Best San Francisco to Minneapolis Movers and Practical Moving Guide

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San Francisco to Minneapolis Movers

Moving from the tech-savvy hills of San Francisco, CA, to the art-filled streets of Minneapolis, MN, embodies a thrilling life adventure. You're exchanging the Golden Gate for the City of Lakes, leaving behind the fog for snowy winters and vibrant summers. In this significant transition, it's crucial to entrust your journey to reliable professional movers, ensuring your belongings safely navigate the long distance. With our carefully curated selection of top-rated movers, we make your move smooth and trustworthy.

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Best San Francisco to Minneapolis Moving Companies

Company NameRating QuestionBBB RatingLicenseContact
OCD Moving Services LLC9.66A+Authorized For HHGContact
Metro Movers9.49NRAuthorized For PropertyContact
Bay - L.A. Express Moving9.32DAuthorized For HHGContact
Careful Movers9.31A+Authorized For HHGContact
General Expert Moving Service LLC9.27NRAuthorized For HHGContact
Phone (800) 787-5428
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Minneapolis to San Francisco guide.

5 Best San Francisco to Minneapolis Moving Companies

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

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
1
Metro Movers Logo
Exceptional9.49/10
based on 1,008+ data points

About Metro Movers

Metro Movers, a licensed and insured transport and logistics company in Minnesota, was founded by two childhood friends with a shared vision...Read More >>

Services

  • Residential Moving
  • Business Moving
  • Long Distance Residential Moving

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 12/18/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3742268 / 1503884

Authorized For Property

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans3
Registered Drivers3
Total Annual Miles Moved16,000 (2023)
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
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
4
General Expert Moving Service LLC Logo
Exceptional9.27/10
based on 528+ data points

About General Expert Moving Service LLC

General Expert Moving Service LLC is a family-owned moving company based in Minnesota. It started with two brothers and a pickup truck back ...Read More >>

Services

  • Cheap moving
  • Local moving
  • Long-distance moving

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2846187 / 1285395

Authorized For HHG

Carrier/Shipper

Registered Trucks/Vans5
Registered Drivers24
Total Annual Miles Moved30,000 (2024)
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. Minneapolis Neighborhood Comparison

Embarking on a move from one city to another can be daunting, especially when it comes to finding a neighborhood that feels like home. This guide aims to ease that transition by offering a comparison of the local neighborhoods between San Francisco, CA & Minneapolis, MN . We'll explore the top neighborhoods in San Francisco and their Minneapolis counterparts, helping you find your next community.

San FranciscoMinneapolisHow They're Similar
The MissionNortheast MinneapolisVibrant arts and food scene
Haight-AshburyUptown MinneapolisBoasts a progressive spirit with eclectic shops
Noe ValleyFultonFamily-friendly with a mix of quiet streets and local shops
Marina DistrictLinden HillsNear lakes, with trendy boutiques and eateries
SOMA (South of Market)North LoopHub for tech, arts, and entertainment
Pacific HeightsKenwoodUpscale, with grand homes and refined ambience
Financial DistrictDowntown MinneapolisEconomic center with high-rises and hustle
Outer SunsetLongfellowLaid-back vibe, access to nature and parks
Nob HillLowry HillHistoric architecture with a luxury feel
Mission BaySt. Anthony MainWaterfront views, modern living spaces

For those moving from San Francisco's bustling Mission District with its rich mural art and culinary diversity, Northeast Minneapolis will feel like slipping into a familiar coat, offering a similar rich arts scene and an array of dining experiences like those found at Psycho Suzi's or Betty Danger's Country Club. Similarly, the serene and upscale atmosphere of Pacific Heights finds a parallel in Kenwood, where strolls around Lake of the Isles echo walks in Lafayette Park. Meanwhile, the tech and arts vibrancy of SOMA is mirrored in the North Loop, known for its innovative companies and cultural spots like ACME Comedy Company. These correlations between neighborhoods not only ease the transition but enrich the experience of cultivating a new sense of 'home'.

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Things to Do in Minneapolis

  • Explore the Walker Art Center
  • Picnic by Minnehaha Falls
  • Shop at Mall of America
  • Visit Mill City Museum
  • Bike along the Mississippi River
  • Spend a day at Minnesota Zoo
  • Catch a Twins game at Target Field

Ready to start your move?

Pros and Cons of Moving from San Francisco to Minneapolis

Moving from one city to another presents a blend of challenges and rewards. This guide is designed to give you an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of relocating from San Francisco, CA to Minneapolis, MN . By comparing the cons and pros, you'll get a balanced view of what to expect in your new home.

CONs
PROs
San Francisco, CA iconSan Francisco, CA
  • High living costs
  • Crowded
  • Frequent fog
  • Less snow
Minneapolis, MN iconMinneapolis, MN
  • More affordable housing
  • Less crowded
  • Distinct seasons
  • Winter activities
Minneapolis, MN iconMinneapolis, MN
  • Smaller tech scene
  • Less variety
  • Fewer landmarks
  • No ocean
San Francisco, CA iconSan Francisco, CA
  • Tech hub
  • Diverse cuisine
  • Iconic landmarks
  • Coastal city

In transitioning from the bustling tech and cultural hub of San Francisco to the serene and welcoming ambiance of Minneapolis, you'll trade iconic landmarks like the Golden Gate Bridge for the scenic beauty of the Chain of Lakes and the urban greenery of Minnehaha Park. While you might miss the myriad of dining options that cities like San Francisco offer, Minneapolis holds its own with gems like Spoon and Stable and vibrant areas like the North Loop. Furthermore, the change in climate introduces you to a host of winter activities uncommon in California, from ice fishing on Lake Harriet to cross-country skiing in Theodore Wirth Park. This move invites a lifestyle change that extends beyond just the seasonal wardrobe adjustments, offering a fresh perspective amidst the rich cultural and natural landscape of Minneapolis.

San Francisco vs. Minneapolis Food Guide

Understanding the local food culture is vital when relocating, as it's a significant aspect of what it's like to live in a certain area. In this guide, we'll delve into a comparison of the local cuisine between San Francisco & Minneapolis, providing you with a better grasp of the food scene in your new city.

San FranciscoMinneapolis
Most iconic local food itemSourdough BreadJuicy Lucy
Most popular meat dishCioppinoWalleye
Most popular street food itemMission BurritoHmong Sausage
Most popular vegan foodAvocado ToastVegan Hotdish
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
    • Tartine Bakery
    • Zuni Café
    • Gary Danko
    • Spoon and Stable
    • Matt's Bar
    • Seasons
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
Abundance of Food Trucks🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
Foodie Scene🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

When you move from San Francisco to Minneapolis, you'll transition from the seafood and sourdough haven of the Golden Gate to the comfort foods and innovative vegan options of the North Star State. San Francisco's iconic sourdough bread can trace its origins back to the Gold Rush days, while Minneapolis prides itself on the Juicy Lucy, a cheese-stuffed burger that has become a local legend. While both cities boast a vibrant food scene, San Francisco's boasts a slightly higher health and vegan friendliness, reflected in its abundance of fresh produce and vegan restaurants. In Minneapolis, you can dive into the local cuisine by visiting Spoon and Stable for a fine dining experience or Matt's Bar for a more laid-back, iconic Juicy Lucy. Each city offers a unique food scene, deeply intertwined with its cultural fabric and local traditions.

San Francisco vs. Minneapolis Restaurant Comparison

Finding your new go-to spots in a new city can make it feel like home. This restaurant comparison between San Francisco and Minneapolis will help you find your next favorite eateries, using your current favorites as a guide.

San FranciscoMinneapolisWhat You'll Love
Zuni CaféSpoon and Stablesophisticated dining with a focus on local ingredients
NopaAlmaoffers a creative, seasonally inspired menu in a casual yet refined setting
Tartine BakeryPatisserie 46renowned for its outstanding baked goods and a similar commitment to quality
La TaqueriaPajaritomodern Mexican cuisine and a laid-back atmosphere that echoes La Taqueria’s vibe
Swan Oyster DepotSmack Shackknown for its fresh seafood and casual, fun dining experience
Gary DankoThe Capital Grilleoffers a fine dining experience with a focus on steak and wine, akin to Gary Danko's elegance
Mission Chinese FoodWorld Street Kitchenbrings a fresh take on global street foods, similar to the innovative dishes at Mission Chinese
Foreign CinemaBachelor Farmercombines fine dining with a unique atmosphere, where both locations put an emphasis on the dining experience
Brenda's French Soul FoodBrasa Premium Rotisserieoffers soul-warming dishes and a cozy atmosphere reminiscent of Brenda's
Bi-Rite CreameryMilkjam Creameryequally famous for its creative and delicious ice cream flavors

When the craving for comforting French soul food strikes, Brasa Premium Rotisserie in Minneapolis is your go-to, drawing comparisons to San Francisco's beloved Brenda's with its hearty, satisfying dishes and inviting ambiance. Similarly, lovers of fine dining will find Spoon and Stable a delight, offering a sophisticated menu and atmosphere that would remind one of Zuni Café, highlighting a passionately curated dining experience. For those enchanted by San Francisco's innovative and globally inspired Mission Chinese Food, World Street Kitchen presents an excellent alternative, embracing a vibrant, eclectic menu that captures the spirit of ingenuity in food. All these Minneapolis establishments mirror the diverse and exciting culinary landscape of San Francisco, ensuring a seamless transition for food enthusiasts.

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Ready to start your move?

San Francisco vs. Minneapolis Real Estate & Living Facts

Real estate is a crucial aspect of relocating, and comprehending how housing, costs, and lifestyle metrics compare between your current city and your potential new home is essential. This comparison focuses on real estate aspects of San Francisco vs. Minneapolis , providing a clearer picture of what to expect in terms of living conditions and urban lifestyle.

ComparisonSan FranciscoMinneapolis
Typical Architecture StyleVictorian, ModernArts & Crafts, Bungalow
Walkability 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listingViews, Tech-friendlyLakeside, Family-friendly

When comparing housing between San Francisco and Minneapolis, several key differences emerge, notably in the median home price and monthly rent, reflecting San Francisco's significantly higher cost of living. However, San Francisco scores higher in terms of walkability and urban lifestyle, indicative of its dense, vibrant urban environment. Minneapolis, while more affordable, offers a different appeal, showcasing more space, a family-friendly atmosphere, and proximity to lakes and green spaces as highlighted in real estate listings. Notably, the architecture in Minneapolis leans towards the Arts & Crafts and Bungalow styles, providing a distinct contrast to San Francisco's iconic Victorian and modernist buildings. This juxtaposition of cost, lifestyle, and architectural styles adds depth to your understanding of what each city offers, helping inform your decision-making process.

Pet-friendly neighborhoods background image

Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Minneapolis, MN

1. Linden Hills: Known for its quaint and walkable streets, you'll find numerous pet-friendly cafes and the nearby Lake Harriet perfect for dog walking.

2. Uptown: With its vibrant mix of parks like Lake of the Isles, pet stores, and patio dining options, Uptown is a haven for pets and their owners alike.

3. Northeast Minneapolis: This artsy neighborhood boasts pet-friendly breweries like Sociable Cider Werks, along with plenty of green spaces and riverfront paths for leisurely walks.

San Francisco vs. Minneapolis Weather Considerations

Moving from one city to another means adapting to a new climate. This comparison chart highlights how the weather in San Francisco, CA, and Minneapolis, MN differ, equipping you with the knowledge to prepare for your relocation.

Summer icon
67°F / 53°F

San Francisco, CA

83°F / 63°F

Minneapolis, MN

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
57°F / 46°F

San Francisco, CA

24°F / 9°F

Minneapolis, MN

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
23.65

San Francisco, CA

30.61

Minneapolis, MN

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
0

San Francisco, CA

54

Minneapolis, MN

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

ComparisonSan FranciscoMinneapolis
Air QualityGoodModerate
Natural DisastersEarthquakesBlizzards, Tornadoes
Days of Sunshine per Year☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. UV Index🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Avg. Annual Humidity💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦

Understanding the climate differences between San Francisco and Minneapolis is essential for your move. San Francisco's mild climate with cool summers and gentle winters contrasts sharply with Minneapolis's hot summers and frigid winters. Notably, the winter temperatures in Minneapolis can plunge significantly below freezing, requiring a well-insulated wardrobe. Furthermore, the risk of natural disasters shifts from earthquakes in San Francisco to blizzards and tornadoes in Minneapolis, emphasizing different preparedness needs. Adjusting to the significant increase in annual snowfall in Minneapolis, from virtually none in San Francisco, represents a considerable change in lifestyle and possibly your daily commute. Preparing for these adjustments will make your transition smoother.

Ready to start your move?

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

Relocating from one city to another requires an understanding of how the cost of living, taxes, and income levels differ. This comparison between San Francisco and Minneapolis gives insights into the financial adjustments you may need to make when moving.

ComparisonSan FranciscoMinneapolis
Avg. Household Income$121,826$69,397
Cost of Living Index164111
State Income Tax13.39.85
Avg. Property Tax0.671.28
Avg. Sales Tax8.57.78
Top 3 IndustriesTechnology, Finance, TourismManufacturing, Medical Devices, Education
AffluenceVery HighModerate
PovertyModerateLower
HomelessnessHighModerate

When moving from San Francisco to Minneapolis, you'll find significant differences in financial realities. The average household income in San Francisco far exceeds that of Minneapolis, reflecting the higher cost of living and the presence of high-paying industries like technology and finance. However, Minneapolis offers a more affordable living experience, with a cost of living index more than half lower than San Francisco's. Despite this affordability, Minneapolis maintains a robust economy with strong sectors in manufacturing and medical devices. Adjusting to the tax landscape will also be part of the transition, with both state income and sales taxes being lower in Minneapolis, thus potentially stretching your dollar further.

San Francisco vs. Minneapolis Political & Religious Comparison

When planning your move from San Francisco to Minneapolis, understanding the local dynamics can be invaluable. This comparative glance provides insight into the comparison of the politics between San Francisco & Minneapolis and the religious landscape, offering a snapshot into what makes each city unique.

San FranciscoMinneapolis
Political Make-upLiberalLiberal
Local PoliticsDemocratic strongholdDemocratic stronghold
ReligionDiverse; significant non-religious communityDiverse; strong Christian community

Both San Francisco and Minneapolis are known for their liberal political landscapes, each being a stronghold for the Democratic Party. This similarity in political makeup might make the transition smoother for you. However, when it comes to religion, there's a notable contrast. San Francisco boasts a significant non-religious community alongside its religious diversity, possibly linked to its vibrant LGBTQ+ scene and progressive values. Minneapolis, while also diverse, has a stronger prevalence of Christian communities. Understanding these nuances can help you better integrate into your new city.

San Francisco vs. Minneapolis Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

Preparing for a move? Understanding the differences in the daily commute and traffic between San Francisco and Minneapolis is crucial. This comparison will highlight what to expect from each city's traffic and transportation options, helping you make an informed decision for your new life.

ComparisonSan FranciscoMinneapolis
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)3425
Traffic Congestion 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦
Availability of Public Transit 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇
Can you get by without car?YesSomewhat

When moving from San Francisco to Minneapolis, you'll notice significant differences in your daily commute. San Francisco's average commute time is longer, about 34 minutes, partly due to its higher traffic congestion. The city, however, has excellent public transit options with services like SFMTA, making it entirely possible to live without owning a car. In contrast, Minneapolis offers a more relaxed pace with shorter commute times and less congestion. While its public transit system is reliable, with services including the Metro Transit, the need for a car is more prevalent compared to San Francisco. This fundamental shift in traffic dynamics and transit availability could significantly affect your daily life and planning.

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