Moving from Boston to Irvine?

5 Best Movers and Your Ultimate Moving Guide

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Boston to Irvine Movers

Moving from the historic charm of Boston, MA to the sunny skies of Irvine, CA is an adventure brimming with new beginnings and opportunities. You're leaving behind the "City of Champions" for the "City of Innovation," trading snowy winters for year-round warmth. Given the long journey ahead, it's crucial to rely on trusted and reliable professional movers to ensure your transition is as smooth and stress-free as possible, and that's where we step in to connect you with the best options.

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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Irvine to Boston guide.

5 Best Boston to Irvine Movers

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

#1
Stairhopper Movers Logo
Exceptional

based on 9,261+ data points

Boston, MA
Local moves, Long distance moves, Commercial moves See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/10/2024)

USDOT: 1696867 Verify

About Stairhopper Movers

Since 2001, Stairhopper Movers has operated as a Boston-based local moving company that performs local and long-distance residential and com...Read More >>

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top ranked movers in boston 2023 stairhopper movers image
#2
Pure Moving Logo
Exceptional

based on 8,688+ data points

Santa Monica, CA
Residential moving, Commercial moving, Long-distance moving See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/11/2024)

USDOT: 3207734 Verify

About Pure Moving

Pure Moving has six locations across California, including an office in Los Angeles. This locally operated business moves over 10,000 client...Read More >>

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#3
Centaur Moving Logo
Exceptional
claimed company icon

based on 1,675+ data points

Cambridge, MA
Local Moving, Long Distance Moving, Commercial Relocations See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/11/2024)

USDOT: 3638077 Verify

About Centaur Moving

Centaur Moving, based in Cambridge, Massachusetts, is a fully licensed and insured moving company with services for local and nationwide mov...Read More >>

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#4
Intelligent labor & Moving Logo
Exceptional

based on 1,979+ data points

Arlington, MA
Local moving services, Long-distance and interstate moving services, Cheap moving rates with two or three movers See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/10/2024)

USDOT: 2065664 Verify

About Intelligent labor & Moving

Established in 2005, Intelligent Labor & Moving is a moving and storage company serving residential and corporate clients in the communi...Read More >>

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top 10 ranked movers in boston 2023 intelligent labor moving image
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#5
Terry Moving & Storage Logo
Exceptional

based on 2,308+ data points

Lake Forest, CA
Local Move, Interstate Move, Packing Services See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/11/2024)

USDOT: 649215 Verify

About Terry Moving & Storage

Terry Moving & Storage offers full-service moves locally and throughout the 11 Western States. This Lake Forest-based business has helpe...Read More >>

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Relocating from Boston to Irvine Neighborhood Guide

When planning a move from one city to another, understanding the vibe and characteristics of local neighborhoods can greatly ease the transition. To help with this, we’ve crafted a comparison of the local neighborhoods between Boston, MA & Irvine, CA . This guide equips you with a comparative understanding of neighborhoods in your current city, Boston, to those in your future city, Irvine, making the unfamiliar familiar.

BostonIrvine
Back BayWoodbridge

Water features, family-friendly

Beacon HillTurtle Rock

Historic feel, upscale homes

South EndNorthwood

Diverse, vibrant arts scene

North EndWestpark

Rich culture, culinary scene

Fenway-KenmoreUniversity Park

Youthful vibe, close to education

CharlestownQuail Hill

Scenic views, historic sites

Seaport DistrictPortola Springs

Modern, tech-forward living

Jamaica PlainWoodbury

Green spaces, community feel

DorchesterStonegate

Multicultural, family-oriented

South BostonGreat Park

Emerging, lively community

In exploring these neighborhoods, one can't help but appreciate the subtle intricacies that define each area. For instance, if you've enjoyed the historic architecture and the cobblestone charm of Beacon Hill, Turtle Rock in Irvine offers a similar upscale ambiance with beautifully preserved areas congenial for leisurely explorations. Conversely, the vibrant arts scene that South End is renowned for finds a counterpart in Northwood, where a mosaic of cultural festivities and eateries celebrate diversity. Fenway-Kenmore's youthful energy, primarily powered by its proximity to educational institutions, echoes in University Park, Irvine, fostering a similar spirited community. For those who value the green, community-oriented spaces of Jamaica Plain, Woodbury in Irvine extends an inviting atmosphere with abundant parks like Jeffrey Open Space Trail and numerous community activities, ensuring a seamless transition in lifestyle preference.

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Things to Do in Irvine

  • Hike at Irvine Regional Park
  • Explore the Orange County Great Park
  • Visit the Irvine Spectrum Center
  • Enjoy dining at Diamond Jamboree
  • Study at Irvine Public Libraries
  • Attend a concert at FivePoint Amphitheatre
  • Relax at Newport Beach

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Pros and Cons of Moving from Boston to Irvine

Moving from Boston, MA to Irvine, CA is a journey that demands weighing both sides carefully. This comparison aims to provide an honest reflection of the good and the bad, laying out the pros and cons side by side. Whether it's for lifestyle, climate, or opportunities, discover how this relocation might be the right move for you.

CONs
PROs
Boston, MA iconBoston, MA
  • Cold, snowy winters
  • Higher cost of living
  • Tight, competitive job market
  • Historic city congestion
Irvine, CA iconIrvine, CA
  • Mild, sunny climate
  • More affordable housing
  • Growing job opportunities
  • Spacious, planned community
Irvine, CA iconIrvine, CA
  • Fewer cultural landmarks
  • More suburban feel
  • Dependent on cars
  • Less seasonal variation
Boston, MA iconBoston, MA
  • Rich historical sites
  • Vibrant, diverse neighborhoods
  • Extensive public transit
  • Seasonal weather

Boston prides itself on its vibrant history and diverse neighborhoods like the North End, known for its superb Italian restaurants such as Massimino's Cucina Italiana, and the quaint, picturesque streets of Beacon Hill. On the other hand, Irvine offers a serene lifestyle with its meticulously planned neighborhoods and abundant green spaces, such as the Orange County Great Park. Though Irvine may lack the historical depth of Boston, it more than makes up for it with its modern amenities, such as top-rated restaurants in the Irvine Spectrum Center and the expansive job opportunities in tech and higher education. This move could represent a transition from a dense, historical urbanity to a more relaxed, sunny suburban life with ample opportunities to grow personally and professionally.

Food Scene Guide When Moving from Boston to Irvine

This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Boston, MA & Irvine, CA. Food not only satisfies our hunger but also represents the essence of a locality's culture and lifestyle. By comparing the culinary scenes of these two cities, you'll gain insights into what to expect on your plate after moving.

BostonIrvine

Most iconic local food item

Clam ChowderAcai Bowl

Most popular meat dish

Lobster RollKalbi (Korean BBQ Short Ribs)

Most popular street food item

CannoliTacos

Most popular vegan food

Quinoa SaladPho Chay (Vegan Pho)

Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city

  • Union Oyster House
  • Mike's Pastry
  • James Hook & Co
  • Diamond Jamboree
  • Habana
  • 85°C Bakery Cafe

Fitness/Health Conscientiousness

79

Abundance of Food Trucks

68

Foodie Scene

89

Vegan Friendly

79

In Boston, the historic North End is renowned for its Italian Cannoli, with Mike's Pastry being a must-visit for anyone with a sweet tooth. For seafood lovers, the Union Oyster House, America's oldest restaurant, serves dishes that have been Boston staples for centuries. Moving to Irvine, you'll find a more diverse culinary scene influenced by its vibrant Asian and Latin American communities. The Diamond Jamboree shopping center hosts a variety of eateries offering authentic tastes from around the globe, while health-conscious individuals will appreciate the city's plentiful vegan options and emphasis on fresh, healthy foods.

Restaurant Guide for Moving from Boston to Irvine

Food is a cornerstone of feeling at home in a new city. For those moving from Boston, MA to Irvine, CA, this handy comparison of top restaurants will guide you in discovering your next dining favorites, using your beloved Boston eateries as a reference point. Compare the top restaurants in Boston to the closest comparable spots in Irvine to find your new go-to dining destinations.

OleanaCaspian Restaurant

Middle Eastern flavors with a similar emphasis on fresh ingredients and vibrant tastes

Neptune OysterBear Flag Fish Co.

Both known for their fresh seafood and casual, yet refined atmosphere

Mamma MariaIl Fornaio

Authentic Italian dining experiences capturing the essence of fine ingredients

ToroPuesto

Though Mexican, offers a similar innovative and upscale approach to traditional cuisine

Craigie On MainMarché Moderne

French bistro cuisine with a dedication to excellence in a fine dining setting

Legal Sea FoodsScott’s Restaurant & Bar

Both offer an upscale seafood dining experience with a focus on quality and freshness

Flour Bakery + Cafe85°C Bakery Cafe

Offers a diverse selection of pastries, breads, and sweets with a unique twist

MistralAnQi Gourmet Bistro

Elegant setting with a fusion cuisine that emphasizes bold flavors

GiuliaNorth Italia

Handmade pasta and pizzas that echo Giulia’s dedication to Italian traditions

Mike's PastryPandor Bakery

An array of delightful baked goods and sweets that remind one of Mike's iconic offerings

While both Boston and Irvine boast unique dining scenes, this comparison reveals how Irvine's culinary landscape offers counterparts that can satisfy cravings for Boston's diverse flavors. For instance, seafood enthusiasts will find Bear Flag Fish Co.'s commitment to freshness and quality a comforting reminder of Neptune Oyster. Similarly, the handmade Italian fare at North Italia serves as a worthy stand-in for the likes of Mamma Maria, providing a touch of Italian culinary craftsmanship amidst Irvine's multicultural dining scene. Moreover, 85°C Bakery Cafe, with its vast selection of pastries and sweets, fills the niche for those missing the comforting baked goods of Flour Bakery + Cafe. Though thousands of miles apart, these Irvine restaurants epitomize the rich flavors and dining experiences that Bostonians hold dear, making the transition to the West Coast a delicious journey.

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Real Estate Facts to Know Before Moving from Boston to Irvine

Real estate is a crucial aspect of relocating, and understanding the differences between your current and future home is essential. In this guide, we'll delve into a comparison between Boston, MA , and Irvine, CA regarding housing costs, styles, and livability. This will aid in making an informed decision during your move.

Moving from Boston to Irvine means transitioning from a city known for its rich history and dense urban fabric to one celebrated for its planned communities and ample green spaces. In Irvine, family-friendly areas and parks are often highlighted in real estate listings, reflecting its appeal to those looking for a suburban lifestyle within reach of Los Angeles. Boston, with its higher walkability score, suits those who prefer an urban lifestyle, access to public transport, and the historic charm that its Victorian and Colonial architecture brings. Despite the higher home prices in Irvine, the median monthly rent is surprisingly slightly lower than in Boston. Both cities showcase comparable bikeability scores, indicating robust cycling infrastructure.

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Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Irvine, CA

1. Woodbridge: Known for its two large artificial lakes, numerous parks, and pet-friendly walking paths, Woodbridge offers you and your furry friends ample outdoor spaces for play and relaxation.

2. Northwood: This neighborhood prides itself on spacious dog parks and trails, like the ones you'll find at Northwood Community Park, making it an ideal environment for pet owners seeking outdoor adventure with their pets.

3. Quail Hill: Quail Hill provides easy access to nature preserves and hiking trails suitable for all levels, including the Quail Hill Loop Trail, making it perfect for active pets and their owners who love to explore the outdoors together.

Weather Considerations for Moving from Boston to Irvine

When planning a move from Boston, MA to Irvine, CA, it's essential to understand how the weather conditions in your new home compare to what you're accustomed to. This guide will highlight the significant weather differences between Boston and Irvine, helping you prepare for your relocation.

Summer icon
82°F / 65°F

Boston, MA

83°F / 64°F

Irvine, CA

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
37°F / 22°F

Boston, MA

68°F / 42°F

Irvine, CA

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
43.8"

Boston, MA

13.5"

Irvine, CA

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
48"

Boston, MA

0"

Irvine, CA

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

In transitioning from Boston to Irvine, you'll find yourself exchanging the snowy winters and humid summers for a more temperate and sunny climate. Irvine boasts an impressive 280 days of sunshine annually, significantly more than Boston's, and lacks the heavy snowfalls characteristic of New England winters. The average winter temperatures in Irvine make it possible to enjoy outdoor activities year-round, a stark contrast to Boston's often freezing conditions. Moreover, while both cities have good to moderate air quality, Irvine's lower annual rainfall and absence of snowfall present a different lifestyle, possibly requiring adjustments in your everyday life and wardrobe.

Ready to start your move?

Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Boston to Irvine

Moving from one location to another can significantly impact your finances. Understanding the differences in cost of living, taxation, and employment opportunities between Boston and Irvine is crucial in preparing for a smooth transition. Let’s delve into the financial implications of this move.

When comparing Boston and Irvine in financial terms, it’s evident that while Irvine boasts a higher average household income, it also has a slightly higher cost of living index. This suggests that your purchasing power might not stretch as far as you’d hope after the move. Additionally, California’s maximum state income tax rate is significantly higher than Massachusetts', which could impact your take-home pay. However, Irvine’s lower property tax rate might balance out some of the increased costs, especially if you’re planning to purchase a home. Moreover, with both cities being powerhouses for education, health services, and in Irvine's case, technology, employment opportunities in these sectors are abundant, potentially offsetting other financial concerns.

Political & Religious Comparison between Boston, MA and Irvine, CA

In this snapshot, we provide a quick but insightful comparison to help you understand the differences between your new city and your old one. Specifically, this is a comparison of the politics between Boston & Irvine, along with a glimpse into the religious landscape of each. Whether you’re deeply invested in local politics or curious about the community's religious make-up, this guide is designed to offer a clear picture at a glance.

BostonIrvine

Political Make-up

Strongly DemocraticLeans Democratic

Local Politics

Progressive policies; active participationBusiness-friendly; diverse representation

Religion

Catholic Majority; significant Jewish, Muslim, and Buddhist communitiesDiverse; includes Christianity, Buddhism, Hinduism, Islam, and Judaism

While both cities lean Democratic, Boston's political scene is marked by a strong progressive streak and high voter engagement, reflective of its rich historical roots in American independence and reform movements. Irvine, on the other hand, while also leaning Democratic, tends to have a more balanced approach, with local politics that emphasize business development and a diverse set of voices in city governance. On the religious front, Boston hosts a predominantly Catholic population with significant representation from other faiths. Irvine presents a mosaic of religious beliefs, paralleling its rich cultural diversity. This vibrant mix shapes community events, festivals, and the social fabric of your new home.

Traffic and Public Transit Considerations for Moving from Boston to Irvine

This guide aims to help you better understand the differences in the daily commute and traffic between Boston & Irvine, so you can anticipate what your daily travels might look like after the move.

BostonIrvine
3025

Avg Commute Time (in minutes)

74

Traffic Congestion (out of 10)

85

Availability of Public Transit (out of 10)

YesNo

Can you get by without car?

The daily commute in Irvine tends to be slightly shorter than in Boston, thanks in part to lower levels of traffic congestion. Irvine's lower congestion score reflects a more manageable traffic situation compared to Boston’s busier roads. However, when it comes to public transportation, Boston outshines Irvine, offering more robust options with its extensive MBTA system, including buses, subways, commuter rails, and ferries. While you can feasibly rely on public transport and foot in Boston, Irvine's design and infrastructure make owning a car almost a necessity for getting around efficiently. This difference in public transit availability is a crucial consideration for anyone planning the move.

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