Moving from Nashville to Oakland?

5 Best Movers and Your Ultimate Moving Guide

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Nashville to Oakland Movers

Moving from Nashville, TN to Oakland, CA isn’t just a change of address; it’s an exciting journey into a new chapter of your life. You’re trading the soulful tunes and smoky BBQ of Music City for the vibrant diversity and progressive spirit of the Bay Area. Given the distance and complexities of such a move, it's essential to entrust your belongings to professional movers who are not just reliable, but the best. Our mission is to connect you with movers that meet these criteria, ensuring a smooth transition to your next adventure.

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

5 Best Nashville 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 >>

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
#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
Little Guys Movers Nashville Logo
Exceptional

based on 182+ data points

Location DotNashville, TN
GearLong Distance Moving, Local Moving, Commercial Moving See More
Circle CheckAuthorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/11/2024)

Circle DotUSDOT: 4004993 Verify

About Little Guys Movers Nashville

Established in 1992, Little Guys Movers Nashville is a highly regarded franchise providing numerous moving and packing services. They cater ...Read More >>

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#4
6th Man Movers Logo
Superb

based on 5,314+ data points

Location DotNashville, TN
GearLocal Moving, Long Distance, Labor Only See More
Circle CheckAuthorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/10/2024)

Circle DotUSDOT: 2315850 Verify

About 6th Man Movers

As a locally owned and operated moving company based in Nashville, Tennessee, 6th Man Movers serves Nashville residents with high-quality re...Read More >>

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top 3 ranked movers in nashville 2023 6th man movers image
top 3 ranked movers in nashville 2022 6th man movers image
#5
Smooth Moving & Storage Logo
Superb

based on 346+ data points

Location DotNashville, TN
GearLocal moving, Long-distance moving, Residential moving See More
Circle CheckAuthorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/11/2024)

Circle DotUSDOT: 2472874 Verify

About Smooth Moving & Storage

Smooth Moving & Storage is a full-service moving and storage company based in Nashville, Tennessee, offering professional, reliable, and...Read More >>

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Relocating from Nashville to Oakland Neighborhood Guide

When moving from one city to another, getting to know your new surroundings can be quite the task. To ease this transition, we've crafted a comparison of local neighborhoods between Nashville, TN & Oakland, CA, matching similar communities. Whether you're drawn to bustling arts scenes or tranquil green spaces, this guide will help you find a slice of home in a new city.

NashvilleOakland
East NashvilleTemescal

Similar vibrant arts scene and indie businesses

12 SouthRockridge

Boutique shops and alfresco dining

The GulchUptown

Urban living, lively nightlife

Green HillsPiedmont Avenue

Upscale shopping, serene neighborhood feel

German townOld Oakland

Historic charm, strong community vibe

Hillsboro VillageLakeshore

Quaint and walkable, local landmarks

MidtownDowntown Oakland

Entertainment hub, high energy

Belle MeadeMontclair

Affluent, with lush surroundings and spacious homes

Sylvan ParkDimond District

Community-oriented with a mix of urban and suburban

West EndGrand Lake

Cultural events, natural beauty

In the bustling streets of East Nashville and Temescal, you'll find a shared appreciation for unique local art and indie ventures, from the trendy boutiques to the cozy coffee shops. If you're fond of the tranquil, green spaces and historic homes in Hillsboro Village, you'll enjoy exploring the Lakeshore neighborhood in Oakland, where attractions like the historic Oakland Public Library and the scenic Lake Merritt offer both cultural and natural beauty. Meanwhile, music and entertainment lovers migrating from The Gulch will find Uptown Oakland's vibrant nightlife and concert venues - such as the iconic Fox Theater - a perfect blend of urban excitement and artistic expression. No matter where you're from in Nashville, there's a corner of Oakland waiting to make you feel right at home.

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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 Nashville to Oakland

Moving from one city to another brings a mix of challenges and opportunities. This comparison aims to provide a balanced view of relocating from Nashville, TN to Oakland, CA , highlighting the good and the bad. By laying out the pros and cons, you'll be better prepared for what lies ahead in this significant life change.

CONs
PROs
Nashville, TN iconNashville, TN
  • Higher humidity
  • Less diversity
  • Country music focus
  • Fewer tech jobs
Oakland, CA iconOakland, CA
  • Milder climate
  • Greater diversity
  • Varied music scenes
  • More tech opportunities
Oakland, CA iconOakland, CA
  • Higher cost of living
  • Faster pace
  • Less country music
  • Denser living spaces
Nashville, TN iconNashville, TN
  • Lower cost of living
  • Laid-back culture
  • Country music scene
  • Spacious outdoors

Moving from Nashville to Oakland signals a significant shift in lifestyle and opportunities. Nashville's vibrant country music scene, epitomized by iconic venues like The Grand Ole Opry, contrasts with Oakland's diverse musical landscape, where venues like Fox Theater showcase a wide array of global talents. The transition from Nashville's spacious outdoors to Oakland's densely populated areas may be jarring, yet Oakland offers unique urban parks such as Lake Merritt, which provides a natural oasis in the city. While the cost of living in Oakland is notably higher, the move opens doors to expansive tech industry opportunities, nestled in the global innovation hub of the Bay Area. Embracing Oakland's faster pace and denser living spaces is rewarded with access to a tapestry of cultures, cuisines found in neighborhoods like Temescal, and a mild climate conducive to year-round outdoor activities.

Food Scene Guide When Moving from Nashville to Oakland

Food deeply influences the understanding of local culture and daily life, providing a delectable lens through which to view your new home. This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Nashville & Oakland, aimed at giving you a taste of what culinary delights await you in both cities.

NashvilleOakland

Most iconic local food item

Hot Chicken
Sourdough Bread

Most popular meat dish

BBQ Ribs
BBQ Brisket

Most popular street food item

Biscuits
Tacos

Most popular vegan food

BBQ Jackfruit
Vegan Ramen

Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city

  • Prince's Hot Chicken Shack
  • Arnold's Country Kitchen
  • Hattie B's Hot Chicken
  • Chez Panisse
  • Shakewell
  • Brown Sugar Kitchen

Fitness/Health Conscientiousness

7
9

Abundance of Food Trucks

6
8

Foodie Scene

8
9

Vegan Friendly

7
9

Moving from the heart of the South in Nashville to the diverse bay of Oakland introduces a significant shift in culinary experiences. Nashville's legendary hot chicken can be explored in its birthplace spots like Prince's Hot Chicken Shack, while Oakland counters with innovative vegan scenes and historical bakeries, such as Chez Panisse, rooted in the farm-to-table movement. Particularly, areas like Temescal in Oakland are famed for their street food scenes, offering an array of global cuisines, from Mexican tacos to Southeast Asian delights. This vibrant food diversity in Oakland, paired with its higher vegan-friendliness and health consciousness, offers a fresh and exciting culinary adventure for newcomers.

Restaurant Guide for Moving from Nashville to Oakland

Making a move can be a big adventure, especially when relocating from Nashville, TN to Oakland, CA. Part of feeling at home in a new city is discovering places that remind you of your old favorites. This restaurant comparison is designed to help you transition smoothly by finding the Oakland equivalents to your beloved Nashville eateries.

The Catbird SeatCommis

Intimate fine dining experience

Hattie B's Hot ChickenBrenda's Oakland

Known for Southern comfort food

Prince's Hot ChickenWorld Famous Hotboys

Hot chicken specialists

Arnold's Country KitchenBrown Sugar Kitchen

Southern soul food with a modern twist

City HousePizzaiolo

Italian cuisine in a cozy setting

The Loveless CafeSequoia Diner

Classic diner with homemade touches

Butchertown HallSmoke Berkeley

Craft BBQ with a Californian flair

Peg Leg PorkerEverett & Jones BBQ

Authentic BBQ tradition

Rolf and DaughtersDona Tomas

Inventive Mexican cuisine

BastionShakewell

Mediterranean-inspired fare with a creative twist

While relocating can sometimes mean leaving behind the familiar, it also opens up a world of new flavors and dining experiences. For instance, those who have enjoyed the exquisite dining at The Catbird Seat in Nashville will find a similar culinary adventure awaiting at Commis in Oakland, where each dish is a masterpiece of flavors. Likewise, fans of Nashville's beloved hot chicken will be delighted to discover World Famous Hotboys, offering a West Coast take on this Southern classic. Each Oakland eatery listed brings its unique twist to the table, ensuring your new dining landscape is as rich and vibrant as the one you're leaving behind.

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Ready to start your move?

Real Estate Facts to Know Before Moving from Nashville to Oakland

When deciding to move from Nashville, TN, to Oakland, CA, understanding the real estate market comparison between these two cities is crucial. Housing is a significant aspect of any relocation, and knowing how Nashville and Oakland stack up against each other can greatly influence your decision-making process.

In comparing real estate aspects of Nashville and Oakland, one noticeable fact is Oakland's higher cost of living, as seen in both the median home prices and rent costs. However, Oakland offers a more walkable and bikeable urban environment compared to Nashville, which might appeal to those seeking a city lifestyle. The architectural styles also differ significantly, with Oakland presenting a charming mix of Victorian and modern homes. For those who prioritize sustainability and access to public transportation, Oakland's real estate listings frequently highlight eco-friendly features and proximity to transit options—one reason for its higher urban lifestyle score.

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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 Nashville to Oakland

When planning a move from one city to another, it's essential to understand how the weather in Nashville and Oakland will impact your daily life and adjustments. This comparison aims to highlight the key meteorological differences to prepare you for your new environment.

Summer icon
89/70

Nashville, TN

74/56

Oakland, CA

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
49/30

Nashville, TN

58/44

Oakland, CA

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
47

Nashville, TN

23

Oakland, CA

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
6

Nashville, TN

0

Oakland, CA

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

When moving from Nashville to Oakland, you'll notice a significant shift in both temperature and weather patterns. In Oakland, summers are milder and winters are warmer, making the climate pleasant year-round. While Nashville residents are accustomed to the potential for tornadoes and high humidity, Oakland offers a drier climate with the unique challenge of earthquakes and occasional wildfires. This transition means you'll enjoy more sunny days in Oakland, but also need to be prepared for its specific environmental considerations.

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

Moving from one location to another can cause a financial whirlwind if you're not prepared. Understanding how the cost of living and financial factors between Nashville and Oakland will affect your wallet is crucial for a smooth transition.

When comparing Nashville to Oakland, there's a noticeable difference in the cost of living, with Oakland ranking significantly higher. This difference is partly due to Oakland's proximity to the hub of technology and innovation, leading to inflated living costs. Despite Tennessee having no state income tax, which is appealing to many, California's higher average household income might offset its high state income tax rate and cost of living for those working in top-paying industries. However, issues such as poverty and homelessness are pressing in both cities, albeit more pronounced in Oakland, indicating the complex socio-economic dynamics at play. Understanding these factors will help you make a more informed decision if planning a move.

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

When preparing for a move from Nashville, TN, to Oakland, CA, it's helpful to understand the landscape you're entering. This comparison provides a quick snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents between Nashville & Oakland . From political views to religious affiliations, get ready for a unique blend of cultures and ideologies.

NashvilleOakland

Political Make-up

Lean ConservativeVery Liberal

Local Politics

Mixed, with a history of both Democratic and Republican leadershipStrongly Democratic

Religion

Majority Christian, with a significant presence of the Baptist churchDiverse, with a large number of non-religious individuals and a variety of faiths represented

Moving from Nashville to Oakland means transitioning from a city with a lean conservative tilt to one that's known for its very liberal stance, especially concerning local politics where Oakland shows a strong Democratic dominance. The religious landscape also varies significantly. While Nashville hosts a major Christian population, including a significant Baptist community, Oakland embraces a wide range of belief systems, including a noticeable segment of non-religious individuals. This diversity in both politics and religion contributes to Oakland's vibrant, inclusive atmosphere, aligning with California's broader progressive spirit.

Traffic and Public Transit Considerations for Moving from Nashville to Oakland

Moving from Nashville, TN to Oakland, CA, it's crucial to understand how your daily commute and traffic experiences will change. This comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Nashville & Oakland aims to give you a clearer picture of what to expect in each city.

NashvilleOakland
2530

Avg Commute Time (in minutes)

67

Traffic Congestion (out of 10)

38

Availability of Public Transit (out of 10)

ChallengingYes

Can you get by without a car?

While Nashville offers a relatively faster average commute time, it falls behind Oakland in terms of public transit options. In Oakland, you'll find a comprehensive network of buses, BART (Bay Area Rapid Transit), and other forms of public transportation, making it feasible to live without owning a car. The slightly higher traffic congestion in Oakland is offset by these convenient transit options. This stark difference in the accessibility and availability of public transit can significantly impact your daily life and commuting habits, especially if you're looking to reduce your reliance on a personal vehicle.

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