Best San Francisco to Scottsdale Movers and Practical Moving Guide

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San Francisco to Scottsdale Movers

Moving from the fog-kissed hills of San Francisco to the sun-drenched deserts of Scottsdale marks not just a change of scenery, but a thrilling new chapter in your life. You're leaving behind the iconic Golden Gate for the allure of the Valley of the Sun, trading tech giants for golf courses and art galleries. In this significant journey, it's crucial you trust your move to professional movers who stand out with integrity and efficiency. At Great Guys Moving, we guide you to the best, using an unbiased ranking algorithm, ensuring your adventure starts on the right note.

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Best San Francisco to Scottsdale Moving Companies

Company NameRating QuestionBBB RatingLicenseContact
Sterling Interstate LLC9.75A+Authorized For HHGContact
OCD Moving Services LLC9.66A+Authorized For HHGContact
Bay - L.A. Express Moving9.32DAuthorized For HHGContact
New Beginnings Moving Solutions9.32A+Authorized For PropertyContact
Careful Movers9.31A+Authorized For HHGContact
Phone (800) 787-5428
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Scottsdale to San Francisco guide.

5 Best San Francisco to Scottsdale 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 12/17/2024)

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 12/17/2024)

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
B
Exceptional9.32/10
based on 634+ data points

About Bay - L.A. Express Moving

Bay-L.A. Express Moving is a professional moving company that serves Los Angeles, San Francisco, and the entire Bay Area. Specializing in mo...Read More >>

Services

  • Long-distance moving
  • Small relocation
  • Full packing services

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 8/10/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

1396171 / 530464

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans2
Registered Drivers3
Total Annual Miles Moved60,000 (2022)
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
Careful Movers Logo
Exceptional9.31/10
based on 4,655+ data points

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, a...Read More >>

Services

  • Local Moving
  • Long Distance Moving
  • Office Moving

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 12/17/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

1464935 / 553377

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans14
Registered Drivers14
Total Annual Miles Moved90,000 (2022)
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.

San Francisco vs. Scottsdale Neighborhood Comparison

Relocating introduces an unfamiliar world of neighborhoods, each with its own personality and lifestyle. To ease the transition, we've crafted a comparison of local neighborhoods between San Francisco, CA & Scottsdale, AZ . This guide will help you find a new neighborhood in Scottsdale that feels like home, using the vibrant communities of San Francisco as your baseline.

San FranciscoScottsdaleHow They're Similar
Marina DistrictMcCormick RanchActive lifestyle, scenic views
Hayes ValleyOld Town ScottsdaleBoutique shopping, vibrant nightlife
The CastroSouth ScottsdaleDiverse community, robust nightlife
Mission DistrictArts DistrictRich cultural scene, trendy eateries
Nob HillGainey RanchUpscale living, luxury amenities
Pacific HeightsParadise ValleyExclusive estates, stunning landscapes
Haight-AshburyOld Town ScottsdaleHistoric charm, eclectic vibe
SOMA (South of Market)Downtown ScottsdaleThriving arts, tech hub
Russian HillScottsdale MountainHillside views, quiet community
Noe ValleyKierlandFamily-friendly, peaceful environment

For those drawn to the Marina District for its bustling atmosphere and picturesque setting, McCormick Ranch in Scottsdale offers a similarly active lifestyle with plenty of green spaces such as McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park. If your heart belongs to the vibrant nightlife and unique boutiques of Hayes Valley, you'll find a kindred spirit in Old Town Scottsdale, where establishments like Fashion Square and unique spots such as Kazimierz World Wine Bar await. Furthermore, the steep, hilly vistas of Russian Hill that give way to stunning bay views have a counterpart in Scottsdale Mountain, where the desert landscape offers its own panoramic beauty. This comparison ensures you won’t have to sacrifice the neighborhood characteristics you love while embracing your new city.

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Things to Do in Scottsdale

  • Explore Old Town Scottsdale shops and galleries
  • Hike McDowell Sonoran Preserve trails
  • Relax at Talking Stick Resort pool
  • Play golf at Troon North Golf Club
  • Discover art at Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art
  • Watch a game at Salt River Fields

Ready to start your move?

Pros and Cons of Moving from San Francisco to Scottsdale

Moving cities is a significant life event that comes with its own set of joys and challenges. This guide aims to provide an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of relocating from San Francisco, CA to Scottsdale, AZ . By comparing the cons and pros of leaving San Francisco for Scottsdale, we help you make an informed decision about this life-changing move.

CONs
PROs
San Francisco, CA iconSan Francisco, CA
  • High living cost
  • Foggy weather
  • Traffic congestion
  • Steep hills
  • Dense population
Scottsdale, AZ iconScottsdale, AZ
  • More affordable housing
  • Sunny days
  • Less traffic
  • Flat terrain
  • Spacious living
Scottsdale, AZ iconScottsdale, AZ
  • Less diversity
  • Fewer tech opportunities
  • No ocean nearby
  • Fewer landmarks
  • Different cuisine scene
San Francisco, CA iconSan Francisco, CA
  • Cultural diversity
  • Thriving tech scene
  • Coastal access
  • Iconic landmarks
  • Excellent dining

San Francisco is renowned for its vibrant cultural scene and iconic landmarks such as the Golden Gate Bridge and Alamo Square's Painted Ladies. The city's diverse cuisine is celebrated in establishments like Zuni Café and Benu, offering an eclectic mix for food enthusiasts. In contrast, Scottsdale welcomes newcomers with its sunny weather, more affordable living, and open spaces. The city boasts unique attractions like the Desert Botanical Garden and the bustling downtown area known for its shops and restaurants, such as FnB and Citizen Public House. While Scottsdale may offer fewer tech opportunities and lack the coastal charm of San Francisco, its quality of life, recreational activities, and vibrant Old Town district present a compelling case for considering the move.

San Francisco vs. Scottsdale Food Guide

When relocating, it's crucial to understand the local culture, and food plays a significant part in that. To help you adapt to your new surroundings, we've prepared a comparison of the local cuisine between San Francisco & Scottsdale so you can be more informed about the food scene in your new home.

San FranciscoScottsdale
Most iconic local food itemSourdough BreadNavajo Taco
Most popular meat dishCioppinoCarne Asada
Most popular street food itemMission BurritoTacos
Most popular vegan foodAvocado ToastVegan Tacos
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
  • Tartine Bakery
  • House of Prime Rib
  • Swan Oyster Depot
  • Pizzeria Bianco
  • FnB
  • Virtù Honest Craft
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
Abundance of Food Trucks🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
Foodie Scene🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

San Francisco prides itself on a diverse culinary culture, with the iconic sourdough bread and Cioppino showcasing its coastal influences. Notably, the Mission District is famous for its Mission Burrito, a must-try for residents and visitors alike. On moving to Scottsdale, you'll find a blend of traditional and modern flavors. Scottsdale's Old Town is a hub for food lovers, offering everything from classic Navajo Tacos to contemporary vegan options. Local favorites like Pizzeria Bianco and FnB celebrate Arizona's unique ingredients, ensuring there's always something new and exciting to taste.

San Francisco vs. Scottsdale Restaurant Comparison

Relocating can be a mix of excitement and nostalgia, especially when it comes to leaving behind favorite dining spots. However, discovering new eateries is a thrilling aspect of making a new city feel like home. This restaurant comparison between San Francisco and Scottsdale is designed to seamlessly transition your palate by matching you with your next favorite spots based on your existing preferences.

San FranciscoScottsdaleWhat You'll Love
Zuni CaféVirtù Honest CraftCozy atmosphere with a focus on Mediterranean cuisine
NopaFnBSeasonal New American cuisine with an innovative twist
La TaqueriaThe MissionModern Latin cuisine in a sophisticated setting
Tartine BakeryProofArtisan bread and pastries with a hearty American breakfast
Swan Oyster DepotChula SeafoodFresh, sustainably sourced seafood in a casual environment
State Bird ProvisionsAtlas BistroIntimate setting with a creative American menu
Flour + WaterFat OxItalian-inspired dishes with a focus on fresh pasta
The French Laundry (Yountville, nearby SF)SelFine dining experience with a focus on French and American cuisine
Bi-Rite CreamerySweet RepublicArtisan ice cream with unique flavors
Mission Chinese FoodChino BandidoChinese-Mexican fusion with a cult following

Exploring Scottsdale's dining scene is an adventure, especially when you start with places that remind you of San Francisco's eclectic tastes. For example, Virtù Honest Craft mirrors Zuni Café's commitment to Mediterranean flavors, incorporating local ingredients into each dish. Similarly, The Mission stands out for its innovative Latin cuisine, much like La Taqueria's legendary offerings but with a Scottsdale twist. On the sweeter side, Sweet Republic challenges traditional dessert norms with its artisan ice cream, a delightful counterpart to Bi-Rite Creamery's San Francisco charm. In essence, Scottsdale's culinary scene promises a diverse and vibrant gastronomical journey that pays homage to the rich culinary traditions of San Francisco.

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Ready to start your move?

San Francisco vs. Scottsdale Real Estate & Living Facts

Deciding to relocate involves many considerations, with real estate between San Francisco and Scottsdale being a crucial factor. Understanding how housing costs, styles, and lifestyle elements compare will help you make an informed decision. Let's delve into a detailed comparison.

ComparisonSan FranciscoScottsdale
Typical Architecture StyleVictorian and EdwardianModern and Pueblo Revival
Walkability 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listingBay views, rooftop decksSwimming pools, mountain views

When comparing San Francisco to Scottsdale, the difference in median home prices and rent is prominent, reflecting the higher cost of living in San Francisco. While both cities boast distinctive architecture, San Francisco's historical Victorian and Edwardian styles contrast sharply with Scottsdale's contemporary designs, especially the Spanish-influenced Pueblo Revival. Walkability in San Francisco is significantly higher, making it a more pedestrian-friendly environment. However, Scottsdale offers its own charm with a laid-back desert lifestyle, underscored by amenities like swimming pools and breathtaking mountain views, catering to those who prefer a more relaxed, spacious setting.

Pet-friendly neighborhoods background image

Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Scottsdale, AZ

1. McCormick Ranch: This neighborhood boasts miles of greenbelt perfect for walking your dog, along with several dog parks and pet-friendly cafes.

2. Old Town Scottsdale: With its pet-friendly shops and numerous outdoor dining options that welcome pets, Old Town is a paradise for pet owners.

3. DC Ranch: Offering an array of community parks and trails, along with pet-friendly events and amenities, DC Ranch ensures your pet is as much a part of the community as you are.

San Francisco vs. Scottsdale Weather Considerations

When considering a move from San Francisco, CA to Scottsdale, AZ, it's crucial to understand how the weather compares between these locations. Knowing what kind of weather to expect can greatly impact your transition and daily life. This comparison will highlight differences in climate and atmospheric conditions, making your move smoother.

Summer icon
67°F / 53°F

San Francisco, CA

104°F / 81°F

Scottsdale, AZ

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
57°F / 46°F

San Francisco, CA

68°F / 45°F

Scottsdale, AZ

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
23.65

San Francisco, CA

8.03

Scottsdale, AZ

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
0

San Francisco, CA

0

Scottsdale, AZ

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

ComparisonSan FranciscoScottsdale
Air QualityGoodModerate
Natural DisastersEarthquakes, WildfiresHeatwaves, Dust Storms
Days of Sunshine per Year☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. UV Index🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Avg. Annual Humidity💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦

Moving from the mild, foggy climate of San Francisco to the hot, dry desert of Scottsdale presents a significant adjustment. San Francisco's summer temperatures are relatively cool, especially when compared to Scottsdale's intense heat, highlighting the need for air conditioning and sun protection in Arizona. Scottsdale's lower humidity level and higher UV index indicate a much drier atmosphere, which can affect your daily hydration and skincare habits. Additionally, understanding the prevalent natural disasters in each area helps with preparedness. While both cities boast good to moderate air quality, the specific allergens may change, possibly affecting sensitive individuals differently.

Ready to start your move?

Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from San Francisco to Scottsdale

When planning to relocate, it’s crucial to compare the cost of living and financial environment between your current city and your future home. San Francisco to Scottsdale provides a stark illustration of how money and finance considerations can impact your transition. Knowing what to expect will help you prepare financially for the move.

ComparisonSan FranciscoScottsdale
Avg. Household Income$121,826$99,097
Cost of Living Index164101.2
State Income Tax13.3 max4.50 max
Avg. Property Tax0.60.62
Avg. Sales Tax8.57.95
Top 3 IndustriesTechnology, Finance, TourismTechnology, Healthcare, Tourism
AffluenceVery HighHigh
PovertyLowLower
HomelessnessHighLow

Moving from San Francisco to Scottsdale, you'll encounter significant changes in the cost of living and tax rates. While the average household income is higher in San Francisco, the overall cost of living and state income tax are considerably lower in Scottsdale, stretching your dollar further. The cost of living index demonstrates that Scottsdale is less expensive, offering a more affordable lifestyle without sacrificing the quality of services or lifestyle options. Property and sales taxes are relatively comparable, but the lower state income tax in Arizona means more take-home pay. Additionally, despite the difference in top industries, both cities have thriving economies supported by technology and tourism, providing ample employment opportunities.

San Francisco vs. Scottsdale Political & Religious Comparison

As you plan your move from San Francisco, CA to Scottsdale, AZ, it's vital to grasp a quick snapshot of the communities you're transitioning between. This comparison will offer you a glimpse into the political and religious makeup of the residents of San Francisco & Scottsdale, helping you understand the cultural and ideological landscapes of your old and new homes.

San FranciscoScottsdale
Political Make-upLiberal/DemocraticConservative/Republican
Local PoliticsProgressive policiesMore traditional policies
ReligionMulticultural and diverseDominantly Christian

In moving from San Francisco to Scottsdale, you're transitioning from an environment known for its liberal and progressive policies to a community that typically leans more conservative. This shift is not only reflected in the political landscape but in local cultural and social norms as well. While San Francisco's religious scene is highly diverse, hosting a wide array of faiths and places of worship, Scottsdale has a more pronounced Christian presence, influencing everything from community events to local politics. Understanding these nuances will help you better acclimate to your new community.

San Francisco vs. Scottsdale Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

Moving from San Francisco, CA, to Scottsdale, AZ, requires understanding the differences in daily commute and traffic. This comparison of the traffic and transportation options between San Francisco & Scottsdale will help you adjust to your new home.

ComparisonSan FranciscoScottsdale
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)3424
Traffic Congestion 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦
Availability of Public Transit 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇
Can you get by without car?YesNo

While San Francisco offers a robust public transit system allowing residents to conveniently navigate the city without a car, Scottsdale's public transit options are much more limited, making a car almost a necessity for daily commuting. The average commute time in San Francisco is significantly higher, reflecting the city's dense urban environment and traffic congestion. In contrast, Scottsdale presents a more relaxed commute, with less congestion and shorter travel times. Adjusting to the transportation differences between these two cities could require some planning, especially if you're used to relying on public transportation.

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