Best Phoenix to Oakland Movers and Practical Moving Guide

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Phoenix to Oakland Movers

Moving from Phoenix, the Valley of the Sun, to Oakland, the bustling heart of the Bay Area, marks an adventurous turn in your life, brimming with new opportunities and experiences. While you bid adieu to the desert’s warmth and embrace Oakland’s vibrant diversity and rich culture, remember, transitioning your life between these cities is no small feat. It's critical to ensure your journey is smooth by entrusting your belongings to professional movers, like us at Great Guys Moving, where reliability and trust form the backbone of our service, guaranteeing a seamless move.

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Best Phoenix to Oakland Moving Companies

Company NameRating QuestionBBB RatingLicenseContact
Sterling Interstate LLC9.75A+Authorized For HHGContact
OCD Moving Services LLC9.66A+Authorized For HHGContact
Kora Moving9.39A+Authorized For HHGContact
New Beginnings Moving Solutions9.32A+Authorized For PropertyContact
Creative Moving and Packing, LLC9.31A+Authorized For HHGContact
Phone (800) 787-5428
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Oakland to Phoenix guide.

5 Best Phoenix to Oakland Moving Companies

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

Sterling Interstate LLC Logo
Exceptional
claimed company icon
9.75/10
based on 2,279+ data points

About Sterling Interstate LLC

Established in 2017, Sterling Interstate opened with the intention to change the stigma around the moving industry by providing reliable, cu...Read More >>

Services

  • Local moving services
  • Long-distance moving services
  • Packing services

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 10/17/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3006713 / 26956

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans6
Registered Drivers7
Total Annual Miles Moved115,000 (2022)
View Full Review
1
OCD Moving Services LLC Logo
Exceptional9.66/10
based on 3,273+ data points

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...Read More >>

Services

  • Local Moving
  • Long Distance Moving
  • Commercial Moving

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 10/17/2024)

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
2
Kora Moving Logo
Exceptional9.39/10
based on 1,517+ data points

About Kora Moving

Kora Moving, based in San Francisco, was established in 2018 by Carlos Viera, who has over 17 years of experience in the moving industry. Th...Read More >>

Services

  • Local moves
  • Long distance moves
  • Packing and unpacking

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 10/18/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3139436 / 1425667

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans1
Registered Drivers1
Total Annual Miles Moved100,000 (2021)
View Full Review
3
New Beginnings Moving Solutions Logo
Exceptional9.32/10
based on 991+ data points

About New Beginnings Moving Solutions

New Beginnings Moving Solutions is a full-service moving company specializing in long-distance moves. It is locally-owned and operated and h...Read More >>

Services

  • Long Distance Moves
  • Local Moves
  • Business Relocation

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 9/27/2022)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3656946 / 1262843

Authorized For Property

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans1
Registered Drivers8
Total Annual Miles Moved500 (2021)
View Full Review
4
Creative Moving and Packing, LLC Logo
Exceptional
claimed company icon
9.31/10
based on 4,091+ data points

About Creative Moving and Packing, LLC

Since 2008, Creative Moving and Packing has served the Phoenix, AZ, area with high-quality local and long-distance relocation services. This...Read More >>

Services

  • Local Moving Services
  • Long-Distance Moving Services
  • Commercial Moving Services

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 10/17/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

1877603 / 1173916

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans10
Registered Drivers11
Total Annual Miles Moved150,000 (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.

Phoenix vs. Oakland Neighborhood Comparison

Moving to a new city can be overwhelming, especially when you're trying to find a neighborhood that feels like home. Our guide aims to ease this transition by drawing comparisons between Phoenix, AZ & Oakland, CA neighborhoods . By identifying similar neighborhoods across these cities, we hope to make your move smoother and more familiar.

PhoenixOaklandHow They're Similar
ArcadiaRockridgeTrendy, affluent area with vibrant main street
DowntownDowntown OaklandUrban heart, diverse dining and arts
Roosevelt RowTemescalArtsy, with strong local arts scene
Paradise ValleyPiedmontUpscale, quiet residential streets
Desert RidgeMontclairFamily-friendly, nestled in nature
North MountainRedwood HeightsScenic views, community-centric
EncantoGlenviewCharming, with historic homes
Biltmore AreaClaremontAffluent, with access to boutique shops
Melrose DistrictLaurelDiverse, vibrant community spirit
Ahwatukee FoothillsSequoyahQuiet, surrounded by natural beauty

In the vibrant heart of Downtown Oakland, you'll find an eclectic mix of dining and arts very reminiscent of Downtown Phoenix. For those drawn to the arts and unique local businesses of Roosevelt Row, Temescal's innovative spirit and array of galleries and shops offer a kindred sense of community. Meanwhile, if the lush, upscale neighborhoods of Paradise Valley captured your heart, the elegant, serene streets of Piedmont in Oakland mirror that exclusive charm, hosting a variety of upscale dining and shopping options like Piedmont Lane. Outdoor lovers who were fond of the expansive, nature-surrounded areas of Ahwatukee Foothills might find their paradise in Sequoyah, where the lush landscapes and proximity to Redwood Regional Park facilitate a seamless blend of upscale suburban living with an alluring, wilderness backdrop.

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Things to Do in Oakland

  • Explore Chabot Space & Science Center
  • Stroll through Oakland Zoo
  • Enjoy Lake Merritt on paddleboat
  • Watch a game at Oakland Coliseum
  • Visit Oakland Museum of California
  • Sample at Jack London Square eateries
  • Hike in Redwood Regional Park

Ready to start your move?

Pros and Cons of Moving from Phoenix to Oakland

Moving cities can be a complex decision, balancing both the charms and challenges of your new and old homes. This comparison aims to provide an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of relocating from Phoenix, AZ to Oakland, CA . By juxtaposing the pros and cons, you'll gain better insight into what this move might mean for you.

CONs
PROs
Phoenix, AZ iconPhoenix, AZ
  • Extreme heat
  • Less cultural diversity
  • Car-dependent
  • Scarcity of water
Oakland, CA iconOakland, CA
  • Milder climate
  • Rich cultural diversity
  • Better public transit
  • More green spaces
Oakland, CA iconOakland, CA
  • Higher living costs
  • Less sunny days
  • More crowded
  • Higher property taxes
Phoenix, AZ iconPhoenix, AZ
  • Lower living costs
  • More sunny days
  • Wide open spaces
  • Lower property taxes

Moving from Phoenix to Oakland introduces you to a vibrant urban tapestry. Oakland's rich cultural diversity is palpable in its culinary scene, from the fusion flavors at Nyum Bai to the innovative vegan dishes at Millennium. While Phoenix boasts more sunny days, Oakland offers a milder climate that encourages exploration of its plentiful green spaces like Tilden Regional Park. Although the cost of living might be higher in Oakland, the quality of life, including access to world-class museums and culturally diverse neighborhoods like Temescal, makes it a compelling place to call home.

Phoenix vs. Oakland Food Guide

This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Phoenix & Oakland, highlighting the importance of food in understanding the culture and day-to-day life of these cities. By examining the culinary scenes, you'll gain insights into what to expect and where to find the best bites in your new locale.

PhoenixOakland
Most iconic local food itemSonoran Hot DogChicken and Waffles
Most popular meat dishCarne AsadaBBQ Brisket
Most popular street food itemTacosBanh Mi
Most popular vegan foodJackfruit TacosVegan Soul Food
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
  • Pizzeria Bianco
  • Barrio Café
  • Durant's
  • Brown Sugar Kitchen
  • Shakewell
  • Commis
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
Abundance of Food Trucks🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
Foodie Scene🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

Phoenix and Oakland offer vastly different culinary experiences, reflecting the unique cultures and tastes of each. In Phoenix, the Sonoran Hot Dog is a must-try, showcasing the city's blend of American and Mexican cuisines. For a taste of this local delicacy, hit up food trucks and stalls around the downtown area, where you'll find vibrant flavors at every turn. Meanwhile, Oakland's thriving food scene is highlighted by its eclectic mix of cuisines, with Chicken and Waffles at the forefront. This dish, among others, can be savored in the thriving neighborhoods of Temescal and Jack London Square, where food lovers will also find an array of vegan options, showcasing Oakland's high rating in vegan-friendliness. Each city's top restaurants, from Pizzeria Bianco in Phoenix to Brown Sugar Kitchen in Oakland, provide a gateway to exploring the culinary depth and creativity these cities have to offer.

Phoenix vs. Oakland Restaurant Comparison

Finding comfort in a new city often begins with discovering your go-to spots for food. This restaurant comparison, from Phoenix, AZ to Oakland, CA , is designed to ease your transition, guiding you towards new favorite eateries that echo the comfort of your current favorites. Let us help you feel at home, one meal at a time.

PhoenixOaklandWhat You'll Love
Pizzeria BiancoPizzaioloAuthentic wood-fired pizzas with a similar commitment to quality ingredients
Durant'sWood TavernCozy ambiance and high-quality American cuisine, echoing Durant's classic steakhouse vibe
Matt's Big BreakfastBrown Sugar KitchenKnown for their wholesome breakfasts and southern comfort food, akin to Matt's homestyle offerings
TalaveraCosechaBoth restaurants focus on sophisticated, contemporary takes on traditional Mexican dishes
Nobuo at Teeter HouseShakewellOffering innovative and beautifully presented plates that remind one of Nobuo's fusion cuisine
Barrio CaféCalaveraMexican eatery with a similar dedication to authentic flavors and vibrant murals, mirroring Barrio Café's artistic spirit
La Santisima Gourmet Taco ShopCholita LindaCaptivating with their array of tacos and Latin American fare, akin to La Santisima's gourmet twist on street food
Rusconi's American KitchenHomesteadSimilar focus on farm-to-table American cuisine in a comfortable, refined setting
Binkley's RestaurantCommisBoth offer a high-end dining experience with a focus on innovative, seasonal dishes
Little Miss BBQHorn BarbecueBoth are celebrated for their mastery over the art of smoke, serving up some of the finest BBQ meats that evoke a sense of community and home

For those transitioning from Phoenix to Oakland, the shift in culinary scenes might seem intimidating at first glance, but there are fantastic parallels to be found. For example, if Pizzeria Bianco has been your go-to for an artisan pizza fix, Oakland's Pizzaiolo will not disappoint. They excel in creating wood-fired pizzas that are as close to Pizzeria Bianco's in quality and taste as one can get outside of Phoenix. Similarly, BBQ enthusiasts will rejoice in discovering Horn Barbecue in Oakland, where the passion for smoked meats rivals that of Little Miss BBQ, ensuring you can still indulge in top-notch barbecue. It's these kinds of culinary connections that help transform a new city into a place that feels like home.

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Ready to start your move?

Phoenix vs. Oakland Real Estate & Living Facts

When considering a move, real estate stands out as a critical factor. It's vital to compare how the housing landscapes of Phoenix and Oakland cater to your needs and preferences. This comparison will help illuminate the differences in cost, architecture, walkability, and urban lifestyle to better inform your decision.

ComparisonPhoenixOakland
Typical Architecture StyleRanchVictorian
Walkability 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listingSwimming pools, garagesProximity to public transit, eco-friendly features

Moving from Phoenix to Oakland, you'll encounter a significant jump in both housing costs and urban lifestyle offerings. While Phoenix offers more affordable living with a focus on spacious, ranch-style homes often featuring swimming pools and garages, Oakland presents a vibrant urban experience with Victorian architecture and a higher emphasis on walkability and proximity to public transit. The higher cost of living in Oakland reflects its denser, more active urban ambiance and eco-friendly amenities. Deciding between the two depends on your budget, lifestyle preferences, and how you balance the importance of a home's character versus its location and surrounding amenities.

Pet-friendly neighborhoods background image

Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Oakland, CA

1. Rockridge: Known for its welcoming atmosphere, Rockridge offers numerous pet-friendly cafes and a local pet shop, ensuring your furry friends are always pampered.

2. Lake Merritt: This area surrounds a picturesque lake with a 3.4-mile walking path that's perfect for dog-walking, alongside veterinary services easily accessible for your pets' health needs.

3. Montclair Village: Nestled in the hills, Montclair Village is not only scenic but also boasts a pet-friendly environment with holistic pet care, and numerous trails for adventurous walks with your pets.

Phoenix vs. Oakland Weather Considerations

Moving from one city to another brings about significant lifestyle changes, particularly when it comes to weather differences. If you're transitioning from Phoenix, AZ to Oakland, CA, understanding how the climate shifts will help you prepare for your new environment. Below is a comparison chart highlighting the key weather differences to anticipate.

Summer icon
106° / 83°

Phoenix, AZ

73° / 57°

Oakland, CA

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
66° / 45°

Phoenix, AZ

58° / 44°

Oakland, CA

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
8

Phoenix, AZ

23

Oakland, CA

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
0

Phoenix, AZ

0

Oakland, CA

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

ComparisonPhoenixOakland
Air QualityPoorModerate to Good
Natural DisastersHeatwaves, DroughtEarthquakes, Wildfires
Days of Sunshine per Year☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. UV Index🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Avg. Annual Humidity💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦

When you move from Phoenix to Oakland, you'll notice a significant shift in climate. Phoenix's summers are extremely hot with high temperatures reaching well into the 100s, while Oakland enjoys a much milder and more comfortable range in the 70s. Additionally, Oakland experiences higher humidity levels and more rainy days annually compared to the arid conditions of Phoenix. This difference in humidity and rainfall contributes to a diverse range of plant life and consequently, different seasonal allergies to be aware of. Understanding these nuances will help you adjust smoothly to your new surroundings.

Ready to start your move?

Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Phoenix to Oakland

When planning a move from one city to another, understanding the financial implications is crucial. If you're considering relocating from Phoenix, AZ to Oakland, CA , getting to grips with the cost of living, income tax , and housing affordability between these two cities will assist you in making an informed decision.

ComparisonPhoenixOakland
Avg. Household Income$68,435$82,236
Cost of Living Index100.7139.1
State Income Tax2.59 to 4.501.00 to 13.30
Avg. Property Tax0.620.78
Avg. Sales Tax8.69.25
Top 3 IndustriesReal Estate, Healthcare, RetailTechnology, Healthcare, Education
AffluenceModerateHigh
PovertyModerateLow
HomelessnessHighVery High

In comparing Phoenix and Oakland, it's evident that while Oakland boasts a higher average household income, the cost of living is significantly greater. The wide range in state income tax rates in California means you could see a sizeable portion of that increased income going to taxes, especially if you're in a higher bracket. Meanwhile, Phoenix offers a lower average cost of living but also a lower average income, reflecting different economic balances between the two cities. The difference in affluence levels and the industries that dominate each city's economy further illustrate the economic disparities, possibly affecting job opportunities and living standards.

Phoenix vs. Oakland Political & Religious Comparison

Moving from Phoenix, AZ to Oakland, CA entails more than just a change of scenery. It's about transitioning into a new community with its own unique characteristics. This guide provides a comparison of the politics and religious makeup between Phoenix & Oakland , offering you a quick snapshot of what to expect from your new neighbors.

PhoenixOakland
Political Make-upLean conservative, but shifting towards more moderate policies in recent years.Strongly liberal with a high level of engagement in progressive movements.
Local PoliticsDiverse representation with a mix of both Democrat and Republican officials.Mostly Democrat officials, with progressive policies and initiatives.
ReligionMix of religious beliefs, with a significant Christian community. Local ChurchesDiverse religious landscape, strong presence of both Christian and non-Christian faiths. Local Faith Communities

When you move from Phoenix to Oakland, you'll find yourself in a community where progressive politics are the norm and where diversity in both thought and religious belief is valued. Oakland's political scene is deeply influenced by its history of activism, which is reflected in the city's approach to social and environmental issues. This contrasts with Phoenix's more balanced political climate, where conservative roots are gradually giving way to a more moderate stance. Religion in both cities offers a kaleidoscope of faiths, but in Oakland, you'll notice a broader acceptance of different religious practices, mirroring the city’s emphasis on inclusivity and diversity.

Phoenix vs. Oakland Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

Moving from Phoenix, AZ to Oakland, CA requires adjusting to new daily commute realities. This comparison between Phoenix & Oakland will help you better understand what the daily commute and traffic is like in these two cities, providing insights into their transportation ecosystems.

ComparisonPhoenixOakland
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)2530
Traffic Congestion 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦
Availability of Public Transit 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇
Can you get by without car?ChallengingFeasible

While Phoenix offers relatively smoother roads with less average commute time, the city scores lower in public transit availability, making car ownership almost a necessity for a convenient lifestyle. In contrast, Oakland, despite having a slightly higher average commute time and more traffic congestion, boasts a robust public transportation network. This makes living without a car much more feasible, thanks to the extensive coverage of BART and AC Transit services. This difference underscores the importance of considering your commuting preferences and lifestyle when moving between these cities.

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