Best San Francisco to Pittsburgh Movers and Practical Moving Guide
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Moving from the foggy hills of San Francisco to Pittsburgh's steel skyline marks not just a change in scenery but an exciting chapter in your life. Swapping the Golden Gate for the Three Rivers, you leave behind the tech hustle for a city known as the "City of Bridges," embracing new treats, communities, and a different pace of life. The success of such a significant transition is heavily dependent on trusting your move to professional and reliable movers, ensuring your journey from coast to coast is as smooth and worry-free as possible.
Best San Francisco to Pittsburgh Moving Companies
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Pittsburgh to San Francisco guide.
5 Best San Francisco to Pittsburgh Moving Companies
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
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
About Pittsburgh Moving
Located in the City of Bridges, Pittsburgh Moving is a full-service moving company dedicated to making your local and intrastate relocations...Read More >>
Services
- Local move in Pittsburgh
- Long distance moving in or out of Pittsburgh
- Residential move
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
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
About Meta Movers
Meta Movers is a licensed and insured moving company based in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, with over a decade of experience in the industry. Th...Read More >>
Services
- Full-service local Pittsburgh moves
- Long distance residential and commercial moves
- Loading or unloading your truck or pod
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.
San Francisco vs. Pittsburgh Neighborhood Comparison
Moving to a new city is always a challenge, especially when you're unsure about the neighborhoods. This guide compares the local neighborhoods between San Francisco, CA & Pittsburgh, PA to help you find a new area that feels like home. By comparing familiar neighborhoods in San Francisco with their Pittsburgh counterparts, you'll be better acquainted with your new surroundings.
| San Francisco | Pittsburgh | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Marina District | Shadyside | Vibrant nightlife, upscale dining |
| Castro | Lawrenceville | Inclusive, artsy vibe |
| Haight-Ashbury | Bloomfield | Diverse, with a bohemian flair |
| SoMa (South of Market) | Strip District | Industrial feel, tech hub |
| North Beach | Squirrel Hill | Cultural hub, great eats |
| Mission District | East Liberty | Gentrifying, rich history |
| Pacific Heights | Point Breeze | Elegant homes, quiet area |
| Nob Hill | Shadyside | Upscale, historic buildings |
| Financial District | Downtown Pittsburgh | Commercial heart, high-rise offices |
| Sunset District | Mount Lebanon | Family-friendly, suburban feel |
In comparing neighborhoods between San Francisco and Pittsburgh, you'll find several parallels that offer a familiar sense of community and lifestyle. For instance, if you enjoyed the bustling nights and upscale dining in the Marina District, Shadyside in Pittsburgh will charm you with its lively atmosphere, featuring popular dining spots like Walnut Grill. Lovers of the inclusive, artsy vibe of Castro will find Lawrenceville welcoming, with its vibrant arts scene and unique events at places like Row House Cinema. For those who appreciate the diversity and bohemian flair of Haight-Ashbury, Bloomfield offers an eclectic mix of dining and shopping, reminiscent of Haight Street but with a distinct Pittsburgh touch. This comparative insight into the neighborhoods should ease your transition and help you pick the perfect new neighborhood in Pittsburgh that feels just like home.
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from San Francisco to Pittsburgh
Making the move from San Francisco, CA to Pittsburgh, PA requires a clear understanding of the shift in lifestyle. Here, we aim to provide a balanced view by weighing the challenges against the benefits of this relocation, giving an honest reflection of what awaits. This comparison will showcase how the pros outweigh the cons and vice versa, offering a comprehensive look at your new life in Pittsburgh.
San Francisco, CA- High living costs
- Congested traffic
- Cold summers
- Less green space
Pittsburgh, PA- Lower living costs
- Less traffic
- Warmer summers
- More parks
Pittsburgh, PA- Smaller tech scene
- No ocean
- Fewer landmarks
- Different vibe
San Francisco, CA- Vibrant tech scene
- Ocean access
- Famous landmarks
- Rich culture
Choosing Pittsburgh over San Francisco brings a significantly lower cost of living, which can mean more disposable income for enjoying what the city has to offer. Pittsburgh is known for its vibrant neighborhoods like Lawrenceville, bustling with unique restaurants such as Cure and trendy spots like Roundabout Brewery. The city boasts lush green spaces like Schenley Park, offering a great escape into nature. While you might miss the tech buzz of San Francisco and its iconic Golden Gate Bridge, Pittsburgh offers its own brand of charm with historic sites like the Carnegie Museums and the vibrant cultural district. This move is about swapping ocean views for riverfronts, and high costs for a city rich in history and community.
San Francisco vs. Pittsburgh Food Guide
When relocating, diving into the local food scene is essential for getting the true flavor of your new home. In this guide, we'll embark on a comparison of the local cuisine between San Francisco & Pittsburgh to provide insights into what culinary delights await you.
| San Francisco | Pittsburgh | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Sourdough Bread | Pierogi |
| Most popular meat dish | Cioppino | Primanti Bros. Sandwich |
| Most popular street food item | Mission Burrito | Haluski |
| Most popular vegan food | Vegan Ramen | Vegan Pierogi |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
Exploring the food scene in Pittsburgh will introduce you to unique local flavors such as Pierogi, a beloved filled dumpling, and the iconic Primanti Bros. Sandwich, packed with meat, coleslaw, and fries. Pittsburgh's trendy neighborhoods, like the Strip District and Lawrenceville, offer a vibrant food scene with an array of restaurants including Primanti Bros. and Altius, where the local cuisine shines. Whether you're a meat lover or a vegan, Pittsburgh caters to all tastes, making your culinary exploration an adventure in every bite.
San Francisco vs. Pittsburgh Restaurant Comparison
Choosing a new place to call home involves discovering spots that warm the heart and comfort the soul. For food enthusiasts moving from San Francisco to Pittsburgh, this San Francisco to Pittsburgh restaurant comparison is crafted to help you find your new culinary haven, easing the transition and making Pittsburgh feel like home. Here's to exploring flavors new and old, and finding your next favorite eatery.
| San Francisco | Pittsburgh | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Gary Danko | Altius | Upscale dining with comparable attention to detail and ingredient quality |
| Tartine Bakery | Five Points Artisan Bakeshop | Renowned for their freshly baked bread and pastries |
| Swan Oyster Depot | Roland's Seafood Grill | Known for its fresh seafood and lively atmosphere |
| Mission Chinese Food | Chengdu Gourmet | Authentic Sichuan cuisine that rivals the bold flavors of Mission Chinese |
| Zuni Café | The Café at the Frick | Offers an elegant dining experience with a seasonal menu |
| La Taqueria | Las Palmas | Authentic Mexican eats with a street-side taco stand vibe |
| The Slanted Door | Two Sisters | Vietnamese cuisine with a modern twist and an emphasis on freshness |
| Benu | Poulet Bleu | Although French, offers a comparable upscale and refined dining experience |
| Golden Gate Bakery | Oakmont Bakery | Famous for its wide assortment of baked goods and sweet treats |
| Nopa | Legume | A focus on organic and sustainable ingredients in a bustling, warm environment |
The vibrancy and diversity of San Francisco's dining scene can indeed find echoes in Pittsburgh, promising an exciting gastronomic adventure. For instance, the experience at Altius in Pittsburgh mirrors the elevated dining offered by Gary Danko, emphasizing a passionate dedication to fine ingredients and inventive cuisine. Meanwhile, the authentic Sichuan flavors that define Chengdu Gourmet stand as a testament to the fiery, complex dishes that have made Mission Chinese Food a San Francisco favorite. And for those who miss the European flair of The Slanted Door, Two Sisters offers Vietnamese cuisine with an inventive twist, cultivating a similarly modern and inviting dining experience. These parallel culinary worlds promise to ease the homesickness of any San Franciscan transplant, making Pittsburgh not just a place to live, but a place to thrive and dine well.
Ready to start your move?
San Francisco vs. Pittsburgh Real Estate & Living Facts
Real estate is a pivotal factor when relocating. Understanding how San Francisco and Pittsburgh compare in housing can significantly impact your decision-making process. This comparison will delve into cost, architecture, walkability, and more, offering a comprehensive view.
| Comparison | San Francisco | Pittsburgh |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Victorian and Modern | Colonial Revival and Craftsman |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | View, Luxury, Eco-friendly | Space, Vintage, Affordable |
Comparing San Francisco and Pittsburgh reveals stark differences in housing, reflecting the unique characteristics and cost of living in each city. San Francisco's high median home price and rent are indicative of its vibrant urban lifestyle and desirability. The city is known for its Victorian and modern architecture, offering stunning views and eco-friendly features. Meanwhile, Pittsburgh offers a more affordable option, with colonial revival and craftsman homes being common, and listings often highlight the spacious and vintage aspects. Though slightly less walkable and bikeable, Pittsburgh offers a high quality of urban life at a more accessible price point, making it an attractive option for those seeking a balance between modern amenities and affordability.
Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Pittsburgh, PA
1. Lawrenceville: This neighborhood boasts a vibrant community with easy access to dog parks and pet-friendly restaurants like The Vandal, making it perfect for you and your furry friend.
2. Shadyside: Known for its walkable streets and a welcoming atmosphere for pets, Shadyside offers numerous pet stores such as Petagogy and outdoor areas, ideal for keeping your pet healthy and happy.
3. Squirrel Hill: With its close proximity to Frick Park, Squirrel Hill provides endless trails and green spaces for you and your pet to explore, alongside pet-friendly cafes and community activities.
San Francisco vs. Pittsburgh Weather Considerations
When planning a move from one city to another, comprehending how the weather differs between San Francisco and Pittsburgh is crucial. This comparison will help you understand what to expect and adjust accordingly, ensuring a smooth transition to your new home.
San Francisco, CA
Pittsburgh, PA
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
San Francisco, CA
Pittsburgh, PA
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
San Francisco, CA
Pittsburgh, PA
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
San Francisco, CA
Pittsburgh, PA
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | San Francisco | Pittsburgh |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Good | Moderate |
| Natural Disasters | Earthquakes | Snowstorms |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
Moving from the mild, Mediterranean climate of San Francisco to Pittsburgh's distinct four seasons can be a considerable adjustment. You'll exchange gentle summers for hotter, more humid ones, and the mild winters for colder, snowy periods. San Francisco's famous fog and Pittsburgh's significantly higher number of snowy days are key distinctions in daily weather experiences. Understanding Pittsburgh's broader range of temperatures and preparedness for snow can help ease the transition, allowing for a more comfortable adaptation to your new environment.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from San Francisco to Pittsburgh
When planning a move, it's vital to grasp how finances will shift. This comparison delves into the financial landscape—highlighting cost of living, taxation, and economic opportunity—from San Francisco to Pittsburgh, offering a clearer understanding of what to expect.
| Comparison | San Francisco | Pittsburgh |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $121,826 | $57,821 |
| Cost of Living Index | 164 | 91.5 |
| State Income Tax | 13.3 | 3.07 |
| Avg. Property Tax | 0.6 | 2.4 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 8.5 | 7 |
| Top 3 Industries | Technology, finance, tourism | Healthcare, education, technology |
| Affluence | High | Moderate |
| Poverty | Moderate | Low |
| Homelessness | High | Low |
While San Francisco boasts a significantly higher average household income, this advantage is tempered by its exceedingly high cost of living and top tier state income tax. In contrast, Pittsburgh offers a more modest financial landscape, with a dramatically lower cost of living and gentler taxation. The economic opportunities in Pittsburgh also show diversity, with strong sectors in healthcare and education, contrasting the technology and finance hubs of San Francisco. This financial variance highlights the importance of considering your industry and lifestyle preferences when making a move.
San Francisco vs. Pittsburgh Political & Religious Comparison
Moving across the country entails more than just a change of scenery; it's a plunge into a new cultural and socio-political environment. Understanding the comparison of the politics between San Francisco & Pittsburgh and the religious makeup of these cities can offer a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of what to expect from your new neighbors.
| San Francisco | Pittsburgh | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Liberal/Democratic | Liberal/Democratic |
| Local Politics | Progressive Policies | Moderately Progressive |
| Religion | Mixed, with a significant portion identifying as non-religious | More diverse, with Christianity being predominant |
Both San Francisco and Pittsburgh share a liberal/democratic political leaning, but the intensity and focus of local politics may differ. San Francisco is known for its very progressive policies, often leading the way in environmental regulation, LGBTQ+ rights, and housing reforms. Comparatively, Pittsburgh is moderately progressive, with a significant focus on revitalizing its economy and infrastructure while still valuing social progressiveness. Religion presents a contrasting picture; San Francisco's population is highly diverse in terms of religious beliefs, with a substantial number identifying as non-religious. In contrast, Pittsburgh has a more significant Christian population, reflecting the varied religious makeup of its communities. Understanding these nuances will help you engage more meaningfully with your new surroundings.
San Francisco vs. Pittsburgh Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Moving from one city to another can be daunting, especially when considering your daily commute and traffic experience. To better understand what the daily commute and traffic is like between San Francisco & Pittsburgh, this comparison aims to provide you with insights on driving and transiting in both cities.
| Comparison | San Francisco | Pittsburgh |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 34 | 26 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | Yes | Yes, but more challenging |
The average commute time in San Francisco is notably longer than in Pittsburgh, a reflection of both city size and traffic congestion. San Francisco, with its higher traffic congestion score, can still offer a smoother daily commute thanks to its excellent public transit system, rated among the best in the U.S. While you can get by without a car in both cities, it's considerably more feasible in San Francisco, supported by extensive public transit options like BART and Muni. Meanwhile, Pittsburgh's reliance on its bus system, although efficient, makes car ownership more of a necessity for convenience and access to broader areas.
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