Best Raleigh to San Francisco Movers and Practical Moving Guide

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Raleigh to San Francisco Movers

Moving from the City of Oaks to the Golden City is certainly an exhilarating life-changing journey. Leaving behind Raleigh's lush greenery and down-to-earth vibe for San Francisco's iconic hills and dynamic cultural tapestry can feel like stepping into a whole new world. Understanding the magnitude of this coast-to-coast move, it's crucial for you to partner with trusted and reliable professional movers, which is why we've used our unbiased ranking algorithm to identify the best movers for you.

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Best Raleigh to San Francisco Moving Companies

Company NameRating QuestionBBB RatingLicenseContact
OCD Moving Services LLC9.66A+Authorized For HHGContact
Raleigh Moving Company9.43NRActiveContact
Kora Moving9.39A+Authorized For HHGContact
Athens Moving Experts9.34A+Authorized For HHGContact
Capital Moving & Storage9.27NRAuthorized For HHGContact
Phone (800) 787-5428
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from San Francisco to Raleigh guide.

5 Best Raleigh to San Francisco Moving Companies

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

OCD Moving Services LLC Logo
Exceptional9.66/10
based on 3,273+ data points

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 >>

Services

  • Local Moving
  • Long Distance Moving
  • Commercial Moving

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 10/17/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2597230 / 911812

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans6
Registered Drivers6
Total Annual Miles Moved153,000 (2022)
View Full Review
1
Raleigh Moving Company Logo
Exceptional9.43/10
based on 954+ data points

About Raleigh Moving Company

Raleigh Moving Company is a locally owned and operated moving company offering residential and commercial services for local and long-distan...Read More >>

Services

  • Free estimates
  • Full Value Protection (FVP)
  • Fully licensed and insured

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 9/14/2021)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3344628 / -

Active

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans1
Registered Drivers2
Total Annual Miles Moved-
View Full Review
2
Kora Moving Logo
Exceptional9.39/10
based on 1,517+ data points

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 >>

Services

  • Local moves
  • Long distance moves
  • Packing and unpacking

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 10/18/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3139436 / 1425667

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans1
Registered Drivers1
Total Annual Miles Moved100,000 (2021)
View Full Review
3
Athens Moving Experts Logo
Exceptional
claimed company icon
9.34/10
based on 4,516+ data points

About Athens Moving Experts

Since 2015, Athens Moving Experts has helped Raleigh, Chapel Hill, Holly Springs, and communities across North Carolina with their residenti...Read More >>

Services

  • Local Moving Services
  • Long Distance Moving Services
  • Commercial Moving Services

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 10/17/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3205320 / 204920

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans5
Registered Drivers5
Total Annual Miles Moved25,000 (2021)
View Full Review
4
Capital Moving & Storage Logo
Exceptional9.27/10
based on 1,596+ data points

About Capital Moving & Storage

Capital Moving & Storage, a family-owned company based in Raleigh, NC, has been providing high-quality moving services for over 20 years...Read More >>

Services

  • Residential & Commercial Moving
  • Local & Long Distance Moving
  • Packing

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 10/18/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3623752 / 1238777

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans3
Registered Drivers4
Total Annual Miles Moved108,816 (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.

Raleigh vs. San Francisco Neighborhood Comparison

To help you transition smoothly from Raleigh, NC, to San Francisco, CA, this guide will compare local neighborhoods between Raleigh, NC & San Francisco, CA. By identifying the Raleigh neighborhood you love most, we can find its San Francisco counterpart. This comparison aims to make the unknown familiar, allowing for an exciting yet seamless move.

RaleighSan FranciscoHow They're Similar
Downtown RaleighSoMaVibrant arts scene and nightlife
Five PointsNoe ValleyFamily-friendly with a cozy vibe
North HillsMarina DistrictUpscale shopping and dining
Boylan HeightsMission DistrictHistoric with a rich culture
OakwoodPacific HeightsPicturesque streets and classic homes
Cameron VillageHaight-AshburyUnique shops and bohemian vibe
Hayes BartonPresidio HeightsAffluent with grand homes
Brier CreekSunset DistrictSuburban feel within the city
MordecaiNorth BeachVibrant, with a strong sense of community
Glenwood SouthThe CastroLively LGBTQ+ scene and nightlife

Exploring these neighborhoods in detail, imagine walking through the Marina District, reminiscent of Raleigh's North Hills with its trendy boutiques like Madewell and upscale dining spots akin to Angus Barn. If your heart belongs to the historic charm and tree-lined streets of Boylan Heights, the Mission District's colorful murals and cultural richness, including landmarks like Mission Dolores Park, will captivate you. On weekends, you might find yourself exploring Haight-Ashbury, with its eclectic hustle similar to Cameron Village, browsing through unique finds at Amoeba Music or enjoying a coffee at Blue Bottle, immersing yourself in a blend of urban culture and community warmth that both cities cherish deeply.

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Pros and Cons of Moving from Raleigh to San Francisco

Moving from one city to another can be a mix of excitement and apprehension. This comparison aims to highlight the transition from Raleigh, NC to San Francisco, CA, providing a balanced view of the benefits and drawbacks. By examining both sides, you can gain a clearer perspective on what awaits you in this major life change.

CONs
PROs
Raleigh, NC iconRaleigh, NC
  • Lower job opportunities
  • Mild winters
  • Affordable living costs
  • Less traffic
  • Smaller tech scene
San Francisco, CA iconSan Francisco, CA
  • Robust job market
  • Milder climate overall
  • Diverse culture
  • Comprehensive public transport
  • Booming tech industry
San Francisco, CA iconSan Francisco, CA
  • Higher cost of living
  • Expensive housing market
  • Smaller living spaces
  • Less personal space
  • Faster pace of life
Raleigh, NC iconRaleigh, NC
  • Family-friendly neighborhoods
  • Lower housing costs
  • Spacious living areas
  • More green space
  • Slower pace of life

Both Raleigh and San Francisco offer unique advantages. For instance, Raleigh's Pullen Park and the North Carolina Museum of History provide excellent family-friendly destinations with ample space for leisure and learning. In contrast, San Francisco's vibrant cultural tapestry is showcased in neighborhoods like Chinatown and Fisherman's Wharf, offering a blend of historical sights, diverse cuisines, and bustling markets. While Raleigh boasts a more relaxed lifestyle with spacious suburbs like Cary and Apex, San Francisco thrives with its dynamic, innovation-driven economy centered around areas like Silicon Valley. Thus, the move from Raleigh to San Francisco promises a transition from a quieter, spacious environment to a bustling urban life rich with opportunities and cultural diversity.

Raleigh vs. San Francisco Food Guide

Understanding the essence of a locality can greatly be achieved through its cuisine. Food not only nourishes but also tells the story of a place's culture and the people. This comparison of the local cuisine between Raleigh & San Francisco aims to offer insights into what culinary experiences await you as you transition from one vibrant city to the other.

RaleighSan Francisco
Most iconic local food itemNorth Carolina BBQSourdough Bread
Most popular meat dishPulled PorkCioppino
Most popular street food itemHot DogsMission Burrito
Most popular vegan foodBBQ JackfruitAvocado Toast
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
  • Poole's Diner
  • Brewery Bhavana
  • The Angus Barn
  • Tartine Bakery
  • Saison
  • Zuni Café
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
Abundance of Food Trucks🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
Foodie Scene🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

In Raleigh, you'll find a strong sense of Southern hospitality infused in its dishes, particularly noted in its famed North Carolina BBQ, a highlight at Poole's Diner. On the other hand, San Francisco offers a rich tapestry of multicultural influencesshown through its iconic sourdough bread and the beloved Mission Burrito, readily available in the vibrant neighborhood of Mission District. San Francisco also boasts a robust vegan scene, with establishments like Tartine Bakery offering delightful plant-based options that cater to a health-conscious demographic. Both cities offer unique culinary experiences that mirror their cultural diversity and evolving gastronomic landscapes.

Raleigh vs. San Francisco Restaurant Comparison

Food plays a pivotal role in turning a new city into home. This restaurant comparison will help bridge the move from Raleigh to San Francisco, guiding you to your next favorite dining spots based on your current preferences.

RaleighSan FranciscoWhat You'll Love
Brewery BhavanaState Bird ProvisionsCreative dishes in a unique dim sum style dining experience.
GarlandThe Slanted DoorModern Vietnamese cuisine with a farm-fresh take similar to Garland's innovative approach.
Pool's DinerMo's GrillClassic diner feels with a focus on hearty, comforting meals.
Bida MandaHawker FareVibrant Lao and Isaan Thai food, reminiscent of Bida Manda's Laotian offerings.
Death & TaxesNopaLocally sourced ingredients with a focus on wood-fired dishes, offering a similar ambiance and quality.
SittiTawlaMediterranean dishes that bring forward the authenticity and comfort of home-cooked meals like Sitti.
Ashley Christensen RestaurantsDominique Crenn RestaurantsBoth groups of restaurants offer high-end dining experiences led by visionary female chefs.
Morgan Street Food HallFerry Building MarketplaceA hub for local artisan food vendors, both offer a diverse array of gourmet options.
Beasley's Chicken + HoneyBrenda's French Soul FoodSouthern comfort food with a twist, similarly honoring classic dishes with innovation.
Crawford and SonRich TableA focus on seasonal American cuisine, each with a cozy, neighborhood feel.

Discover the essence of Raleigh's culinary scene reimagined in San Francisco's diverse food landscape. For example, Brewery Bhavana's unique blend of brewery, dim sum restaurant, bookshop, and flower shop finds a counterpart in State Bird Provisions, with its innovative American cuisine served dim sum-style. This unique dining style promotes a shared dining experience, sparking conversations and connections. Likewise, the farm-to-table approach of Death & Taxes is mirrored by Nopa, where the emphasis on locally sourced ingredients and wood-fired cooking techniques highlights the parallels between the food philosophies of these two restaurants. Such comparisons not only ease the transition to a new city but also enrich your understanding and appreciation of local dining cultures.

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Raleigh vs. San Francisco Real Estate & Living Facts

When planning a move, examining the real estate landscape is crucial for setting expectations and making informed decisions. This comparison aims to highlight the differences in housing costs, styles, and lifestyle between Raleigh, NC, and San Francisco, CA, covering key factors such as affordability, walkability, and the urban lifestyle each city offers.

ComparisonRaleighSan Francisco
Typical Architecture StyleColonial, CraftsmanVictorian, Modern
Walkability 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listingSpacious yards, Quiet neighborhoodsCity views, Proximity to tech hubs

Moving from Raleigh to San Francisco represents a significant shift not only in lifestyle but also in housing expectations. In Raleigh, you might enjoy a more suburban atmosphere, quieter neighborhoods, and more space for less money. San Francisco, by contrast, offers an unparalleled urban experience with its iconic Victorian houses and modern buildings, excellent walkability, and proximity to major tech hubs. However, this comes at a steep price, with median home prices and rent far surpassing those in Raleigh. This stark contrast underscores the importance of thoroughly understanding and preparing for the real estate market differences before making the move.

Raleigh vs. San Francisco Weather Considerations

Relocating involves many changes and adapting to a new climate is one of them. Understanding how the weather in Raleigh compares to San Francisco is crucial in preparing for your move. Both cities offer unique weather patterns that could impact daily life, activities, and even your wardrobe choice.

Summer icon
89/68

Raleigh, NC

70/56

San Francisco, CA

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
52/32

Raleigh, NC

57/46

San Francisco, CA

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
43

Raleigh, NC

23

San Francisco, CA

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
5

Raleigh, NC

0

San Francisco, CA

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

ComparisonRaleighSan Francisco
Air QualityGood to ModerateGood to Moderate
Natural DisastersHurricanes, TornadoesEarthquakes, Wildfires
Days of Sunshine per Year☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. UV Index🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Avg. Annual Humidity💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦

Moving from Raleigh to San Francisco will introduce you to a more temperate climate. While Raleigh experiences humid summers and cold winters, San Francisco’s climate is moderated by the Pacific Ocean, resulting in mild temperatures year-round. However, the fog in San Francisco can significantly lower temperatures, especially during summer. The lower annual rainfall and lack of snow in San Francisco compared to Raleigh means you might need fewer rain boots and no snow shovel. Additionally, while both cities have good air quality overall, San Francisco’s unique geography and Raleigh's susceptibility to seasonal allergies due to pollen and mold could affect individuals differently based on sensitivity.

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

When planning a move from one city to another, it’s crucial to understand how your financial situation might change. This comparison aims to highlight the differences in money and finance-related aspects between Raleigh, NC, and San Francisco, CA , ensuring you’re well-prepared for the transition.

ComparisonRaleighSan Francisco
Avg. Household Income$74,612$121,826
Cost of Living Index98.2164
State Income Tax5.2513.3
Avg. Property Tax0.860.79
Avg. Sales Tax7.258.5
Top 3 IndustriesTechnology, Education, HealthcareTechnology, Finance, Tourism
AffluenceReasonably affluentHighly affluent
PovertyModerateLow to moderate
HomelessnessNoticeableSignificantly high

Despite Raleigh's growing tech scene and decent average household income, it's clear the cost of living in San Francisco is considerably higher, which might be challenging to adjust to. The disparity extends beyond just income and living expenses, as reflected in the marked difference in the cost of living index. The richer industry diversity in San Francisco offers lucrative opportunities but comes with the state's highest income tax rate and a lifestyle that demands a higher income to maintain. Observing the detailed differences in affordability and tax obligations can help you better prepare for the financial shift accompanying your move.

Raleigh vs. San Francisco Political & Religious Comparison

When moving from Raleigh, NC, to San Francisco, CA, understanding the community you'll be joining is crucial. This brief overview provides a comparison of the politics and religious beliefs between Raleigh & San Francisco , giving you insight into the typical makeup of the population in these cities.

RaleighSan Francisco
Political Make-upLeans DemocraticStrongly Democratic
Local PoliticsMix of conservative and liberal policiesLiberal policies predominate
ReligionDiverse with a significant Christian populationDiverse with lower levels of religious affiliation

In Raleigh, you'll find a balanced political environment that leans Democratic but includes a mix of conservative and liberal views. This reflects in local policies that sometimes take a moderate stance. Religion plays a significant role in the community, with a vibrant Christian presence among other beliefs. In contrast, San Francisco stands out for its strong Democratic lean and liberal policies, shaping much of the city's ethos. The city exhibits a high level of diversity in religious beliefs but is known for its lower levels of religious affiliation overall, making it a place of broad spiritual perspectives.

Raleigh vs. San Francisco Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

This comparison is designed to help you better understand what the daily commute and traffic is like between Raleigh & San Francisco. Whether you're driving to work, using public transportation, or considering how viable it is to live without a car in both cities, this guide aims to provide insight into your new potential commute.

ComparisonRaleighSan Francisco
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)2534
Traffic Congestion 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦
Availability of Public Transit 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇
Can you get by without car?ChallengingEasier

Moving from Raleigh to San Francisco means transitioning from a city where driving is often necessary to one where you might not need a car at all. In Raleigh, the average commute time is shorter, and traffic congestion is significantly less. However, public transportation options are limited, making car ownership more of a necessity. On the other hand, San Francisco offers extensive public transit options, making it easier to navigate the city without a car despite the higher traffic congestion. Understanding these differences can help you better prepare for daily life in your new city.

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