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Kansas City to Oakland Moving Guide Unlike Any You've Ever Read

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Moving from Kansas City, MO to Oakland, CA is not just a change of address; it's embarking on an adventure filled with new possibilities. You're trading in the heartland's jazz and barbecue for the vibrant diversity and innovative spirit of the Bay Area. Recognizing the distance and complexity of such a journey, it's crucial to entrust your move to reliable movers who understand the nuances of cross-country relocations. We, at Great Guys Moving, use an unbiased algorithm to ensure you're matched with the best professional movers, making your transition as smooth and stress-free as possible.

5 Best Movers for Moving from Kansas City to Oakland

#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 5/23/2024)

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 >>

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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 5/24/2024)

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 >>

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top 10 ranked movers in san bruno 2023 kora moving image
#3
God's Movers, LLC Logo
Exceptional

based on 503+ data points

Kansas City, MO
Local moving services, Long-distance moving services, Cross-country moving services See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 5/23/2024)

USDOT: 2417601 Verify

About God's Movers, LLC

God’s Movers is a family-owned and operated moving company that has served Greater Kansas City, MO for more than 20 years. It provides compl...Read More >>

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top 10 ranked movers in kansas city 2023 gods movers llc image
top 10 ranked movers in overland park 2022 gods movers llc image
#4
Golden Rule Relocation Logo
Superb

based on 318+ data points

North Kansas City, MO
Residential Moving, Commercial Moving, Interstate Moving See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 5/23/2024)

USDOT: 3420954 Verify

About Golden Rule Relocation

Golden Rule Relocation is a premier residential and commercial moving and storage company based in Kansas City, Missouri, and serves the ent...Read More >>

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#5
Courtesy Movers LLC Logo
Superb

based on 1,051+ data points

Kansas City, MO
Cheap Moving Services, Local Moving Services, Long Distance Moving Services See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 5/24/2024)

USDOT: 3241776 Verify

About Courtesy Movers LLC

Courtesy Movers LLC is a client-oriented, Kansas City-based company that provides quality moving services at an affordable price. Its priori...Read More >>

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top 10 ranked movers in kansas city 2023 courtesy movers llc image
top 10 ranked movers in kansas city 2022 courtesy movers llc image

Relocating from Kansas City to Oakland Neighborhood Guide

Moving from one city to another can be overwhelming, especially when it comes to finding a new neighborhood that feels like home. To aid your transition from Kansas City, MO to Oakland, CA, we've compared the local neighborhoods between Kansas City, MO & Oakland, CA to help you familiarize yourself with your new surroundings.

Kansas CityOakland
BrooksideRockridge

Vibrant resident community

WestportTemescal

Rich in nightlife and food

Country Club PlazaPiedmont Avenue

Upscale shopping & dining

WaldoGlenview

Cozy neighborhood with local feel

River MarketJack London Square

Waterfront dining & shopping

The CrossroadsUptown

Arts and entertainment hub

Plaza WestportOld Oakland

Historic architecture and boutiques

Crown CenterLake Merritt

Picturesque lake and activities

Armour HillsMontclair

Wooded and residential

LongfellowDimond District

Diverse with a strong sense of community

For those drawn to the artsy and lively vibe of The Crossroads in Kansas City, you'll find a kindred spirit in Oakland's Uptown neighborhood. Uptown is the city's beating heart of culture, hosting numerous galleries like the Oakland Art Murmur, and venues such as the Fox Theater. Food enthusiasts who savored the variety in Westport will enjoy Temescal's eclectic eateries, including the popular Cholita Linda. Meanwhile, those who appreciate the community cohesion and charming eateries of Brookside will feel at home in Rockridge, where you can enjoy a coffee at Cole Coffee or indulge in a book at Pegasus Books. Each Oakland neighborhood mirrors its Kansas City counterpart not just in amenities and atmosphere, but in fostering strong, vibrant communities that welcome newcomers with open arms.

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Things to Do in Oakland

  • Explore Chabot Space & Science Center
  • Stroll through Oakland Zoo
  • Enjoy Lake Merritt on paddleboat
  • Watch a game at Oakland Coliseum
  • Visit Oakland Museum of California
  • Sample at Jack London Square eateries
  • Hike in Redwood Regional Park

Ready to start your move?

Pros and Cons of Moving from Kansas City to Oakland

Moving always comes with its challenges and rewards, and relocating from Kansas City, MO to Oakland, CA is no exception. This comparison aims to provide an honest reflection of the good and bad aspects of this move, helping you make a well-informed decision on whether the vibrant vibes of Oakland will suit you better than the comfort of Kansas City.

CONs
PROs
Kansas City, MO iconKansas City, MO
  • Lower cost of living
  • Less traffic congestion
  • More affordable housing
Oakland, CA iconOakland, CA
  • More cultural diversity
  • Progressive community
  • Better public transit
  • Access to tech jobs
Oakland, CA iconOakland, CA
  • Higher living costs
  • Expensive restaurants
  • Less green space
  • Increased traffic
Kansas City, MO iconKansas City, MO
  • Friendly neighborhoods
  • Affordable dining options
  • Accessible nature
  • Low traffic density

When considering the move from Kansas City to Oakland, it's not just about exchanging BBQ for sourdough or jazz for indie music. You'll find Oakland's vibrant cultural scene enticing, with landmarks like the Fox Theater and the annual Art + Soul Oakland Festival. Meanwhile, Kansas City's abundant green spaces like Loose Park contrast with Oakland's urban landscape. However, Oakland offers gems like Lake Merritt and Redwood Regional Park for nature enthusiasts. Dining in Oakland might be pricier, but areas like Temescal are culinary hotspots offering diverse and innovative cuisine. Ultimately, your preference for community vibe, access to diverse cultures, and job opportunities in tech-centric industries could make Oakland an exciting new home.

Food Scene Guide When Moving from Kansas City to Oakland

Relocating brings a mix of excitement and challenges, especially when it comes to local foods, which are a vital part of a region's culture and lifestyle. In this guide, we will provide a comparison of the local cuisine between Kansas City & Oakland to help you understand the culinary scene in your new city.

Kansas CityOakland

Most iconic local food item

BBQ RibsSourdough Bread

Most popular meat dish

BrisketChicken and Waffles

Most popular street food item

Burnt EndsTacos

Most popular vegan food

Jackfruit BBQTempeh Reuben

Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city

  • Joe's Kansas City Bar-B-Que
  • Q39
  • Jack Stack Barbecue
  • Brown Sugar Kitchen
  • ShakeWell
  • Xolo Taqueria

Fitness/Health Conscientiousness

78

Abundance of Food Trucks

69

Foodie Scene

89

Vegan Friendly

79

In Kansas City, BBQ is more than a way to cook; it's a lifestyle with burnt ends and brisket at the heart of many gatherings. Places like Joe's Kansas City Bar-B-Que are legends, drawing people from across the country. On the flip side, Oakland offers a diverse and vibrant food scene reflecting its rich cultural tapestry. Neighborhoods like Temescal are bustling with innovative eateries like Xolo Taqueria, and the city's health-conscious attitude is visible in its high vegan-friendly rating. Whether you're looking for traditional meat dishes or plant-based options, both cities offer unique and flavorful experiences.

Restaurant Guide for Moving from Kansas City to Oakland

Finding comfort in a new city often begins with discovering local culinary gems. This comparison aims to simplify that journey, turning the potentially daunting task of finding new favorite eateries in Kansas City, MO, to Oakland, CA , into an exciting adventure. Let this guide serve as your culinary compass, leading you from well-loved spots in Kansas City to their Oakland counterparts.

Joe's Kansas City Bar-B-QueEverett & Jones Barbeque

Classic smoked meats paired with signature sauces.

The Capital GrilleWood Tavern

An upscale dining experience with a focus on quality ingredients.

Town TopicTrueBurger

Offering freshly made burgers in a casual, friendly setting.

Lidia's Kansas CityDopo

Traditional Italian dishes made with finesse, echoing the heart of Italy.

Port FondaCalavera

Rich and authentic Mexican cuisine with a modern twist.

Fox and PearlBelotti Ristorante E Bottega

Cozy Italian eatery known for handmade pasta.

GrünauerBierhaus

German eats and brews in a comfy, convivial atmosphere.

Q39Smokin' Woods BBQ

BBQ dishes with deep flavors and a variety of sides.

Garozzo's RistoranteLo Coco's

Sicilian kitchen serving hearty Italian classics and seafood.

BluestemCommis

A fine dining experience with innovative and beautifully plated dishes.

When moving from Kansas City, MO, to Oakland, CA, you'll find that the rich tapestry of culinary delights in both cities offers comforting familiarity along with exciting new flavors. Joe's Kansas City Bar-B-Que, renowned for its smoked meats and savory sauces, finds its West Coast match in Everett & Jones Barbeque, where the smokehouse tradition is alive and thriving. If your appetite leans towards Italian, the transition from Lidia's Kansas City to Oakland's Dopo will be seamless, with both establishments priding themselves on authentic, mouth-watering dishes. And should you miss the cozy, upscale dining experiences of The Capital Grille, Wood Tavern in Oakland awaits with open arms, ready to impress with its commitment to quality and a meticulously curated wine list. This move doesn't have to mean leaving your favorite flavors behind; instead, it's an opportunity to expand your culinary horizons.

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Real Estate Facts to Know Before Moving from Kansas City to Oakland

When planning a move, comparing Kansas City, MO and Oakland, CA through their real estate aspects provides valuable insights. Understanding housing costs, architecture, and lifestyle qualities can make your transition smoother.

Moving from Kansas City to Oakland introduces a dramatic shift, especially in terms of housing costs and the urban lifestyle. Oakland's higher median home prices and rent reflect its proximity to San Francisco's bustling economy and the tech industry. The noticeable difference in architecture styles— with Oakland favoring Victorian and Craftsman homes—adds a unique charm to the cityscape. Moreover, Oakland's superior walkability and bikeability scores indicate a more urban-centric living experience, emphasizing the city's focus on sustainability and accessibility public transit options. These factors combined paint a picture of Oakland as a city that, despite its higher living costs, offers an engaging urban lifestyle with eco-friendly features at the forefront of its real estate market.

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Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Oakland, CA

1. Rockridge: Known for its welcoming atmosphere, Rockridge offers numerous pet-friendly cafes and a local pet shop, ensuring your furry friends are always pampered.

2. Lake Merritt: This area surrounds a picturesque lake with a 3.4-mile walking path that's perfect for dog-walking, alongside veterinary services easily accessible for your pets' health needs.

3. Montclair Village: Nestled in the hills, Montclair Village is not only scenic but also boasts a pet-friendly environment with holistic pet care, and numerous trails for adventurous walks with your pets.

Weather Considerations for Moving from Kansas City to Oakland

When planning a move from one city to another, it's crucial to understand how the weather patterns you're accustomed to will change. This comparison highlights the weather differences between Kansas City, MO and Oakland, CA , providing a clear picture of what to expect in your new home.

Summer icon
89°F / 68°F

Kansas City, MO

75°F / 57°F

Oakland, CA

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
43°F / 24°F

Kansas City, MO

58°F / 44°F

Oakland, CA

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
42"

Kansas City, MO

23"

Oakland, CA

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
19"

Kansas City, MO

0"

Oakland, CA

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

Moving from Kansas City to Oakland, you'll enjoy milder summers and warmer winters, reflecting the Mediterranean climate of the Bay Area. This shift means you'll face less extreme seasonal temperatures, making outdoor activities more accessible year-round. The significant increase in sunny days also supports a more active outdoor lifestyle. However, be mindful of the different natural disaster risks, with Oakland being more prone to earthquakes and fires. Understanding these variances prepares you for a smoother transition to your new environment.

Ready to start your move?

Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Kansas City to Oakland

When planning a move from one city to another, grasping the financial implications is crucial. This comparison sheds light on how your expenses and economic environment will shift when moving from Kansas City, MO, to Oakland, CA. Understanding these differences is key to a successful transition.

The comparison between Kansas City and Oakland reveals significant financial and economic differences. Despite Oakland's higher average household income, the cost of living there is almost double that of Kansas City. This includes notably higher expenses related to housing and taxes, which will affect your budget. Moreover, Oakland's top industries suggest a vibrant job market, particularly in technology, which might offset the higher cost of living for some. However, the higher cost of living correlates with a higher rate of homelessness, a crucial aspect to consider when moving. This comparison aims to prepare you for the financial adjustments required for such a relocation.

Political & Religious Comparison between Kansas City, MO and Oakland, CA

When planning your move from Kansas City, MO to Oakland, CA, understanding the community you're about to join is crucial. This comparison provides a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents, offering insights into the social fabric of both cities.

Kansas CityOakland

Political Make-up

Leans DemocraticStrongly Democratic

Local Politics

Moderate with a mixProgressive

Religion

Christianity predominant, diverse religious communitiesLess religious, diverse spiritual practices

In terms of politics, while both Kansas City and Oakland lean Democratic, Oakland is known for its more progressive and activist political landscape. This reflects not only in voting patterns but also in local policies and community engagement. Local politics in Oakland are deeply influenced by social and environmental issues, making it a hub for progressive thought. On the religious front, Kansas City tends to have a more traditional Christian base, with various denominations and vibrant religious communities. In contrast, Oakland presents a more secular atmosphere with a wide array of spiritual practices beyond traditional religions. Understanding these dynamics will help you better integrate and contribute to your new community.

Traffic and Public Transit Considerations for Moving from Kansas City to Oakland

Moving from Kansas City, MO to Oakland, CA involves not just a change of scenery but a fundamental transformation in your daily commute. This comparison is here to help you better understand what the daily commute and traffic is like between these two vibrant cities.

Kansas CityOakland
2432

Avg Commute Time (in minutes)

47

Traffic Congestion (out of 10)

38

Availability of Public Transit (out of 10)

NoYes

Can you get by without a car?

When moving from Kansas City to Oakland, you'll experience a significant change in your daily commute dynamics. Kansas City tends to have lighter traffic and shorter commute times, but it scores lower on public transit availability, making it challenging to get around without a car. Oakland, on the other hand, boasts a higher public transit score, thanks to services like BART and AC Transit, making it more feasible to live car-free. However, this convenience comes with increased traffic congestion and longer commute times. Adapting to Oakland's transit-oriented lifestyle can offer new freedoms from the demands of car ownership, but it's important to factor in the additional time you may need to allocate for commuting.

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