Best Oakland to Seattle Movers and Practical Moving Guide
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Embarking on a move from Oakland's sunny streets to Seattle's lush landscapes represents an adventure brimming with new opportunities and life changes. Leaving behind the vibrant energy of "The Town" for the coffee-scented air and tech-driven heartbeat of "The Emerald City" can feel like stepping into a new chapter of your story. Understanding the importance of a seamless transition, we emphasize the necessity of entrusting your journey to the hands of trusted, reliable professional movers, ensuring your move is as smooth and stress-free as the Pacific breeze.
Best Oakland to Seattle Moving Companies
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Seattle to Oakland guide.
5 Best Oakland to Seattle 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 Seattle Moves & More
Based in Seattle, Seattle Moves & More is a licensed, insured, and premier moving company in Seattle, WA, known for its exceptional services...Read More >>
Services
- Residential & Commercial Moving
- Long-Distance Relocation
- Furniture Packing and Unpacking
About John Volken Academy Movers
John Volken Academy Movers is a not-for-profit moving company that helps people move across Western and Eastern Washington. This local busin...Read More >>
Services
- Local Moving
- Commercial Moving
- Residential Moving
About Fairprice Movers
Established in 2012, Fairprice Movers is a moving company headquartered in San Jose, California. The company offers a highly personalized mo...Read More >>
Services
- Local Moving
- Long Distance Moving
- Commercial and Office Moving
About Upline Moving
For smooth local, statewide, and nationwide residential relocations, Upline Moving is your trusted partner. Based in Hayward, it serves the ...Read More >>
Services
- Residential movers
- Long distance movers
- Local movers
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.
Oakland vs. Seattle Neighborhood Comparison
Moving can be an overwhelming experience, especially to a city you're not familiar with. To ease this transition, we've created a guide that compares popular neighborhoods in Oakland, CA with Seattle, WA , aiming to find you a new neighborhood that feels like home. By understanding the similarities in local vibes, amenities, and community life, you can make an informed decision that suits your lifestyle.
| Oakland | Seattle | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Rockridge | Ballard | Vibrant, community-centric with great dining options |
| Piedmont Avenue | Queen Anne | Historic homes, diverse shopping, and dining |
| Montclair | Madrona | Laid-back, family-friendly with scenic views |
| Temescal | Fremont | Artsy, eclectic with a tight-knit community feel |
| Grand Lake | Green Lake | Recreational activities, community gatherings |
| Jack London Square | Pioneer Square | Rich history, bustling nightlife and dining |
| West Oakland | SoDo | Industrial chic, upcoming neighborhood with a creative edge |
| Laurel District | Beacon Hill | Diverse, family-oriented with great local spots |
| Uptown | Capitol Hill | Nightlife, arts, and an inclusive community |
| Glenview | Wallingford | Cozy, with a mix of old and new and great eateries |
For those who love the blend of community and cuisine that Rockridge offers in Oakland, the creative atmosphere and bustling streets of Ballard in Seattle will feel like a second home with popular spots like Maritime Pacific Brewing Company. Piedmont Avenue's charm is mirrored by Queen Anne's graceful historic homes and rich cultural events, such as those held at the Seattle Center. Montclair's serene, family-friendly vibe is akin to Madrona's quaint streets and parks, perfect for afternoon strolls to local cafes like Madrona Coffee Company. And if you're drawn to the artsy, eclectic nature of Temescal, you'll feel right at home in Fremont, where art and community intertwine at places like the famous Fremont Troll. Each of these Seattle neighborhoods offers a distinct charm that echoes the diversity and spirit of Oakland's communities, ensuring you'll find a new place to call home without losing what you loved about your old one.
Things to Do in Seattle
Visit the Space Needle for iconic city views.- Explore Pike Place Market's unique shops.
- Relax at Green Lake Park.
- Discover art at Seattle Art Museum.
- Enjoy a ferry ride to Bainbridge Island.
- Watch a Mariners baseball game at T-Mobile Park.
- Hike in Mount Rainier National Park.
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Oakland to Seattle
Moving can be a significant life change, involving a detailed evaluation of the pros and cons. This comparison aims to provide an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of relocating from Oakland, CA to Seattle, WA . Understanding these aspects will help you make a well-informed decision.
Oakland, CA- Higher crime rate
- Costly housing
- Less rain
- Limited public parks
Seattle, WA- Lower crime rate
- More affordable options
- Lush, green environment
- Abundant green spaces
Seattle, WA- Less diversity in arts
- More rainy days
- Fewer cuisine options
- Lower cultural diversity
Oakland, CA- Vibrant arts scene
- Warmer climate
- Diverse restaurants
- Rich cultural diversity
Moving from Oakland to Seattle brings significant changes, particularly to your living environment. The lush greenery and abundant parks in Seattle, such as the expansive Discovery Park, provide residents with escape into nature, a notable contrast to Oakland's more urban landscape. Although housing in Seattle might offer more affordable living situations, it's crucial to weigh this against the increase in rainy days, which could affect your overall mood and outdoor activities. Moreover, Seattle's vibrant tech scene offers ample employment opportunities, especially for those in tech and innovative industries. While you might have to say goodbye to the warmer climate and diverse dining options Oakland offers, including favorites like ShakeWell, Seattle's coffee culture and burgeoning culinary scene, featuring spots like Canlis, promise new tastes and experiences. In summary, each city offers distinct advantages depending on lifestyle preferences and priorities.
Oakland vs. Seattle Food Guide
This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Oakland & Seattle to help you understand the food scene in each location. Food plays a pivotal role in the cultural lifestyle and moving experience, and our guide aims to keep you well-informed.
| Oakland | Seattle | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Sourdough Bread | Seafood, particularly Salmon |
| Most popular meat dish | BBQ Ribs | Teriyaki |
| Most popular street food item | Tacos | Hot Dogs, especially Seattle Dog |
| Most popular vegan food | Jackfruit Tacos | Vegan Pho |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
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| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
In Oakland, the vibrant street food culture, embodied by the popular tacos found throughout the city, reflects its multicultural heritage. Neighborhoods like Temescal are bustling with food trucks and pop-up markets that showcase a diverse range of cuisines, including the highly coveted jackfruit tacos for the vegan palate. Seattle, on the other hand, takes pride in its seafood, especially salmon, which can be enjoyed in various forms across the city, from upscale dining at Canlis to casual bites at Pike Place Market. The Seattle Dog, a unique take on the hot dog topped with cream cheese and sautéed onions, symbolizes the city's inventive approach to street food. Both cities boast a dynamic food scene that caters to health-conscious individuals and foodies alike, making them exciting culinary destinations for newcomers.
Oakland vs. Seattle Restaurant Comparison
When relocating, discovering a new dining scene can turn a new city into a home. This restaurant comparison from Oakland, CA to Seattle, WA will help you find new favorite spots that reflect the flavors and experiences you cherished back home. Let this guide ease your transition by connecting you with comparable dining experiences in your new city.
| Oakland | Seattle | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Commis | Canlis | High-end dining with a focus on local, seasonal ingredients |
| Burma Superstar | Little Uncle | Authentic Southeast Asian flavors with a local twist |
| Pizzaiolo | Delancey | Neapolitan-inspired, wood-fired pizzas with a Northwest spin |
| Brown Sugar Kitchen | JuneBaby | Southern cuisine with an emphasis on heirloom recipes and ingredients |
| Shakewell | Tarsan i Jane | Innovative Spanish-inspired small plates with a unique Seattle vibe |
| Homeroom | Beecher's Handmade Cheese | Comfort food haven featuring local cheeses |
| Mua | Walrus and the Carpenter | Lively spot for small plates and local seafood |
| Señor Sisig | Marination Ma Kai | Filipino-Hawaiian fusion with a side of Seattle’s skyline |
| Boot and Shoe Service | Bar Cotto | Artisanal pizzas and Italian small plates in a cozy atmosphere |
| Cholita Linda | Neon Taco | Fresh, vibrant Mexican fare with a creative twist |
Moving from Oakland to Seattle offers an exciting opportunity to explore a new world of culinary delights. For instance, Seattle's Canlis provides an exceptional fine dining experience reminiscent of Oakland's Commis, offering meticulously prepared dishes with a strong emphasis on local and seasonal ingredients. On the more casual side, lovers of Burma Superstar's unique flavors will find comfort in Little Uncle, where the focus on authentic Southeast Asian cuisine is paired with local ingredients to create unforgettable meals. Furthermore, for enthusiasts of artisanal pizzas, Bar Cotto in Seattle mirrors the quality and ambiance of Boot and Shoe Service in Oakland, allowing for the continuation of your pizza traditions in a new city.
Ready to start your move?
Oakland vs. Seattle Real Estate & Living Facts
Real estate is a crucial consideration when planning a move. Understanding how housing aspects such as costs, architecture, and lifestyle opportunities compare between Oakland, CA and Seattle, WA can help you make an informed decision. Below you'll find charts that detail these comparisons, highlighting the contrasts and similarities that define each city's unique character and livability.
| Comparison | Oakland | Seattle |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Victorian, Craftsman | Contemporary, Craftsman |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Close to public transit, Views of the Bay | Waterfront properties, Tech-friendly homes |
When comparing Oakland and Seattle, there are several key differences and similarities to note. Oakland's real estate market is characterized by its historic Victorian and Craftsman homes, whereas Seattle tends to lean more towards contemporary and Craftsman styles. This difference in architecture can reflect the cities' unique cultures and histories. Additionally, Seattle scores slightly higher in terms of walkability and bikeability, which could be appealing if you enjoy an active urban lifestyle. Seattle's emphasis on waterfront properties and tech-friendly homes in real estate listings highlights the city's scenic beauty and tech-centric economy, offering a slightly different appeal compared to Oakland's vibrant, community-oriented offerings and stunning bay views.
Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Seattle, WA
1. Ballard: With its numerous off-leash dog parks, Ballard is ideal for your furry friends to run free and socialize.
2. Green Lake: Known for the pet-friendly Green Lake Park, you and your pet will enjoy the scenic 2.8-mile trail and ample green space for play.
3. Queen Anne: This neighborhood is packed with pet-friendly cafes and shops, plus it offers easy access to Kinnear Park's off-leash area, making it a perfect spot for pet owners.
Oakland vs. Seattle Weather Considerations
When planning a move from Oakland, CA to Seattle, WA, understanding how the weather compares between your current and future home is crucial. This guide provides insight into the climate differences you'll experience, preparing you for the transition. Let's explore how Oakland's sunny and mild climate contrasts with Seattle's cooler and wetter conditions.
Oakland, CA
Seattle, WA
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Oakland, CA
Seattle, WA
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Oakland, CA
Seattle, WA
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Oakland, CA
Seattle, WA
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Oakland | Seattle |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Good | Moderate |
| Natural Disasters | Earthquakes, Wildfires | Earthquakes, Volcanoes |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
Moving from Oakland to Seattle, you'll notice a significant decrease in sunny days and an increase in rainfall. While both cities experience mild summers, Seattle's winters are cooler and wetter, with an average annual snowfall, something Oakland rarely sees. Humidity levels are fairly comparable, although Seattle has a higher average annual humidity. One adjustment may be the increased need for a more comprehensive wardrobe to accommodate Seattle's cooler, more variable weather. The dramatic change in the number of sunny days could also have an impact on your daily life and activities, making outdoor planning more dependent on the forecast.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Oakland to Seattle
When considering a move from one location to another, understanding the financial implications is crucial. Oakland, CA to Seattle, WA: Compare Finance and Economy helps you grasp how the cost of living, taxes, and job prospects might change. This comparison empowers you to make an informed decision about your relocation.
| Comparison | Oakland | Seattle |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $82,236 | $110,781 |
| Cost of Living Index | 139.1 | 121.4 |
| State Income Tax | 0-13.3% | 0% |
| Avg. Property Tax | 0.78% | 0.99% |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 9.25% | 10.1% |
| Top 3 Industries | Healthcare, Business Services, Manufacturing | Technology, Healthcare, Retail |
| Affluence | High | Very High |
| Poverty | Substantial | Moderate |
| Homelessness | Significant | Significant |
While both Oakland and Seattle boast high average household incomes, Seattle leads with a notably higher figure. However, despite Seattle's lack of state income tax providing an attractive proposition for many, higher average property and sales taxes might balance this advantage out. Both cities feature significant levels of homelessness, highlighting ongoing social challenges. Cost of living indices are closely matched, reflecting the high demand and affluence in both cities. The dominant industries in Seattle center around technology and healthcare, offering abundant opportunities in these sectors compared to Oakland's diversified economy. Understanding these nuances helps you better prepare for the financial realities of relocating.
Oakland vs. Seattle Political & Religious Comparison
When planning your move from Oakland to Seattle, it's helpful to understand the environment you're heading into. This quick comparison will give you an insight into the political and religious makeup of the residents between Oakland & Seattle . Discover how the political leanings, local politics, and religious communities might differ in your new home.
| Oakland | Seattle | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Strongly Democratic | Strongly Democratic |
| Local Politics | City of Oakland Government | City of Seattle Government |
| Religion | Diverse, includes Christianity, Islam, Buddhism, Hinduism | Diverse, with a higher percentage of non-religious individuals |
In both Oakland and Seattle, you'll find a strong Democratic political inclination, reflecting the liberal ethos of the west coast. However, the local political scene in each city has its own unique flavor. Oakland offers a diverse religious landscape, from Christianity to Islam and Eastern religions, mirrored in community events and centers. Seattle, while also celebrating diversity, tends to have a larger portion of its population identifying as non-religious, which influences its social policies and community programs. Moving to Seattle, you might notice subtle differences in how local politics and personal beliefs shape the city's culture and daily life.
Oakland vs. Seattle Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Moving from Oakland, CA to Seattle, WA means adapting to new daily commutes and understanding the traffic and transportation options in both cities. This comparison will help you grasp what to expect on the roads and with public transit as you make your transition.
| Comparison | Oakland | Seattle |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 29.3 | 27.8 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | Yes, but challenging | Yes, easier than Oakland |
While both cities offer robust public transit options, Seattle slightly edges out Oakland in terms of transit availability and ease of living without a car. Seattle's public transit, including buses, light rail, and ferries, covers a broader area, making it more accessible for daily commutes without relying on a car. On the other hand, despite Oakland's good public transit score, relying solely on it might be more challenging due to the city's layout and the need for connections to reach certain areas. Traffic congestion is a commonality; however, Oakland faces a slightly higher degree of it compared to Seattle, which could affect your daily commute times.
Popular Oakland, CA to Washington Moving Routes
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