Best Boston to San Jose Movers and Practical Moving Guide

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Boston to San Jose Movers

Moving from the historic charm of Boston, MA, to the tech-driven vibrancy of San Jose, CA, signifies an exciting pivot in your life’s journey. Leaving behind the cobblestone streets and autumn hues of the City on a Hill for the Silicon Valley’s innovative heartbeat offers a blend of nostalgia and anticipation. It's crucial, therefore, to ensure this significant transition is smooth by entrusting your belongings to professional movers known for their reliability and excellence, just as we at Great Guys Moving have meticulously ranked using our unbiased algorithm to guide you to the best choice.

Massachusetts iconArrow iconCalifornia icon

Best Boston to San Jose Moving Companies

Company NameRating QuestionBBB RatingLicenseContact
Stairhopper Movers9.66A+Authorized For HHGContact
Centaur Moving9.60NRAuthorized For HHGContact
Intelligent labor & Moving9.51A+Authorized For Property, HHGContact
D&L Movers9.34A+ActiveContact
Careful Movers9.31A+Authorized For HHGContact
Phone (800) 787-5428
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from San Jose to Boston guide.

5 Best Boston to San Jose Moving Companies

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

Stairhopper Movers Logo
Exceptional9.66/10
based on 9,261+ data points

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 >>

Services

  • Local moves
  • Long distance moves
  • Commercial moves

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 12/17/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

1696867 / 623045

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans21
Registered Drivers22
Total Annual Miles Moved261,200 (2022)
View Full Review
1
Centaur Moving Logo
Exceptional
claimed company icon
9.60/10
based on 1,675+ data points

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 >>

Services

  • Local Moving
  • Long Distance Moving
  • Commercial Relocations

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 12/18/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3638077 / 1249051

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans2
Registered Drivers3
Total Annual Miles Moved20,000 (2022)
View Full Review
2
Intelligent labor & Moving Logo
Exceptional9.51/10
based on 1,979+ data points

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 >>

Services

  • Local moving services
  • Long-distance and interstate moving services
  • Cheap moving rates with two or three movers

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 12/17/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2065664 / 725481

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans8
Registered Drivers8
Total Annual Miles Moved43,583 (2023)
View Full Review
3
D&L Movers Logo
Exceptional9.34/10
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
4
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 12/17/2024)

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
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.

Boston vs. San Jose Neighborhood Comparison

Moving to a new city can be daunting, but understanding your new surroundings through the familiarity of your old neighborhood can ease the transition. This guide aims to compare popular neighborhoods in Boston, MA & San Jose, CA , highlighting similar areas in both cities to help you find your new home away from home.

BostonSan JoseHow They're Similar
Back BayRose GardenHistoric homes, lush gardens
Beacon HillWillow GlenCharming, tree-lined streets
South EndDowntown San JoseVibrant arts, dining scene
North EndLittle ItalyRich cultural heritage, cuisine
Jamaica PlainAlmaden ValleyDiverse community, outdoor spaces
Fenway-KenmoreJapantownEclectic, community-centric area
CharlestownLos GatosSmall-town feel, historical sites
Seaport DistrictSantana RowUpscale shopping, modern living
East BostonEvergreenFamily-friendly, suburban vibe
Allston/BrightonCambrian ParkYoung professional community, green spaces

For those moving from the cultured, historical streets of Beacon Hill with its iconic brick sidewalks and gas lamps, you'll find a similar charm in Willow Glen. Here, downtown streets are adorned with custom boutiques and cafés like Willow Street Wood-Fired Pizza, inviting a sense of community amongst its tree-canopied roads. Meanwhile, the Back Bay's reminiscent will find solace in Rose Garden's array of meticulously cared-for gardens and historically significant homes, recalling the architectural grace of Boston. Almaden Valley draws those from Jamaica Plain, offering vast outdoor recreational options, such as the picturesque trails at Almaden Quicksilver County Park, fostering a strong sense of community among nature lovers. These comparisons provide a roadmap to finding a neighborhood you'll love in your new city, blending familiar comforts with exciting new opportunities.

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Pros and Cons of Moving from Boston to San Jose

Moving across the country can be a daunting task, but comparing the pros and cons of transitioning from Boston, MA to San Jose, CA can help make the process clearer. This brief guide aims to provide an honest reflection of the good and bad attributes of this relocation, helping you weigh both sides. Let's delve into the characteristics that differentiate these two vibrant cities.

CONs
PROs
Boston, MA iconBoston, MA
  • Higher living costs
  • Colder winters
  • Smaller tech scene
San Jose, CA iconSan Jose, CA
  • Lower state income tax
  • Mild climate
  • Booming tech industry
San Jose, CA iconSan Jose, CA
  • Less historical sites
  • Uniform weather
  • Costlier housing
Boston, MA iconBoston, MA
  • Rich history
  • Seasonal beauty
  • Vibrant culture

Moving from the historical and vibrant city of Boston to the tech hub of San Jose represents a significant lifestyle shift. In Boston, the charm of seasons brings about picturesque snow in winter and colorful foliage in fall, which you'll miss in San Jose's consistently mild climate. However, San Jose compensates with its thriving tech scene in Silicon Valley, presenting abundant career opportunities in tech and startups. The local neighborhoods in San Jose, such as Santana Row, offer eclectic dining and shopping experiences, whereas Boston's North End and Beacon Hill are known for their historic architecture and cobblestone streets. Each city boasts its unique parks; the Boston Common and Public Garden provide urban green spaces steeped in history, while San Jose's Guadalupe River Park and Gardens offer a peaceful retreat amidst tech giants. Despite the higher housing costs in San Jose, the absence of state income tax in California and the proximity to innovations make it an attractive destination for many.

Boston vs. San Jose Food Guide

This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Boston & San Jose, highlighting the vibrant food scenes existing in each city. Understanding the culinary landscape is crucial as food significantly impacts the local culture and everyday life in a new place.

BostonSan Jose
Most iconic local food itemBoston Clam ChowderPho
Most popular meat dishLobster RollCarne Asada
Most popular street food itemCannoliTacos
Most popular vegan foodVegan ChowderVegan Burrito
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
  • Union Oyster House
  • Neptune Oyster
  • Mike's Pastry
  • La Foret
  • Original Joe's
  • Manresa
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness (out of 10)💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
Abundance of Food Trucks (out of 10)🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
Foodie Scene (out of 10)🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly (out of 10)🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

In Boston, the historic North End neighborhood is a haven for Italian cuisine lovers, housing the famous Mike's Pastry. Meanwhile, San Jose's vibrant culinary scene is best represented in districts like Santana Row and Downtown San Jose, where one can experience a high concentration of diverse and innovative food options, including the city's iconic Pho. Both cities boast a rich culinary heritage, yet they offer distinctly different tastes and experiences influenced by their cultural backgrounds and local produce. Whether it's the seafood extravagance in Boston or the fusion of flavors in San Jose, each city has unique offerings for food enthusiasts.

Boston vs. San Jose Restaurant Comparison

Finding a great place to dine out is an essential part of making a new city feel like home. With this comparison, we aim to simplify the transition by mapping Boston's top restaurants to their counterparts in San Jose . This will help you discover your next favorite eatery, using your beloved Boston spots as a reference point.

BostonSan JoseWhat You'll Love
OstraLa Foret RestaurantOffers high-end dining with a focus on seafood and a sophisticated atmosphere.
Neptune OysterSantana Row Oyster BarKnown for fresh oysters and seafood in a stylish, casual setting.
Regina PizzeriaTony DiMaggio's PizzaIconic for its traditional and beloved pizzas, creating a homely vibe.
Union Oyster HouseScott's SeafoodAn iconic spot with a long history serving exquisite seafood dishes.
ToroLa CatalanaServes authentic Spanish cuisine and tapas, reminiscent of Toro's bustling atmosphere.
Flour Bakery + CafeManresa BreadRenowned for artisanal bread, pastries, and a cozy café experience.
Mamma MariaPaesano Ristorante ItalianoOffers intimate, rustic Italian dining, echoing Mamma Maria's charm.
Mike's PastryPeters' BakeryFamous for its desserts, especially the marzipan, akin to Mike's sweet treats.
The Daily CatchAqui Cal-MexPresents fresh, Cal-Mex seafood dishes in a casual, lively environment.
CoppaVero’s Coffee BarWhile primarily a coffee shop, Vero’s offers a selection of Italian-inspired light bites and wine, similar to Coppa's cozy vibe.

Exploring the dining scenes in San Jose can be as diverse and fulfilling as those in Boston. At La Foret Restaurant, you'll encounter a dining experience that mirrors the sophistication and quality of Boston's Ostra, but with a touch of Californian flair. Similarly, fans of Boston’s historical Union Oyster House will appreciate Scott's Seafood in San Jose, where the tradition of serving high-quality seafood in an iconic setting continues. For those who cherish the cozy yet vibrant atmospheres of Boston’s Flour Bakery + Cafe or Toro, San Jose’s Manresa Bread and La Catalana offer a close match, ensuring you’ll always have a go-to spot for a comforting meal or social gathering, thus making your culinary transition as smooth as possible.

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Ready to start your move?

Boston vs. San Jose Real Estate & Living Facts

When considering a move, real estate remains a pivotal factor, demanding a comparison between Boston, MA and San Jose, CA to ensure you make an informed decision. This guide highlights key housing aspects to help discern the most suitable city for your lifestyle.

ComparisonBostonSan Jose
Typical Architecture StyleVictorian, FederalModern, Craftsman
Walkability 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing“Near public transit”, “Historic charm”“Tech-friendly”, “Sustainable living”

Beyond the numbers, the urban fabric of Boston and San Jose reflect their histories and economic drivers. Boston's historic charm and strong public transit system cater to those seeking a dense, walkable urban environment with easy access to amenities and work. In contrast, San Jose, with its modern and tech-centric approach, emphasizes sustainable living and innovation, offering a more suburban feel with pockets of urbanity. Notably, the bikeability scores hint at the evolving transportation infrastructure in these cities, proving essential for residents who prefer cycling over driving. Understanding these nuances will guide you towards a city that not only meets your housing budget but also matches your lifestyle preferences.

Pet-friendly neighborhoods background image

Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in San Jose, CA

1. Willow Glen: Known for its quaint, tree-lined streets, you'll find plenty of pet-friendly restaurants and a welcoming atmosphere at Willow Glen's downtown area, perfect for leisurely walks with your furry friends.

2. Cambrian Park: Boasting a serene suburban vibe, Cambrian Park is home to several parks, including the dog-friendly Butcher Dog Park, where your pets can play off-leash in a safe, enclosed environment.

3. Downtown San Jose: If you're looking for a more urban experience, Downtown San Jose offers many pet-friendly living spaces and amenities, alongside dog-friendly dining options like Original Joe’s, making it an ideal place for pet owners who love city living.

Boston vs. San Jose Weather Considerations

When planning a move from one city to another, it's crucial to understand how the weather in your new locale compares to what you're used to. This guide provides a comprehensive comparison of weather patterns between Boston, MA and San Jose, CA , assisting you in preparing for your relocation.

Summer icon
82°F / 65°F

Boston, MA

82°F / 59°F

San Jose, CA

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
37°F / 22°F

Boston, MA

60°F / 42°F

San Jose, CA

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
44"

Boston, MA

15"

San Jose, CA

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
48"

Boston, MA

0"

San Jose, CA

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

ComparisonBostonSan Jose
Air QualityGoodModerate
Natural DisastersSnowstorms, HurricanesEarthquakes
Days of Sunshine per Year☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. UV Index🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Avg. Annual Humidity💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦

The move from Boston to San Jose brings significant weather changes. You will experience much milder winters in San Jose, with no snowfall, and enjoy more sunny days, approximately 100 more per year than in Boston. However, the annual UV index in San Jose averages higher, so you'll need to be more vigilant about sun protection. While Boston battles snowstorms and occasional hurricanes, San Jose's major natural disaster risk comes from earthquakes. Adjusting to these differences and preparing accordingly will help ensure a smoother transition to your new home.

Ready to start your move?

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

When considering a move from one city to another, grasping the financial implications is crucial for a smooth transition. This comparison aims to illuminate the differences in money and finance between Boston, MA, and San Jose, CA, offering insight into how the cost of living, taxation, and economic environment could affect you.

ComparisonBostonSan Jose
Avg. Household Income$79,283$126,377
Cost of Living Index132.5156.1
State Income Tax5.09.3
Avg. Property Tax1.20.79
Avg. Sales Tax6.259.25
Top 3 IndustriesEducation, Healthcare, FinanceTechnology, Manufacturing, Retail
AffluenceHighVery High
PovertyModerateLow
HomelessnessSignificantConsiderable

While both Boston and San Jose offer abundant opportunities due to their high-performing economies, the stark difference in average household income highlights San Jose's position in the heart of Silicon Valley. However, this comes with a higher cost of living and state income tax rate. The tech-dominated job market in San Jose contrasts with Boston's diverse economy, which leans heavily on education, healthcare, and finance. Both cities face challenges with homelessness, but the severity and nature of these issues can vary based on the local economy and housing market dynamics.

Boston vs. San Jose Political & Religious Comparison

As you prepare to move from Boston, MA, to San Jose, CA, it's insightful to know the comparison of the politics between Boston & San Jose and religious make-up of both cities. This comparison gives you a quick glance at the potential cultural shift you might experience.

BostonSan Jose
Political Make-upStrongly DemocraticStrongly Democratic
Local PoliticsEmphasis on educational and healthcare reformsFocus on technology and housing issues
ReligionHigh Catholic presence, Boston CatholicDiverse, with significant Asian religious influences

While both cities have a strong Democratic leaning, the local political agendas reflect the unique needs and interests of their residents—education and healthcare in Boston, versus technology and housing in San Jose. Boston's significant Catholic presence, epitomized by institutions like Boston Catholic, contrasts with San Jose's religious diversity, including significant Asian religious influences. This diversity in San Jose mirrors its multicultural population and technological affluence, shaping a unique social and political climate you'll get to experience.

Boston vs. San Jose Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

In this guide, we compare the traffic and transportation options between Boston & San Jose to help you better understand what the daily commute and traffic are like in both cities. Whether you're a daily commuter or planning occasional trips across town, navigating these differences can significantly impact your daily life.

ComparisonBostonSan Jose
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)3025
Traffic Congestion 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦
Availability of Public Transit 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇
Can you get by without a car?Yes, with planningPossible, but challenging

When moving from Boston to San Jose, you'll notice some distinctions in your daily commute. Boston's public transit system, including the MBTA, scores higher in availability, making it easier to navigate the city without a car. In contrast, San Jose, while having its transit options such as the VTA, typically requires more reliance on a car due to less comprehensive public transit coverage. This might mean adjusting your expectations and possibly your living arrangement to ensure a smoother transition. Though traffic congestion is slightly less in San Jose, the need for a car could offset this benefit, making it crucial to plan accordingly.

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