Moving from Memphis to Oakland?

5 Best Movers and Your Ultimate Moving Guide

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Memphis to Oakland Movers

Moving from city to city is not just a relocation; it's embarking on an exciting adventure that opens up a new chapter in your life. Leaving behind the soulful rhythms and BBQ scents of Memphis, the "Home of the Blues," for the innovative spirit and diverse cultures of Oakland, the "Bright Side of the Bay," signifies a significant leap into a fresh, promising environment. Understanding the magnitude of such a long-distance move, we stress the importance of entrusting your journey to professional movers who are both trusted and reliable, ensuring a smooth transition to your new adventures.

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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Oakland to Memphis guide.

5 Best Memphis to Oakland Movers

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

#1
OCD Moving Services LLC Logo
Exceptional

based on 3,273+ data points

Location DotEl Sobrante, CA
GearLocal Moving, Long Distance Moving, Commercial Moving See More
Circle CheckAuthorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/10/2024)

Circle DotUSDOT: 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

Location DotSan Bruno, CA
GearLocal moves, Long distance moves, Packing and unpacking See More
Circle CheckAuthorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/11/2024)

Circle DotUSDOT: 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
Garrett's Hauling Logo
Superb

based on 324+ data points

Location DotGallaway, TN
GearLocal Moving, Long Distance Moving, Commercial Moving See More
Circle CheckAuthorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/12/2024)

Circle DotUSDOT: 3819914 Verify

About Garrett's Hauling

Garrett's Hauling, a recently established moving company in 2021, is based in Cordova, Tennessee, and offers moving services in Cordova, Ger...Read More >>

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#4
Country Club Moving & Packing Inc. Logo
Fabulous

based on 1,059+ data points

Location DotCollierville, TN
GearLocal and Long Distance Moving, Whole House Moving, Commercial and Office Moving See More
Circle CheckAuthorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/11/2024)

Circle DotUSDOT: 1552549 Verify

About Country Club Moving & Packing Inc.

Country Club Moving and Packing Inc. is a family-owned moving company that has been providing high-quality, low-price moves since 1994 in Me...Read More >>

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top 10 ranked movers in memphis 2023 country club moving packing inc image
top 10 ranked movers in memphis 2022 country club moving packing inc image
#5
Polk's Reliable Delivery Services, LLC Logo
Fabulous

based on 130+ data points

Location DotBartlett, TN
GearCheap moving services, Local moving services, Long-distance moving services See More
Circle CheckAuthorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/11/2024)

Circle DotUSDOT: 3797931 Verify

About Polk's Reliable Delivery Services, LLC

Polk's Reliable Delivery Services, LLC is a family-owned moving company based in Bartlett, TN, with over 14 years of experience in providing...Read More >>

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Relocating from Memphis to Oakland Neighborhood Guide

Moving from one city to another can be daunting, especially when you're not familiar with your new home. To ease this transition, we've created a guide that offers a comparison of the local neighborhoods between Memphis, TN & Oakland, CA. This will help you find a new neighborhood that feels like home by using what you already love about your current one as a baseline.

MemphisOakland
MidtownRockridge

Vibrant, artsy community with similar cultural diversity

East MemphisPiedmont Avenue

Upscale living with local dining and shopping

Cooper-YoungTemescal

Hipster-friendly with a strong sense of community and eclectic shops

GermantownMontclair

Family-friendly, with a quieter, suburban feel and green spaces

DowntownJack London Square

Waterfront views, bustling nightlife and dining

South MainOld Oakland

Historic charm with modern conveniences and nightlife

Harbor TownAlameda

Island living with a laid-back vibe and great schools

CordovaLake Merritt

Diverse community with a mix of urban and natural attractions

BerclairFruitvale

Culturally rich, with a strong sense of community and history

High Point TerraceGlenview

Quiet, residential area with a mix of dining and local commerce

If you're drawn to the eclectic, vibrant atmosphere of Cooper-Young in Memphis, you'll feel right at home in Temescal. This Oakland neighborhood brims with hipster-friendly coffee shops like Blue Bottle Coffee and unique stores, mirroring the close-knit community and diversity found in Cooper-Young. For those who appreciate the upscale, suburban feel of East Memphis, Piedmont Avenue provides an inviting blend of high-end retail and cozy, local dining spots such as Commis, a Michelin-starred restaurant, creating an atmosphere where luxury meets community. Meanwhile, the historical charm of South Main's streets is echoed in Old Oakland, where modern amenities meet historical architecture, offering a seamless blend of past and present for its residents. Each Oakland neighborhood carries its own unique character and charm, offering something special for everyone transitioning from Memphis.

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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 Memphis to Oakland

Moving to a new city is always a significant life change. This comparison aims to provide an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of relocating from Memphis, TN to Oakland, CA. By examining the cons and pros, this guide hopes to present a balanced perspective to assist in your decision-making process.

CONs
PROs
Memphis, TN iconMemphis, TN
  • Higher crime rate
  • Hot, humid summers
  • Fewer job opportunities
  • Less public transit
Oakland, CA iconOakland, CA
  • More diverse culture
  • Milder climate
  • Tech job hub
  • Better public transit
Oakland, CA iconOakland, CA
  • Higher living costs
  • Less blues music
  • Faster-paced lifestyle
  • Smaller spaces
Memphis, TN iconMemphis, TN
  • Lower cost of living
  • Soulful music scene
  • Friendly communities
  • Spacious living

Moving from Memphis, TN, to Oakland, CA, invites a myriad of changes into your lifestyle. The weather change from Memphis's hot, humid summers to Oakland's milder climate may come as a relief. Oakland's vibrant, diverse cultural scene is mirrored in its offerings, from the eclectic mix of restaurants in Chinatown, such as the renowned Shandong Restaurant, to the scenic beauty and outdoor activities available at Lake Merritt or the Redwood Regional Park. However, prepare for a significant shift in living expenses and housing sizes – this bustling city is known for its higher cost of living. The transition might involve adapting to a faster-paced lifestyle. Yet, the tech-driven economy in Oakland provides ample professional opportunities, especially for those in the technology sector.

Food Scene Guide When Moving from Memphis to Oakland

Understanding the culinary landscape is crucial when relocating, as food plays a significant role in experiencing local culture. In this guide, we'll delve into a comparison of the local cuisine between Memphis & Oakland so you can be well-informed about the diverse food scenes awaiting in your new city.

MemphisOakland

Most iconic local food item

Barbecue ribs
Sourdough bread

Most popular meat dish

Pulled pork sandwich
Korean BBQ

Most popular street food item

Barbecue nachos
Tacos

Most popular vegan food

BBQ tofu
Avocado toast

Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city

  • The Rendezvous
  • Central BBQ
  • Charlie Vergos' Rendezvous

Fitness/Health Conscientiousness

7
9

Abundance of Food Trucks

6
8

Foodie Scene

8
9

Vegan Friendly

7
9

In Memphis, the love for BBQ permeates almost every corner of the city, with iconic spots like Central BBQ serving up mouthwatering dishes that epitomize local flavors. Meanwhile, Oakland introduces a more diverse and health-conscious culinary scene. Here, the legendary Chez Panisse, situated in the quaint Berkley neighborhood, pioneers the farm-to-table movement, offering fresh, organic options. The vibrant street food scene, highlighted by innovative food trucks and street vendors, especially in areas like Fruitvale for tacos, showcases the city's cultural diversity through its culinary offerings. Whether you crave the smoky delicacies of Memphis BBQ or the organic, diverse flavors of Oakland, each city offers a unique palate experience, reflective of its cultural identity and lifestyle.

Restaurant Guide for Moving from Memphis to Oakland

Food forms the heart of any home, and finding your next culinary love is crucial when moving cities. This restaurant comparison guide aims to ease the transition from Memphis, TN to Oakland, CA, by mapping out your future favorite eateries. Let's embark on a flavorful journey bridging the best of both cities.

Gus's World Famous Fried ChickenBrown Sugar Kitchen

Offers a twist on Southern comfort food, akin to Gus's but with waffles.

Flight Restaurant & Wine BarOrdinaire

Known for its diverse wine selection and small plates, echoing Flight's sophisticated vibe.

Central BBQHorn Barbecue

Brings authentic Texas-style barbecue to California, much like Central's dedication to Memphis-style BBQ.

Huey'sTrueBurger

A local burger favorite with a similar dedication to quality and casual dining atmosphere.

Arcade RestaurantDyafa

Celebrates traditional and innovative Middle Eastern dishes, providing a similar iconic dining experience.

The Beauty ShopDonna's

Offers a unique dining setting with equally creative and high-quality dishes, reminiscent of The Beauty Shop's flair.

Andrew Michael Italian KitchenPasta Ramen

Fuses Italian techniques with Japanese flavors, offering a novel twist similar to Andrew Michael's Italian innovation.

Bryant's BreakfastMama's Royal Cafe

Known for hearty breakfasts and a homey feel, encapsulating Bryant's essence.

RendezvousEverett & Jones Barbeque

A staple for BBQ lovers, offering a vibe and taste that rivals the legendary status of Rendezvous.

Maciel's Tortas & TacosXolo

Delivers authentic Mexican street food, mirroring Maciel’s dedication to quality and taste.

One of the joys of moving to a new city is finding places that remind you of home while offering their own local flair. For instance, Horn Barbecue in Oakland not only pays homage to the deep-rooted tradition of barbecue, much like Memphis's Central BBQ, but it also brings a unique Texan touch to California. Meanwhile, at Dyafa, you'll be immersed in a sumptuous Middle Eastern dining experience that parallels the unique and historical vibes of Arcade Restaurant in Memphis. This blend of the familiar and the exciting ensures that, even far from Memphis, your culinary journey in Oakland will be both comforting and adventurous.

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Ready to start your move?

Real Estate Facts to Know Before Moving from Memphis to Oakland

Real estate significantly influences the decision-making process when planning a move. Understanding how housing options in Memphis, TN and Oakland, CA compare can illuminate key differences and similarities. This comparison will explore various housing dimensions to ensure you make an informed choice.

When moving from Memphis to Oakland, you'll find a dramatic shift in housing costs and lifestyle. Oakland boasts a high urban lifestyle score due to its vibrant city life and abundance of amenities, including eco-friendly housing options and easy access to public transport. While both cities feature historic architecture, Oakland’s Victorian homes stand out for their unique charm. Additionally, Oakland's higher walkability and bikeability scores highlight its infrastructure built to support a more active and environmentally conscious lifestyle. Such contrasts underline the significant adjustment required when relocating, especially considering the substantial difference in housing costs.

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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 Memphis to Oakland

Moving from one location to another brings a lot of changes, and among them, weather stands out as a significant factor to consider. Understanding how the climate shifts from Memphis, TN to Oakland, CA will prepare you for what to expect and help ensure a smoother transition to your new environment.

Summer icon
90°F / 71°F

Memphis, TN

74°F / 56°F

Oakland, CA

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
50°F / 32°F

Memphis, TN

58°F / 44°F

Oakland, CA

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
53"

Memphis, TN

23"

Oakland, CA

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
3"

Memphis, TN

0"

Oakland, CA

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

When comparing the weather between Memphis and Oakland, it's evident that Oakland enjoys milder temperatures, especially during the summer, and more sunny days throughout the year. While both cities share similar annual UV indexes, Oakland's lower humidity level contributes to a more comfortable living environment for many. Moreover, the shift from dealing with tornadoes and storms in Memphis to preparing for earthquakes and wildfires in Oakland represents a significant change in natural disaster preparedness. The dramatic decrease in annual rainfall and absence of snow in Oakland also marks a clear departure from Memphis's wetter and occasionally snowy climate.

Ready to start your move?

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

When planning a move from one location to another, it's crucial to grasp the financial landscape you're stepping into. Emphasizing the necessity of such an understanding, we present a comparison chart highlighting the cost of living, taxation, and economic atmosphere from Memphis, TN to Oakland, CA . This information is key to setting realistic financial expectations for your new home.

While average household incomes in Oakland are generally higher than in Memphis, the cost of living index in Oakland substantially surpasses that of Memphis, suggesting that the increased income may be offset by higher living expenses. Oakland's state income tax presents an additional expense that does not apply in Memphis, potentially affecting your take-home pay. On the other hand, property taxes in Oakland are lower relative to Memphis, which may influence decisions regarding home ownership. Considering the higher affluence and lower poverty rates in Oakland, it's clear the economic atmosphere varies significantly from Memphis, necessitating a thoughtful financial plan when moving.

Political & Religious Comparison between Memphis, TN and Oakland, CA

Moving from Memphis, TN to Oakland, CA involves not just a change in scenery but also immersing oneself in diverse cultural environments. This comparison is designed to provide a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents in Memphis & Oakland , aiding in understanding the societal changes one might experience.

MemphisOakland

Political Make-up

Lean DemocraticStrongly Democratic

Local Politics

Moderate, with focus on community issuesLiberal, with emphasis on social justice

Religion

Christianity predominant, with a mix of denominationsDiverse; includes Christianity, Buddhism, Islam, and non-affiliated

Living in Memphis might have accustomed you to a political environment that leans Democratic, but moving to Oakland, you'll enter a place known for its strong liberal and Democratic tendencies. Local politics in Oakland are particularly vibrant, often focusing heavily on social justice, environmental concerns, and community engagement, a shift from the more moderate community-focused political discussions common in Memphis. Religion in Oakland presents itself as markedly diverse. While Christianity remains prevalent, the city is home to a rich tapestry of religious practices including Buddhism and Islam, reflecting its multicultural populace. Those moving from Memphis will find Oakland's varied religious landscape to be a significant difference, offering an opportunity to explore new cultural and spiritual dimensions.

Traffic and Public Transit Considerations for Moving from Memphis to Oakland

Moving from Memphis, TN to Oakland, CA entails understanding the significant differences between the daily commute and traffic experiences. This comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Memphis & Oakland will help you adapt to your new city more smoothly.

MemphisOakland
2532

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 car?

When moving to Oakland from Memphis, you'll find the average commute time increases by several minutes, which might be attributed to the greater traffic congestion in the area. However, Oakland offers a much more robust public transit system compared to Memphis, making it feasible and often more convenient to navigate the city without a personal vehicle. This difference in public transit availability means relying on services like the BART (Bay Area Rapid Transit) and buses becomes a viable option for your daily commute, opening up a more sustainable way to explore your new city.

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