Moving from San Francisco to Honolulu?

5 Best Movers and Your Ultimate Moving Guide

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San Francisco to Honolulu Movers

Relocating from San Francisco, the Fog City, to Honolulu, the idyllic paradise of Aloha, represents more than a physical move; it's a journey to a new chapter in your life. You're trading the iconic Golden Gate for tropical beaches and a city known for tech innovation for one steeped in rich culture and serene landscapes. Given the vast distance and the importance of your belongings making the journey safely, it’s crucial to select trusted and reliable professional movers. We pride ourselves on connecting you with the best, using an unbiased ranking algorithm to ensure your move is in the safest hands.

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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Honolulu to San Francisco guide.

5 Best San Francisco to Honolulu Movers

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

#1
OCD Moving Services LLC Logo
Exceptional

based on 3,273+ data points

El Sobrante, CA
Local Moving, Long Distance Moving, Commercial Moving See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/10/2024)

USDOT: 2597230 Verify

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 >>

top 3 san francisco 2024 ocd moving services llc image
top 10 ranked movers in san francisco 2023 ocd moving services llc image
top 10 ranked movers in oakland 2022 ocd moving services llc image
#2
Kora Moving Logo
Exceptional

based on 1,517+ data points

San Bruno, CA
Local moves, Long distance moves, Packing and unpacking See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/11/2024)

USDOT: 3139436 Verify

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 >>

top 10 san bruno 2024 kora moving image
top 10 ranked movers in san bruno 2023 kora moving image
#3
B
Exceptional

based on 634+ data points

San Francisco, CA
Long-distance moving, Small relocation , Full packing services See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 8/10/2024)

USDOT: 1396171 Verify

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 >>

top 10 el cerrito 2024 bay la express moving image
#4
Ewa Moving Co. Logo
Very Good

based on 209+ data points

Ewa Beach, HI
Residential moving services in Oahu, Local moving services in Oahu, Hourly rate moving services in Oahu See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/11/2024)

USDOT: 3786678 Verify

About Ewa Moving Co.

Ewa Moving Co. is a locally-owned and operated moving company based in Ewa Beach, Hawaii. The company provides residential and commercial mo...Read More >>

#5
Mint Moving and Cleaning Solutions LLC Logo
Good

based on 73+ data points

Honolulu, HI
Local Moves, Long Distance Moves, Office Moves See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 1/25/2024)

USDOT: 3396143 Verify

About Mint Moving and Cleaning Solutions LLC

Mint Moving & Cleaning Solutions LLC is a locally owned and operated business based in Honolulu, HI, offering services throughout all Ha...Read More >>

Relocating from San Francisco to Honolulu Neighborhood Guide

Relocating can be daunting, especially when the cities are as vibrant yet distinctive as San Francisco, CA, and Honolulu, HI. To ease this transition, we've crafted a comparison of the local neighborhoods between San Francisco, CA & Honolulu, HI , designed to help you find a new home that resonates with the unique character of your old one. Whether you're moving for work, family, or adventure, this guide aims to help you familiarize yourself with an unknown city using your current city as a baseline.

San FranciscoHonolulu
The MissionKaimuki

Diverse, rich in culture

Marina DistrictHawaii Kai

Waterfront living, upscale

Haight-AshburyKaka'ako

Vibrant, artsy community

Nob HillManoa

Historic, prestigious homes

SOMA (South of Market)Downtown Honolulu

Urban, dynamic locale

North BeachWaikiki

Touristy, beachside vibe

Castro DistrictMoiliili

Inclusive, community-oriented

Pacific HeightsKahala

Luxurious, serene neighborhoods

Financial DistrictBishop Street

Business hub, modern

Russian HillTantalus

Scenic views, exclusive area

In drawing parallels between neighborhoods from San Francisco, CA, and Honolulu, HI, the charm and character of each area come alive through unique local sights and amenities. For instance, the artistic and vibrant energy of Haight-Ashbury finds a kinship with Kaka'ako, Honolulu, known for its cultural hubs and urban arts district, including popular spots like SALT at Our Kakaʻako. Similarly, if the upscale, waterfront lifestyle of the Marina District appeals to you, you'll find a familiar flair in Hawaii Kai, Honolulu, celebrated for its marina-front properties and outdoor activities like those offered at Hawaii Kai Marina. Nature enthusiasts who appreciate the scenic views and quietude of Russian Hill might find a new haven in Tantalus, Honolulu, with breathtaking vistas and paths like the Tantalus Arboretum Trail inviting peaceful exploration and reflection.

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Things to Do in Honolulu

  • Explore Diamond Head State Monument
  • Swim at Waikiki Beach
  • Visit the Pearl Harbor National Memorial
  • Shop at Ala Moana Center
  • Enjoy Honolulu Night Market
  • Discover Bishop Museum

Ready to start your move?

Pros and Cons of Moving from San Francisco to Honolulu

Moving from one city to another is a journey filled with both excitement and uncertainty. This comparison aims to provide a balanced perspective on transitioning from San Francisco, CA to Honolulu, HI , carefully weighing the advantages against the disadvantages. It's about understanding the complexities and joys of your potential new home while acknowledging what you might leave behind.

CONs
PROs
San Francisco, CA iconSan Francisco, CA
  • High living costs
  • Chilly summers
  • Dense urban environment
  • Frequent fog
  • Less cultural diversity
Honolulu, HI iconHonolulu, HI
  • Slower pace of life
  • Warmer climate
  • Beach access
  • Sunshine year-round
  • Rich cultural tapestry
Honolulu, HI iconHonolulu, HI
  • Higher grocery prices
  • Island isolation
  • Less tech opportunities
  • Limited nightlife
  • Dependent on cars
San Francisco, CA iconSan Francisco, CA
  • Thriving tech scene
  • Vibrant urban life
  • Abundance of parks
  • Diverse food scene
  • Strong public transit

Moving from the hustle and bustle of San Francisco to the laid-back paradise of Honolulu offers a notable change in lifestyle. While you may miss the vibrant, tech-savvy communities around places like South Park, or enjoying a chilly morning jog through Golden Gate Park, Honolulu’s welcoming embrace of Aloha spirit, embodied by iconic locales such as Diamond Head State Monument and North Shore, presents an opportunity to immerse oneself in a vibrant cultural tapestry and a perpetually sunny climate. The transition might mean swapping the dense, foggy streets and the eclectic food scene of neighborhoods like the Mission District for the serene beaches, local markets, and unique Hawaiian cuisine found in areas like Kakaako. However, embracing Honolulu’s slower pace of life means not only adapting to its island idiosyncrasies but also discovering the profound beauty and tranquility of your new island home.

Food Scene Guide When Moving from San Francisco to Honolulu

Food plays a pivotal role in understanding the local culture and lifestyle of any area. To help you grasp what culinary delights await you, we're embarking on a comparison of the local cuisine between San Francisco & Honolulu. This will give you a better sense of the food scene in your new home.

San FranciscoHonolulu

Most iconic local food item

Sourdough BreadPoke

Most popular meat dish

CioppinoSpam Musubi

Most popular street food item

Mission BurritoShave Ice

Most popular vegan food

Avocado ToastAcai Bowl

Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city

  • Tartine Bakery
  • Zuni Café
  • The Progress
  • Helena's Hawaiian Food
  • Roy's Hawaii
  • MW Restaurant

Fitness/Health Conscientiousness

98

Abundance of Food Trucks

87

Foodie Scene

109

Vegan Friendly

98

In San Francisco, you can sample the famous sourdough bread at bakeries like Tartine Bakery, or dive into the rich culinary tapestry with a bowl of cioppino, a seafood stew that's a testament to the city's maritime heritage. The Mission District is particularly famous for its Mission Burritos, a must-try for street food enthusiasts. Conversely, Honolulu offers a unique blend of indigenous and Asian influences, with poke bowls and Spam Musubi emblematic of its culinary diversity. You'll find an abundance of fresh, tropical flavors across the city, particularly in the vibrant neighborhoods of Waikiki and Kaimuki. Shave ice, not to be confused with mainland snow cones, is a refreshing treat perfect for the island's warm climate.

Restaurant Guide for Moving from San Francisco to Honolulu

When relocating from San Francisco, CA to Honolulu, HI, settling into your new city includes finding restaurants that feel like home. This comparison aims to ease your transition by matching your favorite San Francisco eateries with their Honolulu counterparts, helping you discover your next go-to dining spots.

Tartine BakeryKona Coffee Purveyors

Artisanal baking and high-quality coffee

Zuni CaféTown

Farm-to-table dining with a focus on local ingredients

Nopa12th Ave Grill

Similar emphasis on organic fare and ambient setting

La TaqueriaTaqueria El Ranchero

Authentic tacos and a vibrant atmosphere

Gary DankoLa Mer

Luxurious dining experience with exceptional service

State Bird ProvisionsThe Pig and the Lady

Innovative and eclectic cuisine

Mission Chinese FoodHelena's Hawaiian Food

Unique local flavors and a cult following

Swan Oyster DepotTamura's Fine Wine & Liquors

Fresh seafood deli section

The Slanted DoorThe Pig & The Lady

Fusion flavors that are creative and bold

Brenda's French Soul FoodSoul de Cuba Cafe

A taste of soul food with a tropical twist

While adjusting to Honolulu's vibrant scene, you'll find that Kona Coffee Purveyors offers a comforting similarity to Tartine Bakery, serving meticulously crafted coffee alongside exquisite bakery items. Meanwhile, the farm-to-table ethos that underpins Town mirrors Zuni Café’s commitment to fresh, local ingredients, promising a seamless transition for food enthusiasts. For those who seek the familiar buzz and flavor of a San Francisco night out, Taqueria El Ranchero presents a slice of La Taqueria’s much-loved taco culture in the heart of Honolulu. Each establishment has been chosen for its ability to mirror the unique qualities of your favorite San Francisco spots, ensuring your new dining adventures in Honolulu are as fulfilling as those you cherished back home.

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Ready to start your move?

Real Estate Facts to Know Before Moving from San Francisco to Honolulu

When planning a relocation, understanding the real estate landscape is crucial. We've compared the essential housing aspects between San Francisco, CA and Honolulu, HI to highlight costs, architectural styles, and the urban lifestyle. This comparison aims to provide a clearer picture of what to expect in your potential new city.

Moving from San Francisco to Honolulu, you'll notice a difference in housing costs, with median home prices and rents significantly lower in Honolulu. However, San Francisco offers a more walkable and urban lifestyle, reflecting in its higher walkability and urban lifestyle scores. Meanwhile, Honolulu boasts unique Hawaiian Plantation and modern architecture, emphasizing its rich cultural history and tropical setting. Real estate listings in Honolulu often highlight ocean views and beach access, contrasting with San Francisco’s emphasis on city views and proximity to the tech industry. This comparison sheds light on how each city's unique characteristics influence its real estate market, providing valuable insights for potential movers.

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Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Honolulu, HI

1. Kaka'ako: This vibrant neighborhood boasts numerous pet-friendly parks like Mother Waldron Park, along with several pet care options including Petco for your furry friend's needs.

2. Waikiki: Known for its world-famous beaches, Waikiki welcomes pets with open paws, offering dog-friendly areas along the beach and pet-friendly dining options like Barefoot Beach Cafe.

3. Manoa: This lush and serene neighborhood is a paradise for pets, featuring ample green spaces and walking trails such as those found at Manoa Valley District Park, perfect for the active pet and owner alike.

Weather Considerations for Moving from San Francisco to Honolulu

When planning a move from one city to another, understanding how the weather might change is crucial. This comparison provides insights into what you can expect when moving from San Francisco, CA to Honolulu, HI. It's not just about packing your belongings but also preparing for a new climate.

Summer icon
68° / 55°

San Francisco, CA

87° / 75°

Honolulu, HI

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
57° / 46°

San Francisco, CA

80° / 65°

Honolulu, HI

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
20.7

San Francisco, CA

17.1

Honolulu, HI

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
0

San Francisco, CA

0

Honolulu, HI

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

Moving from San Francisco to Honolulu means embracing a warmer climate with more sunny days and a higher average UV index, indicating a need for regular sunscreen application. While both cities enjoy good air quality, the shift in humidity and seasonal allergies may require adjustments in your daily life. Furthermore, the potential for different natural disasters (earthquakes vs. hurricanes and tsunamis) suggests a need for awareness and preparedness to new environmental challenges. Curating your wardrobe to accommodate warmer weather and planning for the mild winter temperatures of Honolulu will make the transition smoother.

Ready to start your move?

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

When planning a move from one city to another, such as from San Francisco, CA to Honolulu, HI, it's crucial to weigh the financial implications. Understanding the comparison between these cities in terms of money and finance can ease the transition and set realistic expectations for your new lifestyle.

Moving from San Francisco to Honolulu, you'll observe a notable difference in the average household income and cost of living, with San Francisco ranking higher in both categories. However, this discrepancy is somewhat mitigated by Honolulu's lower property and sales tax rates, contributing to a distinct economic landscape. The predominant industries in each city also indicate different employment opportunities and economic priorities. Furthermore, while both cities grapple with high homelessness rates, the relative affluence and poverty levels present a contrasting socio-economic picture, shaping each city's unique financial and social challenges and advantages.

Political & Religious Comparison between San Francisco, CA and Honolulu, HI

This guide provides a quick comparison to help you understand the political and religious makeup of San Francisco & Honolulu . This section aims to give you a snapshot of what the typical population feels about politics and religion, offering insights into your new city.

San FranciscoHonolulu

Political Make-up

Heavily DemocraticPrimarily Democratic

Local Politics

Progressive policies, emphasis on social issuesMix of progressive and moderate, with focus on environmental and cultural preservation

Religion

Diverse, with no single denomination dominatingDiverse, strong Christian and Buddhist presence

While both San Francisco and Honolulu exhibit a Democratic political leaning, the approach to local politics and governance can vary. San Francisco has become known for its progressive stances on various social issues, while Honolulu adopts a blend of progressive and moderate policies, heavily emphasizing environmental and cultural preservation. This respect for the environment aligns with the city's strong Native Hawaiian cultural influence. Regarding religion, both cities enjoy a rich diversity. However, Honolulu stands out with its significant Christian and Buddhist communities, reflecting its unique cultural and historical backdrop. This diversity in political and religious landscapes between your current and future homes enriches your living experience, offering new perspectives and communities to explore.

Traffic and Public Transit Considerations for Moving from San Francisco to Honolulu

Understanding the daily commute and traffic conditions is crucial when relocating. This comparison between San Francisco & Honolulu will help you grasp what to expect in terms of driving and transiting in these cities.

San FranciscoHonolulu
3427

Avg Commute Time (in minutes)

87

Traffic Congestion (out of 10)

96

Availability of Public Transit (out of 10)

YesYes, but more challenging

Can you get by without car?

Understanding the contrasts in commute times and the extent of traffic congestion between San Francisco and Honolulu is essential. San Francisco, with its slightly longer average commute time and higher traffic congestion rating, contrasts with Honolulu's somewhat more relaxed pace. However, San Francisco boasts a more robust public transit system, rated highly at 9 out of 10, making it easier to live without a car compared to Honolulu. In Honolulu, while you can manage without a vehicle, the lower availability score of public transit at 6 suggests it might be more cumbersome. This difference may significantly impact your daily life and convenience in moving around the city.

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