Moving from New York City to San Francisco?

5 Best Movers and Your Ultimate Moving Guide

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New York City to San Francisco Movers

Moving from the bustling streets of New York City, NY to the tech-savvy landscape of San Francisco, CA is more than a journey over miles; it's an exciting leap into a new chapter of your life. You're leaving behind the Big Apple, with its iconic skyline and endless energy, for the Golden Gate City, known for its tech giants, rolling fogs, and a more laid-back vibe. Understanding the pivotal importance of this transition, we emphasize the need for hiring trusted and reliable professional movers to ensure your possessions navigate this long distance move safely and efficiently.

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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from San Francisco to New York City guide.

5 Best New York City to San Francisco Movers

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

#1
JP Urban Moving Logo
Exceptional

based on 4,145+ data points

Brooklyn, NY
Local NYC Moving, Long Distance Moving, Office Moving, Business Moving See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/6/2024)

USDOT: 2096754 Verify

About JP Urban Moving

JP Urban Moving is a small family-owned business in Brooklyn with over 15 years of experience. Its goal is always to give you the best custo...Read More >>

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top 10 ranked movers in new york city 2023 jp urban moving image
top 10 ranked movers in new york city 2022 jp urban moving image
#2
Metropolis Moving Logo
Exceptional

based on 2,535+ data points

Brooklyn, NY
Local moving services, Long-distance moving services, Commercial moving services See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/6/2024)

USDOT: 2781573 Verify

About Metropolis Moving

Metropolis Moving is a top-rated, licensed, and insured Brooklyn mover serving the greater Tri-State area, including all of Long Island and ...Read More >>

top 3 new york city 2024 metropolis moving image
top 10 ranked movers in queens 2023 metropolis moving image
top 10 ranked movers in queens 2022 metropolis moving image
#3
F
Exceptional

based on 1,380+ data points

Brooklyn, NY
Local moves, Commercial moves, Long distance moves See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/4/2024)

USDOT: 3610638 Verify

About Flex Moving and Storage

With its domicile in Astoria, New York, Flex Moving and Storage carries a decade long European establishment. The company's range of service...Read More >>

top 3 new york city 2024 flex moving and storage image
#4
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 9/5/2024)

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 >>

top 3 san francisco 2024 ocd moving services llc image
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
#5
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 9/6/2024)

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

Relocating from New York City to San Francisco Neighborhood Guide

Moving to a new city can be daunting, especially when you're leaving behind the familiar comfort of your neighborhood. To ease this transition, we've created a guide to help you find similar neighborhoods between New York City, NY & San Francisco, CA. By comparing popular areas in both cities, we aim to give you a starting point in finding your new local hangout, coffee shop, or park.

New York CitySan Francisco
WilliamsburgMission District

Vibrant arts scene, hip eateries

Upper East SidePacific Heights

Upscale, with historic charm

Greenwich VillageHaight-Ashbury

Bohemian, rich in history

SoHoHayes Valley

Trendy shopping, chic boutiques

MidtownFinancial District

Bustling business, skyscrapers

TribecaMarina District

Upscale, waterfront views

DUMBOSouth Beach

Waterfront, modern lofts

ChelseaCastro

Diverse, rich cultural scene

HarlemFillmore District

Historic, vibrant music scene

Lower East SideNorth Beach

Eclectic, lively nightlife

If you're enchanted by the historic charm and upscale boutiques of New York City's Upper East Side, you'll likely fall in love with Pacific Heights in San Francisco. With its stunning views of the Bay, Pacific Heights offers a blend of majestic Victorian homes and modern amenities. A stroll around the neighborhood might lead you to Fillmore Street, known for its luxury shopping and dining options. Meanwhile, fans of Williamsburg's lively arts scene and trendy cafes would find a West Coast sibling in the Mission District, where murals and music venues abound alongside artisan coffee shops such as Ritual Coffee Roasters. Exploring the storied streets of Greenwich Village? Haight-Ashbury's bohemian vibe, complete with iconic record stores like Amoeba Music, offers a similar fusion of history and culture amidst its colorful Victorian houses.

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Pros and Cons of Moving from New York City to San Francisco

Moving from New York City, NY to San Francisco, CA is a significant transition that comes with its set of challenges and rewards. This comparison aims to provide an honest reflection of the good and bad attributes of relocating from New York City, NY to San Francisco, CA . By examining the pros and cons, you can make a more informed decision about this life-changing move.

CONs
PROs
New York City, NY iconNew York City, NY
  • Higher living costs
  • Crowded subways
  • Harsh winters
  • Noisy nights
  • Fast-paced lifestyle
San Francisco, CA iconSan Francisco, CA
  • More tech jobs
  • Better climate
  • Milder winters
  • Quieter neighborhoods
  • Laid-back vibe
San Francisco, CA iconSan Francisco, CA
  • High rent prices
  • Less diversity in food
  • Commuting challenges
  • Smaller historical footprint
  • Earlier closing times
New York City, NY iconNew York City, NY
  • Dynamic culture
  • World-class dining
  • Extensive public transit
  • Rich history
  • Vibrant nightlife

While New York City buzzes with an unmatched dynamic culture, highlighted by destinations such as The Metropolitan Museum of Art and a plethora of dining options ranging from the iconic Katz's Delicatessen to trendy rooftop bars in Brooklyn, the move to San Francisco ushers in a refreshing change. San Francisco, with its tech-centric job market, offers significant opportunities for those in the technology sector. The city is famous for its picturesque landscapes, including the serene Golden Gate Park, the bustling Fisherman's Wharf, and the historic sights of Alcatraz Island. Additionally, San Francisco’s more laid-back vibe and milder weather conditions provide a comfortable environment that counters the fast-paced, often harsh living conditions found in New York City. While you'll miss the vibrancy and the 24/7 pulse of NYC, San Francisco's charm lies in its ability to offer a high quality of life with its unique neighborhoods like the Mission District, famous for its murals, and the numerous tech hubs scattered across the city.

Food Scene Guide When Moving from New York City to San Francisco

Food deeply reflects the local culture and living experience of an area. Through this comparison of local cuisine between New York City & San Francisco, you'll gain insights into what culinary delights await you in your new home. This guide aims to make your transition as flavorful as possible.

New York CitySan Francisco

Most iconic local food item

BagelSourdough Bread

Most popular meat dish

Pastrami SandwichCioppino

Most popular street food item

Hot DogMission Burrito

Most popular vegan food

Avocado ToastVegan Ramen

Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city

  • Katz's Delicatessen
  • Dominique Ansel Bakery
  • Per Se

Fitness/Health Conscientiousness

79

Abundance of Food Trucks

89

Foodie Scene

1010

Vegan Friendly

910

Exploring the food landscapes of New York City and San Francisco offers a delicious peek into their cultures. New York’s famous bagels can be enjoyed in quaint cafes scattered throughout the city, particularly renowned spots like Katz's Delicatessen in the Lower East Side serve as landmarks for food enthusiasts. In San Francisco, the sourdough bread traditions deeply embedded in the city's history can be savored in bakeries like Tartine Bakery. The Mission District is a haven for those seeking the iconic Mission Burrito, a testament to the city’s rich Mexican culinary influence. Both cities boast a vibrant foodie scene, but San Francisco edges ahead with its health-conscious offerings and abundance of vegan options, reflecting the city’s overall lifestyle. Whether it’s the bustling food trucks spreading diverse flavors or exclusive dining experiences in sought-after restaurants, both cities promise a culinary adventure that’s sure to enrich your move.

Restaurant Guide for Moving from New York City to San Francisco

When relocating from New York City, NY to San Francisco, CA, finding those perfect dining spots is crucial for feeling at home. This restaurant comparison between New York City and San Francisco will serve as your guide to discovering new favorite eateries based on your current favorites. Let's dive into the culinary scene of your future home city.

Le BernardinQuince

Both offer French-inspired menus and impeccable service

Katz's DelicatessenWise Sons Jewish Delicatessen

Both are go-to spots for classic Jewish delicatessen dishes

Prince Street PizzaTony’s Pizza Napoletana

Known for their flavor-packed square slices similar to Prince Street Pizza

Di Fara PizzaGolden Boy Pizza

Both have a cult following for their unique and delicious pizza offerings

Gramercy TavernForeign Cinema

Both provide a cozy atmosphere with innovative American cuisine

Per SeGary Danko

High-end dining experiences with tasting menus that focus on seasonality and quality

Joe’s ShanghaiDumpling Time

Both restaurants are beloved for their exceptional dumplings and traditional Asian dishes

Shake ShackGott’s Roadside

Both are popular for high-quality burgers, shakes, and a casual dining experience

CarboneOriginal Joe’s

Both are known for their classic Italian-American dishes in a vintage, classic setting

Dominique Ansel BakeryTartine Bakery

Popular for innovative pastries and desserts that draw crowds daily

For those moving from the iconic streets of New York City to the vibrant bayside city of San Francisco, the transition can be sweetened by knowing where to find your future culinary haunts. Whether it's enjoying the French-inspired elegance of Quince, reminiscent of Le Bernardin, or relishing in the delectable square slices of Tony’s Pizza Napoletana similar to Prince Street Pizza, San Francisco’s dining scene will not disappoint. Not to mention, establishments like Wise Sons Jewish Delicatessen and Dumpling Time offer the comfort of home with their take on classic Jewish delicacies and exquisite dumplings, ensuring a smooth culinary transition. Each of these San Francisco restaurants encapsulate the essence of their New York counterparts while also offering a taste of the local flavor and flair, making your new city feel like home.

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Real Estate Facts to Know Before Moving from New York City to San Francisco

Knowing how real estate compares between New York City and San Francisco is crucial for any move. These two vibrant cities offer unique living experiences, essential to understand when relocating. Let's delve into their housing differences to better prepare for your transition.

When comparing the New York City and San Francisco housing markets, a few key points stand out. San Francisco's median home price is significantly higher, making it one of the most expensive places to live in the United States. However, its charm lies in its distinct Victorian and Edwardian architectural styles, often accompanied by stunning bay views in real estate listings. New York City is unparalleled in urban lifestyle and high walkability, featuring iconic Art Deco and Beaux-Arts buildings. Both cities rank highly in terms of urban lifestyle, offering vibrant social scenes and ample amenities, though San Francisco edges out with better bikeability, attributing to its more extensive network of bike paths.

Weather Considerations for Moving from New York City to San Francisco

When planning a move from New York City, NY to San Francisco, CA, it's essential to understand how the weather differences might affect you. This comparison will highlight the key climate variances to ensure you know what to expect in your new home. Let’s dive into the New York City versus San Francisco weather comparison to better prepare for your relocation.

Summer icon
85°F / 66°F

New York City, NY

70°F / 55°F

San Francisco, CA

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
39°F / 26°F

New York City, NY

57°F / 46°F

San Francisco, CA

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
50 inches

New York City, NY

23 inches

San Francisco, CA

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
25 inches

New York City, NY

0 inches

San Francisco, CA

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

Moving from New York City to San Francisco, you'll find yourself in a milder climate year-round, with cooler summers and gentler winters in San Francisco. Not only will you enjoy more sunny days, but the challenges shift from dealing with snow to managing in a city that faces unique natural disasters such as earthquakes and wildfires. Additionally, while San Francisco’s weather is generally more temperate, its higher humidity levels and frequent fog can be surprising to newcomers. Understanding these differences is crucial for a smooth transition and adapting to your new surroundings comfortably.

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Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from New York City to San Francisco

When considering a move between cities, understanding how your financial situation will adjust is paramount. This comparison focuses on the costs and economic environments of New York City and San Francisco, highlighting vital financial indicators. It's a glimpse into what you may encounter transitioning between these two bustling economic powerhouses.

Moving from New York City to San Francisco, you'll notice a substantial jump in the cost of living, especially in housing costs, as reflected in the Cost of Living Index. Despite the higher average household income in San Francisco, the city's affluence is coupled with significant homelessness challenges, a factor worth considering when moving. Tax rates slightly favor San Francisco, but the actual impact will largely depend on your income bracket and spending habits. Additionally, the tech-dominated job market in San Francisco contrasts with New York's diversified economy, potentially shaping your employment opportunities.

Political & Religious Comparison between New York City, NY and San Francisco, CA

This comparison offers a quick glimpse into the political and religious landscape of New York City & San Francisco . Understand the communities you'd be moving into, focusing on the political leanings and religious affiliations of their residents.

New York CitySan Francisco

Political Make-up

Primarily liberal/DemocraticStrongly liberal/Democratic

Local Politics

Diverse, with active involvement in social issuesProgressive, with a focus on sustainability and inclusivity

Religion

Multicultural religious practices, including Christianity, Judaism, Islam, Buddhism, and HinduismReligious diversity, but with a notable number of people identifying as non-religious

In both cities, you'll find a predominantly liberal and Democratic-leaning population, though San Francisco might present an even more progressive community. This is particularly visible in local politics where San Francisco's emphasis on sustainability and inclusiveness sets a high standard. Religious practices in NYC cover a broad spectrum from Christianity to Buddhism, reflecting its highly multicultural population. San Francisco, while also diverse, has a significant portion of its population identifying as non-religious. This facet of San Francisco points to its openness and acceptance of various lifestyle and belief systems.

Traffic and Public Transit Considerations for Moving from New York City to San Francisco

Moving from New York City, NY to San Francisco, CA, it’s crucial to understand how this impacts your daily commute and traffic experiences. This comparison of the traffic and transportation options between New York City & San Francisco is designed to give you a clear picture of what to expect when transitioning from the East Coast to the West.

New York CitySan Francisco
4134

Avg Commute Time (in minutes)

87

Traffic Congestion (out of 10)

109

Availability of Public Transit (out of 10)

YesYes, but less convenient

Can you get by without car?

Both New York City and San Francisco offer robust public transportation systems, but there are some nuances. For instance, NYC’s transit system is more extensive, allowing you to easily navigate the city without a car. On the other hand, while SF’s public transit is also reliable, you might find certain areas less accessible without a vehicle. Traffic congestion in NYC is slightly higher due to its dense population and narrower streets, making the average commute time longer than in SF. Understanding these differences can help you better plan your daily travel and explore alternative commuting options in your new city.

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