Best San Jose to Seattle Movers and Practical Moving Guide

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San Jose to Seattle Movers

Moving from the tech-savvy heart of Silicon Valley in San Jose to the rain-kissed, bustling streets of Seattle marks an exhilarating shift in your life adventure. You're saying goodbye to the Capital of Silicon Valley, with its endless sunshine and innovation, to embrace the Emerald City, known for its vibrant arts scene and the iconic Space Needle. In this significant transition, it's crucial to rely on trusted and reliable professional movers to ensure a smooth journey north. Our team at Great Guys Moving works tirelessly to connect you with the best movers, using an objective ranking algorithm to guarantee you're in good hands for this long-distance move.

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Best San Jose to Seattle Moving Companies

Company NameRating QuestionBBB RatingLicenseContact
Seattle Moves & More9.55A+Authorized For HHGContact
D&L Movers9.35A+ActiveContact
John Volken Academy Movers9.34NRAuthorized For HHGContact
Careful Movers9.31A+Authorized For HHGContact
Joshua's Moving Packing & Storage LLC9.24A+ActiveContact
Phone (800) 787-5428
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Seattle to San Jose guide.

5 Best San Jose to Seattle Moving Companies

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

S
Exceptional9.55/10
based on 1,243+ data points

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

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 12/5/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2962927 / 5796

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans3
Registered Drivers2
Total Annual Miles Moved31,000 (2023)
View Full Review
1
D&L Movers Logo
Exceptional9.35/10
based on 1,789+ data points

About D&L Movers

Founded by Drew Sanchez and Leo Cervantes, D&L Movers is a local moving company that offers full-service relocations for homes and busin...Read More >>

Services

  • Cheap moving
  • Local moving
  • Long-distance moving

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 7/23/2023)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2706648 / -

Active

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans3
Registered Drivers5
Total Annual Miles Moved20,000 (2017)
View Full Review
2
John Volken Academy Movers Logo
Exceptional9.34/10
based on 1,571+ data points

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

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 12/5/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2261169 / 1666977

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans6
Registered Drivers8
Total Annual Miles Moved200 (2015)
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 12/5/2024)

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
Joshua's Moving Packing & Storage LLC Logo
Exceptional9.24/10
based on 1,842+ data points

About Joshua's Moving Packing & Storage LLC

Whether you're moving to the next street or city, Joshua's Moving, Packing & Storage offers worry-free relocation services within Califo...Read More >>

Services

  • Local moving
  • Long-distance moving
  • Cross-country moving

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 9/5/2023)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3184868 / -

Active

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans5
Registered Drivers5
Total Annual Miles Moved250,000 (2022)
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 Jose vs. Seattle Neighborhood Comparison

Moving to a new city can be disorienting, but aligning what you know with what you're about to discover makes the transition smoother. This guide highlights a comparison of local neighborhoods between San Jose, CA, and Seattle, WA, aiming to match you with a Seattle neighborhood reminiscent of your current San Jose favorite.

San JoseSeattleHow They're Similar
Willow GlenBallardVibrant community vibe
Almaden ValleyLaurelhurstAffluent with scenic views
Downtown San JoseBelltownLively urban center
Silver CreekMadison ParkExclusive and serene
Rose GardenQueen AnneHistoric with lush parks
The AlamedaGreenwoodFamily-friendly with a historic touch
EvergreenWallingfordQuiet yet accessible
Santana RowCapitol HillTrendy and walkable
Los Gatos CreekFremontArtsy with outdoor activities
JapantownInternational DistrictRich cultural experience

Translating the vibe of San Jose neighborhoods to their Seattle counterparts provides a fascinating exploration of what each city offers. If the tree-lined streets and charming boutiques of Willow Glen win your heart, Ballard's vibrant social scene and historic maritime character might just capture it in Seattle. Similarly, the upscale, serene atmosphere of Silver Creek is echoed in Madison Park, boasting exclusive waterfront properties and refined dining like Cafe Flora. For those enchanted by Santana Row's trendy boutiques and alfresco dining, Capitol Hill's bustling streets offer an eclectic mix of restaurants, bars, and unique shops, such as those found at Rainbow Natural Remedies. This cross-city neighborhood comparison aims to make your move feel like you're rediscovering home in a whole new context.

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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 Jose to Seattle

Moving from one city to another often comes with its fair share of excitement and challenges. This guide is designed to reflect honestly on the pros and cons of relocating from San Jose, CA to Seattle, WA, helping you weigh the benefits against the drawbacks. By comparing both cities, you shall better understand what awaits in your new home.

CONs
PROs
San Jose, CA iconSan Jose, CA
  • High living costs
  • Dense traffic
  • Less rainfall
  • Strong tech scene
Seattle, WA iconSeattle, WA
  • More affordable housing
  • Efficient public transportation
  • Greener landscapes
  • Vibrant arts culture
Seattle, WA iconSeattle, WA
  • More rainy days
  • Fewer tech giants
  • Less diversity
  • Smaller food scene
San Jose, CA iconSan Jose, CA
  • Sunny weather
  • Renowned tech hub
  • Vibrant cultural diversity
  • World-class dining

Relocating from San Jose to Seattle means leaving behind the comfort of sunny California skies for the lush, green landscapes that define the Emerald City. While you might miss the renowned tech community of Silicon Valley, you'll find a vibrant arts culture waiting in neighborhoods such as Capitol Hill and Ballard. Seattle's Pike Place Market offers a cornucopia of fresh, local produce and artisanal goods that rival San Jose's San Pedro Square Market. Despite the shift from California's warmth to Seattle's rainy days, the change brings with it the joy of experiencing the city's abundant parks, like Green Lake and the iconic Gas Works Park, not to mention the world-reputed Seattle coffee scene, with gems like Starbucks Reserve Roastery acting as a centerpiece for coffee enthusiasts. This move offers an opportunity to embrace a city known for its natural beauty, eco-conscious lifestyle, and a community that celebrates creativity and innovation.

San Jose vs. Seattle Food Guide

This is a comparison of the local cuisine between San Jose & Seattle, which is crucial to understanding the culinary landscape of each city. Food plays a significant role in the local culture and what living in an area is like. We're here to provide insights to help you better grasp the food scene of your new home.

San JoseSeattle
Most iconic local food itemPhoSalmon
Most popular meat dishCarne AsadaTeriyaki
Most popular street food itemTacosHot Dogs
Most popular vegan foodVegetable PhoTempeh Reuben
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
  • Original Joe's
  • Falafel's Drive-In
  • Straits
  • Canlis
  • Theo Chocolate Factory & Cafe
  • Serious Pie
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
Abundance of Food Trucks🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
Foodie Scene🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

In San Jose, the rich diversity is mirrored in its food scene, with Vietnamese Pho and Mexican tacos highlighting the cultural mosaic. You'll find vibrant street food scenes sprawled across markets and corners, such as at San Pedro Square Market. Moving to Seattle, the culinary landscape shifts towards seafood dominance, with salmon at the forefront. Neighborhoods like Pike Place Market serve as epicenters for food enthusiasts, offering a plethora of fresh, local seafood. Both cities boast a strong food truck presence, yet Seattle's slightly higher rating reflects its extensive variety of mobile eateries that cater to every palate, including a diverse vegan and health-conscious community.

San Jose vs. Seattle Restaurant Comparison

When relocating from San Jose, CA to Seattle, WA, finding new favorite spots to dine can truly make your new city feel like home. This comparison chart is essential for anyone looking to replicate their culinary experiences. Restaurant comparison between San Jose and Seattle is vital, helping you discover places where you can enjoy similar vibes and cuisine in your new hometown.

San JoseSeattleWhat You'll Love
Le PapillonCanlisUpscale dining and exquisite service, mirroring the elegant French cuisine of Le Papillon.
Original Joe's San JoseThe Pink DoorOffers Italian-American classics in a lively atmosphere reminiscent of Original Joe's.
Falafel Drive-InMamnoonFast-casual Middle Eastern fare with a similar cult following for their falafel.
La Foret RestaurantThe Corson BuildingBoth provide a rustic, enchanted dining experience with a focus on local ingredients.
San Pedro Square MarketPike Place MarketBustling marketplaces offering a variety of food vendors and lively atmospheres.
AdegaTarsan i JaneBoth specialize in high-end, chef-driven tasting menus that highlight seasonal ingredients.
Dia de PescaThe Walrus and the CarpenterA focus on seafood with a casual, yet refined approach to dishes.
Back A YardIsland SoulCaribbean cuisine with a soulful twist, echoing the hearty and flavorful meals of Back A Yard.
ManresaWillows Inn on Lummi IslandBoth are destinations for food enthusiasts seeking an exceptional farm-to-table dining experience.
Ludwig's German TableAltstadtAuthentic German fare and beer selection, providing a similar European tavern vibe.

While exploring dining options, Canlis in Seattle stands out for those who have cherished their evenings at Le Papillon in San Jose, offering a similarly refined dining experience with breathtaking views. If you're missing the vibrant, Italian-American atmosphere of Original Joe's San Jose, The Pink Door in Seattle will welcome you with open arms and an equally engaging setting. For the lovers of casual, yet unforgettable seafood, making a visit to The Walrus and the Carpenter will echo your fond memories of gatherings at Dia de Pesca. These establishments not only reflect the quality of their San Jose counterparts but also promise to become the backdrop to your new set of memorable meals in Seattle.

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Ready to start your move?

San Jose vs. Seattle Real Estate & Living Facts

When considering a relocation, understanding the real estate landscape is crucial. This comparison aims to shed light on how San Jose and Seattle contrast in housing characteristics, providing a clear picture for future residents.

ComparisonSan JoseSeattle
Typical Architecture StyleModern and SpanishCraftsman and Contemporary
Walkability 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listingSpacious gardens, smart homesWater views, eco-friendly designs

In a more detailed exploration, Seattle emerges as a more walkable and bike-friendly city compared to San Jose, which can significantly influence your daily lifestyle by making commutes and leisure activities more accessible and enjoyable. Furthermore, Seattle's emphasis on eco-friendly designs and water views in real estate listings highlights the city's strong connection to its natural surroundings and commitment to sustainability. In contrast, San Jose's real estate market values spacious gardens and smart home technology, reflecting a blend of comfort and modernity in residential living spaces.

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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.

San Jose vs. Seattle Weather Considerations

When planning a move from one city to another, understanding the weather differences is crucial for a smooth transition. In comparing San Jose to Seattle , this guide will help you see how weather variations can impact your daily life and how you prepare for each season.

Summer icon
82°F / 58°F

San Jose, CA

75°F / 55°F

Seattle, WA

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
58°F / 42°F

San Jose, CA

47°F / 37°F

Seattle, WA

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
15.82

San Jose, CA

37.49

Seattle, WA

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
0

San Jose, CA

4.8

Seattle, WA

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

ComparisonSan JoseSeattle
Air QualityGoodModerate
Natural DisastersEarthquakesEarthquakes, Volcanoes
Days of Sunshine per Year☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. UV Index🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Avg. Annual Humidity💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦

While both San Jose and Seattle offer unique weather conditions, it's the difference in sunshine, rainfall, and temperature that most significantly affects daily life when moving from one city to the other. San Jose boasts a generous 257 days of sunshine, offering more opportunities for outdoor activities year-round as compared to Seattle's 152 days. Additionally, Seattle experiences more than double the annual rainfall of San Jose, significantly affecting the type of outdoor activities you may enjoy. However, Seattle offers a more temperate climate during the summer, potentially making it more comfortable for those sensitive to heat. Considering these factors can help you better prepare for your move, such as investing in rain gear for Seattle's wetter climate or planning for more indoor activities.

Ready to start your move?

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

Understanding how your finances will be affected is crucial when moving. This comparison aims to illuminate the financial landscape for those considering relocating from San Jose to Seattle . Discover how elements such as income, taxes, and the cost of living might change with your move.

ComparisonSan JoseSeattle
Avg. Household Income$126,377$110,781
Cost of Living Index156.1121.4
State Income Tax13.3 max0
Avg. Property Tax0.780.93
Avg. Sales Tax9.2510.1
Top 3 IndustriesTechnology, Manufacturing, Health CareTechnology, Aerospace, Health Care
AffluenceVery HighHigh
PovertyLowModerate
HomelessnessNoticeableSignificant

Although the average household income in San Jose is notably higher compared to Seattle, the difference in state income tax policies can be a significant financial relief when moving to Seattle, which levies no state income tax. The cost of living in San Jose is also substantially higher. This aspect, combined with Seattle's 0% state income tax, may provide you with more disposable income. However, it's important to note that Seattle has a higher average sales and property tax rate, potentially offsetting some of the financial benefits. Additionally, both cities are prominent tech hubs, promising abundant career opportunities in technology among other sectors.

San Jose vs. Seattle Political & Religious Comparison

This quick guide provides a snapshot to help you understand the comparison of the politics between San Jose & Seattle and their societal composition. It’s a quick, at-a-glance look at the political and religious makeup of where you’re moving from and to, allowing for an easier transition.

San JoseSeattle
Political Make-upLiberal/DemocraticLiberal/Democratic
Local PoliticsDiverse representation, with a focus on technology and innovation industry influencesProgressive with a strong emphasis on environmental policies and social justice
ReligionMulticultural religious landscape, including Christianity, Buddhism, Hinduism, Islam, and moreDiverse, with a significant none (non-religious) population alongside Christianity, Buddhism, and others

When moving from San Jose to Seattle, you’ll find both cities share liberal political leanings, but the local issues and priorities differ. San Jose, being at the heart of Silicon Valley, has politics heavily influenced by the tech sector, driving a unique blend of innovation and economic policies. On the other hand, Seattle's progressive identity is deeply intertwined with environmental activism and a strong sense of social justice, reflecting in its local governance. The religious makeup in both cities is quite diverse, allowing for a broad spectrum of cultural exchanges and communities. However, Seattle is notable for its larger percentage of residents identifying as non-religious, reflecting the city's secular leanings.

San Jose vs. Seattle Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

Moving from San Jose, CA to Seattle, WA? Understanding the differences in traffic and transportation options between these cities will help you better prepare for your daily commute and navigate the local streets with ease.

ComparisonSan JoseSeattle
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)3028
Traffic Congestion 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦
Availability of Public Transit 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇
Can you get by without car?Possible, but challengingYes, with careful planning

San Jose and Seattle both offer unique commuting experiences. In San Jose, the average commute time is slightly longer, and while public transit exists, it's often found lacking for those used to more extensive systems. However, it's in Seattle where you'll find a more accessible city without the need for a car, thanks to its higher public transit score. Seattle's integrated public transportation system, including buses, light rail, and ferries, covers a broader range of the city and its suburbs, making it more convenient for daily commutes. This difference can significantly affect your daily life, from planning your day to choosing where to live.

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