experience homelessness, Seattle faces a more pronounced challenge. Understanding these differences can help you make informed financial adjustments as you transition to life in Sunnyvale.
Seattle vs. Sunnyvale Political & Religious Comparison
This guide offers a quick look at the comparison of the politics and religious climate between Seattle, WA & Sunnyvale, CA , providing potential movers with a glimpse into the typical resident makeup of both cities.
| Seattle | Sunnyvale | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Liberal/Democratic | Liberal/Democratic |
| Local Politics | Progressive policies on environment and social issues | Strong tech industry influence on local governance |
| Religion | Mix of secular and various religious beliefs | Diverse religious communities, including Silicon Valley Christian Center and others |
When moving from Seattle to Sunnyvale, you'll find that both cities share a liberal and Democratic political leaning. However, Seattle's local politics often emphasize progressive environmental and social policies, reflective of its active community engagement in these areas. In contrast, Sunnyvale's politics are deeply influenced by the surrounding Silicon Valley tech scene, which can sway local governance issues towards innovation and economic growth. The religious landscape in both cities is diverse, but Sunnyvale offers a wide range of communities, including significant Christian, Jewish, and Muslim congregations, providing plenty of options for those seeking spiritual connections in their new city.
Seattle vs. Sunnyvale Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Moving from Seattle, WA, to Sunnyvale, CA, means adapting to new traffic patterns and transportation options. This comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Seattle & Sunnyvale is designed to help you better understand what your daily commute and traffic experience will be like in these cities.
| Comparison | Seattle | Sunnyvale |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 27.3 | 25.4 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | Yes, with some effort | Challenging |
In Seattle, public transportation options are fairly comprehensive, including buses, light rail, and even ferries, which offer a unique way to get around the city. The average commute time is slightly longer in Seattle than in Sunnyvale, but Seattle's public transit score is higher, meaning you might find it easier to forego a car entirely if you live and work in more accessible areas. In contrast, Sunnyvale, being in the heart of Silicon Valley, has a bit less traffic congestion on average, but relies more heavily on cars due to its suburban layout and less extensive public transit system. Living in Sunnyvale without a car can be more of a challenge, suggesting that while you could manage without one, your daily planning and commute routes may need to be more strategic.
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