Moving from San Francisco to Seattle?

5 Best Movers and Your Ultimate Moving Guide

Want help with the heavy lifting?

San Francisco to Seattle Movers

Moving from the Golden City to the Emerald City is an adventure that marks a significant life change, blending excitement with the anticipation of new beginnings. You're about to leave behind San Francisco's iconic fog and tech hubs for Seattle's lush landscapes and the coffee culture that fuels its innovative spirit. In this long journey of swapping the Bay for the Puget Sound, the importance of entrusting your belongings to reliable and trusted professional movers cannot be overstated. At Great Guys Moving, we understand the nuances of such a move, ensuring your transition is smooth and stress-free.

California iconArrow iconWashington icon
U-turn icon

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

5 Best San Francisco to Seattle 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 9/5/2024)

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 9/6/2024)

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
People Movers Logo
Exceptional

based on 3,624+ data points

Bothell, WA
Local moving, Long-distance moving, Cross-country moving See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/5/2024)

USDOT: 2895681 Verify

About People Movers

People Movers is a fully licensed moving company in Bothell, WA. It has relocated hundreds of happy customers in Greater Seattle since it op...Read More >>

top 10 tacoma 2024 people movers image
top 10 ranked movers in olympia 2023 people movers image
top 10 ranked movers in bellevue 2022 people movers image
#5
All Service Moving Logo
Superb

based on 5,172+ data points

Seattle, WA
Residential Moving, Commercial Moving, Long Distance Moving See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 11/14/2023)

USDOT: 2083124 Verify

About All Service Moving

All Service Moving is a full-service moving company that performs a wide array of relocation services in Seattle, WA, and surrounding areas....Read More >>

top 10 lacey 2024 all service moving image
top 10 ranked movers in seattle 2023 all service moving image
top 3 ranked movers in seattle 2022 all service moving image

Relocating from San Francisco to Seattle Neighborhood Guide

Relocating can be an overwhelming process, especially when moving to a city you're unfamiliar with. To ease the transition, we've created a comparison of local neighborhoods between San Francisco, CA & Seattle, WA . This guide will help you find a neighborhood in Seattle that mirrors the vibe and lifestyle of your favorite San Francisco area, making you feel right at home from day one.

San FranciscoSeattle
The MissionCapitol Hill

Vibrant nightlife, diverse food scene

Nob HillQueen Anne

Historic homes, scenic views

SoMaSouth Lake Union

Tech hub, modern living

Haight-AshburyFremont

Bohemian vibe, unique shops

MarinaBallard

Waterfront locale, lively atmosphere

Pacific HeightsMadison Park

Upscale, serene setting

North BeachPike Place Market

Historic area, cultural hub

CastroCapitol Hill

LGBTQ+ friendly, vibrant community

RichmondGreen Lake

Family-friendly, outdoor activities

SunsetWest Seattle

Peaceful, beach access

Exploring the neighborhoods of Capitol Hill and Fremont in Seattle, you'll discover a wealth of dining, shopping, and entertainment options reminiscent of The Mission and Haight-Ashbury in San Francisco. Capitol Hill, known for its electric nightlife and LGBTQ+ friendly atmosphere, is home to a variety of restaurants and cafes, including the historic Café Presse. Similarly, Fremont, with its bohemian vibe, offers unique shopping experiences and annual events like the Fremont Solstice Parade. Meanwhile, for those who appreciate waterfront views and a lively atmosphere, Ballard mirrors San Francisco's Marina District—complete with trendy eateries such as Ray's Boathouse, overlooking the scenic Puget Sound. These Seattle neighborhoods not only provide environments similar to your San Francisco favorites but also introduce the unique charm and culture that Seattle has to offer.

Things To Do background image

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 San Francisco to Seattle

Moving from San Francisco, CA to Seattle, WA offers a unique opportunity to re-evaluate what you want out of city life. This honest comparison is designed to present a balanced view of the relocation, highlighting both appealing and less desirable aspects. By understanding these differences, you can make a well-informed decision about your move.

CONs
PROs
San Francisco, CA iconSan Francisco, CA
  • High living costs
  • Dense traffic
  • Foggy weather
Seattle, WA iconSeattle, WA
  • More affordable
  • Less congestion
  • More greenery
Seattle, WA iconSeattle, WA
  • Rainy days
  • Less sunshine
  • Smaller tech scene
San Francisco, CA iconSan Francisco, CA
  • Vibrant tech scene
  • Iconic landmarks
  • Cultural diversity

While you may miss the bustling, vibrant tech scene and iconic landmarks like the Golden Gate Bridge, moving to Seattle offers its unique charms. Seattle is known for its lush greenery, exemplified by the breathtaking views at Discovery Park. If you're a foodie, the transition can be sweetened by exploring renowned restaurants such as The Pink Door in Pike Place Market, famous for its Italian-American cuisine with a waterfront view. Although you might need to adjust to Seattle's infamous rainy days, the city's coffee culture, with flagship stores like Starbucks Reserve Roastery, ensures you'll have the perfect refuge. Remember, every city has its tradeoffs, but Seattle's unique blend of nature, cuisine, and a slightly slower pace of life offers a refreshing change from San Francisco's intensity.

Food Scene Guide When Moving from San Francisco to Seattle

Food plays a pivotal role in understanding the local culture and lifestyle of a place. By conducting a comparison of the local cuisine between San Francisco & Seattle , we aim to provide you with a deeper insight into what your culinary life would look like should you decide to move. This comparison will help you navigate the vibrant food scenes in both cities.

San FranciscoSeattle

Most iconic local food item

Sourdough BreadSalmon

Most popular meat dish

CioppinoTeryiaki

Most popular street food item

Mission BurritoHot Dog

Most popular vegan food

Avocado ToastPho

Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city

  • Canlis
  • Pike Place Chowder
  • Loulay Kitchen & Bar

Fitness/Health Conscientiousness

98

Abundance of Food Trucks

87

Foodie Scene

109

Vegan Friendly

98

When considering the food scenes of San Francisco and Seattle, each city brings its unique flavors and culinary experiences. In San Francisco, neighborhoods like the Mission District are famous for their Mission Burritos, a hearty and beloved street food. Tartine Bakery in the Mission is a must-visit for any food lover, offering some of the best sourdough you'll ever taste. On the other hand, Seattle's food scene thrives on its seafood, with Salmon being an iconic dish. Pike Place Market is not just a landmark but a treasure trove of fresh seafood, including the Seattle staple, Pike Place Chowder. Both cities offer diverse and rich culinary landscapes, from the health-conscious and plentiful vegan options to the vibrant food truck scenes, ensuring that your move will be a delightful journey for your taste buds.

Restaurant Guide for Moving from San Francisco to Seattle

When relocating, discovering new favorite eateries can transform a city into a home. This comparison of top restaurants from San Francisco to Seattle is designed to help you find your new go-to spots, using familiar flavors as your guide. San Francisco to Seattle restaurant comparison charts offer a taste of home with a local twist, ensuring you'll never miss out on exceptional dining experiences, no matter where you are.

Zuni CaféCanlis

Upscale dining with a similar focus on meticulous preparation and local ingredients

Tartine BakeryBakery Nouveau

Artisanal bakery offering comparable high-quality, fresh-baked bread and pastries

La TaqueriaTacos Chukis

Offers authentic flavors reminiscent of the Mission District staple

Swan Oyster DepotTaylor Shellfish Oyster Bar

Similar commitment to fresh, high-quality seafood in a casual setting

State Bird ProvisionsJuneBaby

Creative American cuisine with an innovative, ever-changing menu

Mister Jiu’sWild Ginger

Iconic for its modern take on traditional Asian dishes, facilitating a similar dining experience

Foreign CinemaThe Pink Door

Offers an eclectic mix of fine food and entertainment, akin to Foreign Cinema's unique ambiance

The Slanted DoorMonsoon Seattle

Boasting modern Vietnamese dishes with a focus on farm-to-table freshness

Tony’s Pizza NapoletanaDelancey

High quality, wood-fired pizzas with a commitment to authenticity and taste

BenuAltura

Offers a similarly exquisite fine dining experience focusing on local and seasonal ingredients

For those who cherish dining as an experience, both San Francisco and Seattle offer unique spots that are sure to delight. Zuni Café in San Francisco, renowned for its roasted chicken and warm atmosphere, finds its match in Seattle's Canlis, where the scenic views complement an exquisite menu. Bakery enthusiasts missing Tartine Bakery's sourdough will find solace in Bakery Nouveau's array of fresh, flavorful bread and pastries. And, seafood lovers accustomed to the fresh catches at Swan Oyster Depot can continue their culinary adventures at Taylor Shellfish Oyster Bar in Seattle, where the oysters are as fresh and the experience just as memorable. These matches not only highlight the caliber of dining available but also underscore the vibrant culinary scenes that make both cities a foodie’s paradise.

CTA Banner background image

Ready to start your move?

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

Real estate shapes a significant part of your moving experience, making it essential to understand how the housing landscapes of San Francisco and Seattle compare. This comparison aims to clarify the distinctions and similarities in their real estate markets, focusing on cost, architectural styles, and the essence of urban living.

When analyzing the real estate differences between San Francisco and Seattle, it's evident that cost plays a significant role in your decision-making process. San Francisco's higher median home prices and rents reflect its status as one of the most expensive cities in the U.S., driven by high demand and limited space. While both cities tout an urban lifestyle, San Francisco edges out with its unparalleled walkability, emblematic of its compact, densely populated nature. However, Seattle's emphasis on park access and green technology in its listings highlights a community focused on sustainability and access to natural beauty. This contrast in lifestyle and community values might significantly influence your choice depending on your priorities and lifestyle preferences.

Pet-friendly neighborhoods background image

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.

Weather Considerations for Moving from San Francisco to Seattle

Moving from one location to another means adapting to new climates and seasons. This comparison primarily focuses on weather differences between San Francisco and Seattle , crucial for planning your relocation. Understanding these variations helps you anticipate changes in daily life and prepare accordingly.

Summer icon
68°F / 55°F

San Francisco, CA

75°F / 55°F

Seattle, WA

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
57°F / 46°F

San Francisco, CA

47°F / 37°F

Seattle, WA

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
23.65

San Francisco, CA

37.49

Seattle, WA

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
0

San Francisco, CA

4.8

Seattle, WA

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

When moving from San Francisco to Seattle, you'll notice several major weather changes. Seattle experiences a significant reduction in sunny days annually, highlighting the city's reputation for cloudy skies. Despite having similar summer temperatures, winter in Seattle is noticeably colder and wetter, reflecting in its higher annual rainfall. Additionally, while both cities face the risk of earthquakes, Seattle's proximity to volcanoes marks a unique difference in potential natural disasters. Adapting to these weather conditions means preparing for more rain and embracing the lush, green surroundings that benefit from it.

Ready to start your move?

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

When considering a move, it's crucial to understand the financial differences between your current and future homes. This comparison provides insights into the economic landscapes of San Francisco and Seattle, focusing on aspects that directly impact your budget and lifestyle. By examining these facets, you grasp how your money and living experience will compare.

Moving from San Francisco to Seattle might be a financial relief in several ways. Despite both cities housing robust technology sectors that drive high average household incomes, you'll find a stark difference in cost of living and state income tax rates. Seattle's absence of a state income tax presents a significant saving opportunity compared to California's high tax rate. However, be mindful of Seattle's higher average sales tax and property tax rates. Both cities showcase high affluence levels but differ in their poverty and homelessness challenges, reflecting the complex socio-economic tapestries you'll navigate in each location.

Political & Religious Comparison between San Francisco, CA and Seattle, WA

Moving from San Francisco to Seattle? Get a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents in your new city. This guide offers a comparison of the politics between San Francisco & Seattle alongside insights into local religious communities. It's designed to help you understand the socio-cultural environment awaiting you.

San FranciscoSeattle

Political Make-up

Heavily DemocraticStrongly Democratic

Local Politics

Liberal, with a focus on social issuesProgressive, with emphasis on environmental and social justice

Religion

Diverse; includes Christianity, Buddhism, Judaism, and othersDiverse; significant presence of Christianity, Buddhism, and non-religious groups

Both San Francisco and Seattle share a predominantly Democratic political identity, although the nuances of local politics and issues of focus might vary. In San Francisco, politics lean more towards liberal stances with a marked emphasis on social issues. Seattle, while also progressive, places a stronger emphasis on environmental and social justice issues. Religious diversity is a hallmark of both cities, with a variety of faiths co-existing, from Christianity to Buddhism. This diversity fosters a rich, inclusive culture that you'll soon be a part of. Understanding these similarities and differences can smooth your transition and help you engage with your new community more deeply.

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

Moving from San Francisco, CA to Seattle, WA, it's vital to compare the traffic and transportation options between San Francisco & Seattle to better understand what your daily commute and traffic might be like.

San FranciscoSeattle
3428

Avg Commute Time (in minutes)

87

Traffic Congestion (out of 10)

98

Availability of Public Transit (out of 10)

YesYes, but it's more challenging

Can you get by without a car?

San Francisco and Seattle both offer robust public transit options, but the efficiency and necessity vary between the two. In San Francisco, the BART and Muni networks make it quite feasible to navigate the city without a car. Coupled with its higher traffic congestion, living car-free is often a more attractive option. Seattle, while still providing a solid public transportation system through Metro and Sound Transit, tends to be a bit more car-dependent, especially when venturing outside the urban core. Nonetheless, both cities encourage biking and have growing networks of bike lanes. The key difference lies in the average commute times and slightly less congestion in Seattle, potentially making commutes faster on average than in San Francisco.

CTA Banner background image
Connect with one of our Certified Moving Partners.
Best San Francisco to Seattle Movers Featured Image
Popular moving routes background image

Popular San Francisco, CA to Washington Moving Routes