Best Tacoma to San Jose Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from Tacoma to San Jose and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 811 mile move from Washington to California go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 38 Tacoma to San Jose 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 D&L Movers), 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 Tacoma compared to San Jose. 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 Tacoma to San Jose Moving Companies
| Rank | Company Name | Rating  | Affordability Index | License | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | D&L Movers | 9.34 | 9.36 | Active | Contact |
| 2 | John Volken Academy Movers | 9.33 | 9.65 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 3 | Careful Movers | 9.31 | 8.63 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 4 | First Due Movers | 9.25 | 9.06 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
| 5 | People Movers | 9.16 | 9.54 | Authorized For Property | Contact |
(800) 787-5428Cost to Move from Tacoma to San Jose
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 811 miles from Tacoma, WA to San Jose, CA will cost on average $2,471 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Tacoma to San Jose move is roughly $5,930. 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 | $1,662 | 300 ft³ | 5.54 |
| 1 Bedroom | $2,471 | 450 ft³ | 5.49 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $4,081 | 750 ft³ | 5.44 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $5,930 | 1100 ft³ | 5.39 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $8,545 | 1600 ft³ | 5.34 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $9,524 | 1800 ft³ | 5.29 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from San Jose to Tacoma guide.
Compare the 5 Best Tacoma to San Jose Movers
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
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) |
First Due Movers
8126 304th Ave SE
Preston, WA, 98050
About First Due Movers
First Due Movers is based in Preston, Washington, but offers nationwide moving services. The company is actually owned by local Washington...
Services
- Residential Moves
- Commercial Moves
- Long-Distance Moves
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 1990914 / 865709 Authorized For Property, HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 12 |
| Registered Drivers | 20 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 205,000 (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.
Tacoma vs. San Jose Neighborhood Comparison
Moving can feel like a leap into the unknown, especially when it involves navigating the neighborhoods of a new city. To ease this transition, this guide offers a comparison of the local neighborhoods between Tacoma, WA & San Jose, CA . By identifying the Tacoma neighborhoods you love, we can match you with similar areas in San Jose, fostering a sense of familiarity and helping you find your new favorite spots.
| Tacoma | San Jose | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Proctor District | Willow Glen | Charming, community-focused |
| Stadium District | Rose Garden | Historic homes, lush landscapes |
| North End | Almaden Valley | Family-friendly, scenic views |
| Old Town | Los Gatos | Historic, vibrant downtown |
| Hilltop | Japantown | Culturally rich, diverse community |
| South Tacoma | Blossom Valley | Affordable, community parks |
| Eastside | Evergreen | Diverse, suburban feel |
| Central Tacoma | Cambrian Park | Family-friendly, quiet neighborhoods |
| West End | Cupertino | Upscale, excellent schools |
| Lincoln District | Berryessa | Diverse, shopping & dining |
In comparing neighborhoods, if you're captivated by the Proctor District's quaint charm and tight-knit community, Willow Glen in San Jose echoes this sentiment with its whimsical downtown area, featuring cozy cafes like Willow Glen Coffee Roasting Company and unique boutiques. For those attracted to the historic elegance and green spaces of the Stadium District, San Jose's Rose Garden area offers not only stunning homes but also the Municipal Rose Garden, a perfect place for leisurely strolls or picnics. Meanwhile, the artistic and diverse atmosphere of Tacoma's Hilltop neighborhood finds a companion in San Jose's Japantown, where cultural festivities and the Japanese American Museum of San Jose provide a deep dive into the community's rich heritage. These comparisons illuminate the vibrant life that awaits in neighborhoods across San Jose, ensuring you feel right at home in your new city.
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Tacoma to San Jose
Moving from Tacoma, WA to San Jose, CA requires a balanced view to truly appreciate the transition. This comparison aims to reflect honestly on the pros and cons associated with relocating from the lush landscapes of Tacoma to the tech-savvy city of San Jose. Acknowledging both the benefits and drawbacks equips you with a comprehensive perspective for a smoother transition.
Tacoma, WA- Lower Tech Jobs
- More Rain
- Smaller City
San Jose, CA- High Tech Hub
- Less Rain
- Bigger Economy
San Jose, CA- Less Greenery
- Higher Living Costs
- Busier Life
Tacoma, WA- Lush Landscapes
- Affordable Housing
- Community Feel
Moving to San Jose from Tacoma introduces you to the heart of Silicon Valley, home to technology giants like Apple and Google, offering abundant tech job opportunities. While you might miss Tacoma's rain-drenched landscapes, San Jose offers its own natural beauty, with spots like Alum Rock Park providing outdoor escapades amidst less rainy days. However, the shift comes with a spike in living costs, notably housing. Yet, neighborhoods like Downtown San Jose offer vibrant urban living with a slew of restaurants, museums, and cultural events, making the bustling city life something to look forward to.
Tacoma vs. San Jose Food Guide
This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Tacoma, WA & San Jose, CA, highlighting the importance of food as a key element of local culture and lifestyle. By examining what each city has to offer in terms of dining, you can get a taste of what life will be like in your new home.
| Tacoma | San Jose | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Dungeness Crab | Pho |
| Most popular meat dish | Pacific Northwest Salmon | Carne Asada |
| Most popular street food item | Fish Tacos | Tacos |
| Most popular vegan food | Quinoa Salad | Vietnamese Spring Rolls |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
When settling into your new home in San Jose, you'll quickly discover the city's rich tapestry of cuisines that reflect its diverse population. For a truly local experience, navigate through the bustling streets of the Downtown area or take an aromatic tour through Little Saigon, where you can indulge in the iconic Pho or the fresh Vietnamese Spring Rolls catering to vegan preferences. San Jose's Santana Row is not just a shopping destination but a culinary adventure with a variety of dining options from high-end restaurants to casual eateries and food trucks, offering something for every palate. The city's vibrant food scene is a testament to its health-conscious community, with numerous options that support a fit and active lifestyle.
Tacoma vs. San Jose Restaurant Comparison
Finding comfort in the cuisine of a new city can truly make it feel like home. This guide has been crafted to help those moving from Tacoma, WA, to San Jose, CA, discover their next favorite eateries by comparing top restaurants in each city. Using Tacoma restaurants as a guide to find similar culinary treasures in San Jose brings a piece of home to your new locale.
| Tacoma | San Jose | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Indochine Asian Dining Lounge | SP2 Communal Bar + Restaurant | Similar upscale ambiance and creative Asian fusion dishes |
| The Table | Orchard City Kitchen | Both offer a farm-to-table dining experience with a focus on seasonal ingredients |
| MSCO | Boiling Crab | Although the cuisines differ, both are known for their seafood and communal dining style |
| Pacific Grill | LB Steak Santana Row | Comparable in offering high-end dining experiences with a focus on prime meats and seafood |
| Dirty Oscar's Annex | San Pedro Square Market | Similar vibe in terms of casual, vibrant dining with diverse food options |
| El Borracho | La Victoria Taqueria | Both are loved for their authentic Mexican flavors and casual dining atmosphere |
| Marrow Kitchen | Adega | Emphasizes gourmet dining with a focus on meticulously crafted dishes and fine-dining atmosphere |
| Doyle’s Public House | O'Flaherty's Irish Pub | Comparable cozy, casual pub environment perfect for a hangout with friends |
| Ezell's Famous Chicken | Bonchon | Similar for their focus on providing crispy, flavorful chicken dishes in a casual setting |
| Equinox Restaurant and Bar | Ludwig’s German Table | Both offer a unique European dining experience with a focus on traditional dishes |
For those who savor the farm-to-table concept, Orchard City Kitchen in San Jose mirrors The Table in Tacoma, offering a robust menu that changes with the seasons, catering to food enthusiasts who appreciate the freshness of locally-sourced ingredients. Similarly, seafood lovers transitioning from Tacoma will find a comparable vibrancy and communal dining experience at San Jose's Boiling Crab, albeit with a different culinary twist. On the more casual side, while Dirty Oscar's Annex provides a unique vibe with its eclectic menu, San Pedro Square Market in San Jose offers a similar bustling atmosphere with an array of food options, presenting an ideal spot for casual meetups or to explore diverse culinary offerings. These establishments not only bring back a taste of Tacoma but also invite you to embrace the rich dining culture of San Jose.
Ready to start your move?
Tacoma vs. San Jose Real Estate & Living Facts
Understanding the real estate dynamics is crucial when considering a move. It's important to know how the two cities, Tacoma, WA and San Jose, CA, compare in terms of housing. This includes factors such as cost, architecture, and livability aspects to ensure you make the best decision for your needs.
| Comparison | Tacoma | San Jose |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Craftsman | Modern and Spanish |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Waterfront views, Proximity to parks | Proximity to tech hubs, Eco-friendly features |
In comparing the real estate aspects of Tacoma, WA, and San Jose, CA, it's clear that each city offers a unique lifestyle and housing options that cater to different preferences and budgets. San Jose's higher median home price and rent reflect its status as a tech hub in Silicon Valley, offering modern and Spanish architecture with eco-friendly features prominently mentioned in listings. On the other hand, Tacoma provides more affordable living with craftsman-style homes, highlighting waterfront views and proximity to parks. Both cities offer a decent level of walkability and bikeability, though San Jose scores higher in these categories, indicating a more urban lifestyle that might appeal to those who prioritize convenience and accessibility.
Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in San Jose, CA
1. Willow Glen: Known for its quaint, tree-lined streets, you'll find plenty of pet-friendly restaurants and a welcoming atmosphere at Willow Glen's downtown area, perfect for leisurely walks with your furry friends.
2. Cambrian Park: Boasting a serene suburban vibe, Cambrian Park is home to several parks, including the dog-friendly Butcher Dog Park, where your pets can play off-leash in a safe, enclosed environment.
3. Downtown San Jose: If you're looking for a more urban experience, Downtown San Jose offers many pet-friendly living spaces and amenities, alongside dog-friendly dining options like Original Joe’s, making it an ideal place for pet owners who love city living.
Tacoma vs. San Jose Weather Considerations
Moving between cities means adapting to new weather patterns. Understanding how the weather compares between Tacoma, WA, and San Jose, CA is crucial for a smooth transition. This comparison helps you prepare for changes in temperature, sunshine, and potential weather-related challenges in your new home.
Tacoma, WA
San Jose, CA
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Tacoma, WA
San Jose, CA
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Tacoma, WA
San Jose, CA
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Tacoma, WA
San Jose, CA
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Tacoma | San Jose |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Moderate | Good |
| Natural Disasters | Rainstorms, Flooding | Earthquakes, Wildfires |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
Moving from Tacoma to San Jose, you'll experience a significant increase in sunshine days and a milder winter climate. San Jose enjoys more than 100 additional days of sunshine per year compared to Tacoma, lending itself to more outdoor activities year-round. However, this comes with the need to be more vigilant about sun protection due to the higher average UV index. The dramatically lower annual rainfall in San Jose compared to Tacoma means a drier climate, but also leads to considerations like drought conditions and the associated risk of wildfires. Adapting to these weather changes will help you make the most of your new environment in San Jose.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Tacoma to San Jose
When deciding to relocate from Tacoma, WA to San Jose, CA, it's crucial to compare the financial aspects and cost of living between these two cities to gauge how your economic situation might change. Understanding these differences ensures you're financially prepared for your move.
| Comparison | Tacoma | San Jose |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $77,141 | $126,377 |
| Cost of Living Index | 109.5 | 156.1 |
| State Income Tax | 0 | 0 - 13.3* |
| Avg. Property Tax | 1.1 | 0.79 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 10.2 | 9.25 |
| Top 3 Industries | Healthcare, Retail, Manufacturing | Technology, Manufacturing, Retail |
| Affluence | Moderate | High |
| Poverty | Observable | Lower |
| Homelessness | Significant | Significant |
Moving from Tacoma to San Jose means adapting to a considerably higher cost of living. Despite San Jose's hefty average household income—nearly double Tacoma's—its cost of living index is also significantly higher. Taxation plays a unique role in each city; while Washington State levies no income tax, California's rates can climb steeply, affecting your take-home pay in San Jose. However, San Jose’s lower property and sales taxes might slightly ease the financial burden. The thriving tech industry in San Jose creates a high affluence level, yet, like Tacoma, it still grapples with significant homelessness issues, reflecting the complex socio-economic landscape awaiting you.
Tacoma vs. San Jose Political & Religious Comparison
In preparing for a move from Tacoma, WA, to San Jose, CA, it's helpful to understand the communities you'll be joining. This comparison of the politics between Tacoma & San Jose provides a quick snapshot of the political and religious makeup of these cities, aiding in setting expectations for your new home.
| Tacoma | San Jose | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Liberal | Very Liberal |
| Local Politics | Progressively led city council | Diverse and progressive city leadership |
| Religion | Mixed, with prominent Christian and non-religious communities | Diverse, large non-religious segment, significant Asian religions presence |
Tacoma and San Jose both exhibit liberal leanings, with San Jose showcasing an even more pronounced liberal stance. The political climate in both cities is shaped by a progressively led governance structure, though San Jose's diversity is reflected strongly in its city leadership, offering a wide range of perspectives and policies. Religion in Tacoma presents a mixture of Christianity and non-religious beliefs, a common trend in Pacific Northwest cities. San Jose, by comparison, hosts a greater variety of religious beliefs, including a significant presence of Asian religions, mirroring its diverse population. This rich tapestry of political and religious backgrounds will be a critical part of your adaptation process, influencing local culture and community interaction.
Tacoma vs. San Jose Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Moving from Tacoma, WA, to San Jose, CA, offers a unique opportunity to compare the traffic and transportation options between these two cities. This analysis aims to better understand what the daily commute and traffic is like, helping you make informed decisions as you transition to your new home.
| Comparison | Tacoma | San Jose |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 27 | 31 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | Challenging | Possible, but limited |
When comparing Tacoma and San Jose, it's evident that both cities present unique challenges and opportunities for commuters. In Tacoma, while the average commute time is slightly shorter, the public transportation options are not as robust as in San Jose, making it more challenging to get by without a car. San Jose, despite having higher traffic congestion, offers better public transit availability, making it somewhat easier to live without a vehicle, though still with limitations. This comparison highlights the importance of considering your transportation needs and lifestyle preferences when moving to a new city.
Additional Resources
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