Best Buffalo to San Francisco Movers and Practical Moving Guide

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Buffalo to San Francisco Movers

Moving from the snowy embrace of Buffalo, NY, to the iconic Golden Gate bridge of San Francisco, CA, marks an exciting chapter in your life, brimming with new adventures and opportunities. You're trading the robust spirit and wings of "The City of Good Neighbors" for the innovative heart and steep streets of "The Golden City". Given the long distance, ensuring your belongings make the journey safely is crucial, which is why choosing trusted and reliable professional movers is paramount to us. Let our unbiased ranking algorithm at Great Guys Moving guide you to the best movers available, simplifying this significant life transition.

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Best Buffalo to San Francisco Moving Companies

Company NameRating QuestionBBB RatingLicenseContact
OCD Moving Services LLC9.66A+Authorized For HHGContact
Bay - L.A. Express Moving9.32DAuthorized For HHGContact
Wayfinder Moving Services 9.03AAuthorized For HHGContact
Joey Z's Moving8.90NRActiveContact
Conjerti Moving Express and Storage8.25NRAuthorized For Property, HHGContact
Phone (800) 787-5428
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from San Francisco to Buffalo guide.

5 Best Buffalo 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 12/17/2024)

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
B
Exceptional9.32/10
based on 634+ data points

About Bay - L.A. Express Moving

Bay-L.A. Express Moving is a professional moving company that serves Los Angeles, San Francisco, and the entire Bay Area. Specializing in mo...Read More >>

Services

  • Long-distance moving
  • Small relocation
  • Full packing services

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 8/10/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

1396171 / 530464

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans2
Registered Drivers3
Total Annual Miles Moved60,000 (2022)
View Full Review
2
Wayfinder Moving Services  Logo
Superb9.03/10
based on 1,214+ data points

About Wayfinder Moving Services

Established in 2018, Wayfinder Moving Services has locations in both Buffalo, NY and Jamestown. As a business that specializes in customer ...Read More >>

Services

  • Cheap moving services
  • Local moving services
  • Long-distance moving services

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3104397 / 79366

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans9
Registered Drivers9
Total Annual Miles Moved220,000 (2022)
View Full Review
3
Joey Z's Moving Logo
Superb8.90/10
based on 214+ data points

About Joey Z's Moving

Backed by over 35 years of experience, Joey Z’s Moving serves all of New York State with reliable residential and commercial moves. It is a ...Read More >>

Services

  • Home & Apartment moving
  • Senior Moves
  • Business & Office moving

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 10/9/2022)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3348965 / -

Active

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans1
Registered Drivers2
Total Annual Miles Moved-
View Full Review
4
Conjerti Moving Express and Storage Logo
Very Good8.25/10
based on 112+ data points

About Conjerti Moving Express and Storage

Conjerti Moving is a family-owned and operated business providing quality moving services to the residents of Buffalo, NY. It is highly reco...Read More >>

Services

  • Local Moving & Packing
  • Cross-country Long Distance
  • Corporate Office Moving & Employee Relocation

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 10/8/2022)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

1397261 / 574726

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans5
Registered Drivers3
Total Annual Miles Moved147,261 (2021)
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.

Buffalo vs. San Francisco Neighborhood Comparison

Moving can be quite the adventure, especially when it involves transitioning from one vibrant city to another. To help you get acquainted with your new surroundings, we've crafted a guide that compares the local neighborhoods between Buffalo, NY & San Francisco, CA . Our aim is to use your familiarity with Buffalo as a baseline to find comparable neighborhoods in San Francisco, offering a smoother transition and a sense of home in no time.

BuffaloSan FranciscoHow They're Similar
Elmwood VillageHayes ValleyTrendy, artsy vibe with local boutiques
AllentownThe MissionDiverse, vibrant nightlife and dining
North ParkRichmond DistrictResidential, diverse eateries
Willert ParkBayviewHistoric, community-focused with a creative spirit
ParksideCole ValleyPeaceful, close to parks and quaint cafes
Delaware DistrictPacific HeightsUpscale, stunning views, elegant architecture
South BuffaloOuter MissionFamily-friendly, cultural diversity
Hertel AvenueNorth BeachLively, Italian heritage, bustling cafes
West SideBernal HeightsCommunity-oriented, panoramic city views
University HeightsInner SunsetAcademic, near universities, eclectic dining

Living in Elmwood Village, you're surely accustomed to locally owned shops and a plethora of dining options. You'll find Hayes Valley's boutique scene and innovative restaurants reminiscent of home. Meanwhile, Allentown's diverse arts scene and vibrant nightlife find a parallel in The Mission, renowned for its mural-lined streets and lively food scene, including spots like La Taqueria. For those moving from the quiet, leafy streets of Parkside, Cole Valley offers a similar charm, with its close-knit community feel and proximity to green spaces like Golden Gate Park, home to the California Academy of Sciences and the de Young Museum. These comparisons not only highlight the physical similarities between neighborhoods but also underscore the continuity of cultural and social vibes, making San Francisco feel like your new home.

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Pros and Cons of Moving from Buffalo to San Francisco

Moving from one city to another is an adventure filled with contrasting experiences. This comparison aims to illuminate the Buffalo, NY to San Francisco, CA transition, providing an honest reflection of the benefits and drawbacks of this relocation. By comparing the pros and cons, we aspire to prepare you for the major changes ahead.

CONs
PROs
Buffalo, NY iconBuffalo, NY
  • Harsh winters
  • Smaller job market
  • Less cultural diversity
  • Lower costs of living
  • More compact city
San Francisco, CA iconSan Francisco, CA
  • Milder climate
  • Larger job market
  • More cultural diversity
  • Higher costs of living
  • More outdoor activities
San Francisco, CA iconSan Francisco, CA
  • Very expensive
  • High housing costs
  • Can feel overcrowded
  • Steep learning curve
  • Complicated public transit
Buffalo, NY iconBuffalo, NY
  • Cozy small-town feel
  • Affordable housing
  • Close-knit community
  • Familiar local spots
  • Easy navigation

The transition from Buffalo, NY, to San Francisco, CA, introduces you to an exciting new landscape of opportunity and challenge. San Francisco's reputation for a milder climate is well-founded, offering an escape from the harsh Buffalo winters; Golden Gate Park, a green oasis larger than New York's Central Park, is one example of the city's plentiful outdoor activities. However, the move also means adapting to a higher cost of living, with housing significantly more expensive than in Buffalo. While Buffalo boasts a cozy, small-town feel with local favorites like Anchor Bar, the birthplace of the Buffalo wing, San Francisco counters with its own iconic spots such as Ferry Building Marketplace and the bustling Fisherman’s Wharf. Embracing this transition includes navigating both the tangible changes in scenery and the intangibles—like the vibrancy of San Francisco's diverse cultural landscape.

Buffalo vs. San Francisco Food Guide

This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Buffalo & San Francisco, highlighting the importance of food in understanding local culture and adapting to a new living environment. This comparison will help you navigate the culinary landscapes of your current and future homes.

BuffaloSan Francisco
Most iconic local food itemBuffalo WingsSourdough Bread
Most popular meat dishBeef on WeckCioppino
Most popular street food itemFood Truck TacosMission Burrito
Most popular vegan foodVegan WingsAvocado Toast
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
  • Anchor Bar
  • Gabriel's Gate
  • Ted's Hot Dogs
  • Tartine Bakery
  • Swan Oyster Depot
  • Zuni Café
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
Abundance of Food Trucks🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
Foodie Scene🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

San Francisco's culinary scene is a reflection of its diverse culture and health-conscious mindset. The city's iconic sourdough bread, which can be found in historic bakeries like Tartine Bakery, stands as a symbol of San Francisco's rich food heritage. Meanwhile, the Mission District is famed for its Mission Burritos, a substantial offering that's a must-try for anyone visiting or moving to the area. For vegans and health enthusiasts, San Francisco offers a plethora of options, from trendy avocado toast to an array of plant-based restaurants, showcasing the city's high vegan-friendly score. Additionally, the abundance of food trucks and top-tier restaurants like Zuni Café and Swan Oyster Depot reflects the city's vibrant foodie scene and commitment to diverse dining experiences.

Buffalo vs. San Francisco Restaurant Comparison

Food is a crucial part of feeling at home in a new city. This handy restaurant comparison is designed to help you transition from Buffalo to San Francisco by finding your new favorite eateries guided by your Buffalo preferences . Whether you're in the mood for high-end dining, casual bites, foodie havens, or affordable classics, we've got you covered.

BuffaloSan FranciscoWhat You'll Love
Gabriel's GateWing WingsBoth known for their exceptional Buffalo wings, offering a taste of home with a variety of flavors.
Anchor BarTommy's JoyntIconic spots famous for their hearty, comfort food and unique, welcoming atmosphere.
Ristorante LombardoAcquerelloBoth are high-end dining experiences known for their exquisite Italian cuisine and wine selections.
Elmwood Taco & SubsLa TaqueriaClassic, casual eats with a focus on quality ingredients and delicious flavors in every bite.
Allen Burger VentureSuper Duper BurgersGourmet burgers made with locally sourced ingredients, reflecting a commitment to quality and community.
Lloyd Taco FactoryNopalitoCreative, high-quality Mexican fare with a focus on organic and sustainably harvested ingredients.
Ted's Hot DogsRosamunde Sausage GrillBoth offer a wide variety of delicious, grilled-to-perfection meats with an array of toppings.
Paula's DonutsDynamo Donut & CoffeeArtisanal donuts with unique flavors, showcasing a dedication to baked goods and quality coffee.
Bar Bill TavernHouse of Prime RibFamous for comfort foods executed perfectly, specializing in meat dishes with a loyal following.
Schwabl'sOld Skool CafeBoth offer a nostalgic dining experience with classic, comforting dishes in a unique atmosphere.

For those missing Gabriel's Gate's legendary wings, Wing Wings in San Francisco will curb your craving with their eclectic and savory flavors, promising a taste reminiscent of Buffalo. On the other hand, if it's the comfort and familiarity of Anchor Bar you're longing for, Tommy's Joynt stands ready to welcome you with its home-style eats and convivial vibe. And when it comes to upscale Italian dining, Acquerello in San Francisco mirrors Ristorante Lombardo's commitment to a refined culinary experience, emphasizing artisan cuisine and exceptional wine pairings. This guide aims to bridge the gap between Buffalo and San Francisco food cultures, ensuring you'll find a new favorite spot that feels like home.

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Ready to start your move?

Buffalo vs. San Francisco Real Estate & Living Facts

Real estate plays a crucial role when planning a move, as it directly influences your cost of living and lifestyle. Comparing the real estate markets of Buffalo, NY and San Francisco, CA will highlight essential differences and similarities, enabling you to make an informed decision.











































HousingBuffaloSan Francisco
Median Home Price (USD)$195,000$1,300,000
Median Monthly Rent (USD)$1,100$3,700
Typical Architecture StyleColonial, VictorianVictorian, Modern
Walkability (out of 10)69
Bikeability (out of 10)58
Urban Lifestyle (out of 10)610
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listingSpacious yards, GaragesCity views, Eco-friendly features

When you move from Buffalo to San Francisco, you're transitioning from a city where Victorian and Colonial architectural styles dominate to one where Victorian meets modern innovation. San Francisco's high walkability, bikeability, and urban lifestyle scores reflect a city designed for those who prefer to live without a car, embracing eco-friendly commuting options. In contrast, Buffalo offers more spacious living conditions with often larger yards and the inclusion of garages, catering to families or individuals valuing space and a quieter city life. The data starkly presents the significantly higher cost of living in San Francisco, particularly in housing costs, which are quintessential considerations for your move.

ComparisonBuffaloSan Francisco
Typical Architecture StyleColonial, VictorianVictorian, Modern
Walkability 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listingSpacious yards, GaragesCity views, Eco-friendly features

When you move from Buffalo to San Francisco, you're transitioning from a city where Victorian and Colonial architectural styles dominate to one where Victorian meets modern innovation. San Francisco's high walkability, bikeability, and urban lifestyle scores reflect a city designed for those who prefer to live without a car, embracing eco-friendly commuting options. In contrast, Buffalo offers more spacious living conditions with often larger yards and the inclusion of garages, catering to families or individuals valuing space and a quieter city life. The data starkly presents the significantly higher cost of living in San Francisco, particularly in housing costs, which are quintessential considerations for your move.

Buffalo vs. San Francisco Weather Considerations

Moving from one location to another requires understanding various differences, including the weather conditions you'll be adapting to. This comparison aims to highlight how the weather in Buffalo, NY , and San Francisco, CA , varies, ensuring you are well-prepared for the climate you're moving into.

Summer icon
80°F / 60°F

Buffalo, NY

70°F / 55°F

San Francisco, CA

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
31°F / 19°F

Buffalo, NY

57°F / 46°F

San Francisco, CA

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
40"

Buffalo, NY

23"

San Francisco, CA

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
95"

Buffalo, NY

0"

San Francisco, CA

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

ComparisonBuffaloSan Francisco
Air QualityModerateGood
Natural DisastersSnowstorms, BlizzardsEarthquakes
Days of Sunshine per Year☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. UV Index🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Avg. Annual Humidity💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦

The weather in Buffalo features harsh winters with significant snowfall, averaging 95 inches annually, compared to San Francisco's milder climate that sees virtually no snow. Buffalo's summers are slightly warmer but offer fewer days of sunshine compared to the cool, foggy summers of San Francisco, which enjoys 259 days of sunshine annually. San Francisco's moderate climate results in a higher average UV index, making sunscreen more essential year-round. Understanding these variations can help you prepare for the weather differences you'll experience in your new home.

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

When considering a move from Buffalo, NY to San Francisco, CA, understanding the financial implications is crucial. This comparison aims to highlight the differences in cost of living and economic conditions between Buffalo and San Francisco , offering insights into what you might expect financially in your new city.

ComparisonBuffaloSan Francisco
Avg. Household Income$40,669$121,826
Cost of Living Index95.8164
State Income Tax6.339.3
Avg. Property Tax2.530.73
Avg. Sales Tax8.758.5
Top 3 IndustriesEducation, Health Care, ManufacturingTechnology, Finance, Tourism
AffluenceModerateHigh
PovertySignificantLower
HomelessnessModerateSevere

Moving from Buffalo to San Francisco means preparing for a significantly higher cost of living, nearly triple in terms of index value. Expect your household income needs to be substantially higher to maintain a similar quality of life. While state income tax and sales tax rates are somewhat comparable, San Francisco's markedly lower property tax rate might offer some relief. However, the city's affluence is matched by high housing costs and a notable homelessness issue, reflecting broader social and economic challenges. Considering the top industries can also inform your career prospects, with San Francisco being a hub for technology and finance.

Buffalo vs. San Francisco Political & Religious Comparison

Moving from Buffalo, NY to San Francisco, CA presents a unique opportunity to experience vastly different cultural landscapes. This quick comparison aims to provide an at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents between Buffalo & San Francisco , helping you understand the local socio-cultural environment better.

BuffaloSan Francisco
Political Make-upDemocratic-leaningStrongly Democratic
Local PoliticsModerately liberalVery liberal
ReligionChristianity dominant, with Catholicism being significantDiverse; less religious overall, prominent Buddhist, and other faiths

In both Buffalo and San Francisco, the Democratic party enjoys significant support. However, San Francisco is known for its very liberal stance on most political and social issues, far surpassing Buffalo's moderately liberal perspective. This difference emphasizes San Francisco's wider acceptance of progressive policies. When it comes to religious diversity, Buffalo has a strong Christian base, with Catholicism playing a major role. In contrast, San Francisco's cultural melting pot includes a vibrant mix of religious beliefs, including a noticeable presence of Buddhism and other faiths, reflecting the city's diverse population and more secular perspective on life.

Buffalo vs. San Francisco Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

Moving from Buffalo, NY to San Francisco, CA necessitates understanding the daily commute and traffic patterns. This comparison of traffic and transportation options between Buffalo & San Francisco will help you better navigate your new city.

ComparisonBuffaloSan Francisco
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)2134
Traffic Congestion 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦
Availability of Public Transit 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇
Can you get by without car?Possibly, with planningYes, easily

In Buffalo, your daily commute might be less stressful with an average travel time of just 21 minutes and relatively low traffic congestion. The city offers moderate public transit options, though getting around without a car can require some planning. On the flip side, San Francisco presents a different scenario. With an average commute time of 34 minutes and higher traffic congestion, relying on the city's extensive public transit system becomes almost a necessity. Fortunately, San Francisco's robust public transportation infrastructure, including buses, trolleys, and the BART system, significantly eases the challenge of getting by without a car.

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