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Austin to San Francisco Moving Guide Unlike Any You've Ever Read

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Embarking on a move from Austin, the Live Music Capital of the World, to San Francisco, the Golden City, symbolizes not just a change of address but an exciting chapter in your life story. You'll trade the laid-back vibe and smoky BBQ pits of Austin for San Francisco's iconic fog, tech giants, and steep, picturesque streets. Given the journey's significance, it’s essential to entrust this long-distance move to professional movers we've thoroughly vetted, ensuring you arrive ready to explore your new surroundings with peace of mind.

5 Best Movers for Moving from Austin to San Francisco

#1
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 5/23/2024)

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 >>

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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

San Bruno, CA
Local moves, Long distance moves, Packing and unpacking See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 5/24/2024)

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
#3
Heavenly Moving and Storage Logo
Exceptional
claimed company icon

based on 4,606+ data points

Austin, TX
Local moving, Long-distance moving, Full-service packing See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 5/23/2024)

USDOT: 3429695 Verify

About Heavenly Moving and Storage

Heavenly Moving and Storage has been one of Austin’s premier moving companies since 2005. This locally-owned moving company provides high-qu...Read More >>

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top 3 ranked movers in austin 2023 heavenly care moving storage image
top 3 ranked movers in austin 2022 heavenly care moving storage image
#4
A
Exceptional

based on 606+ data points

Volente, TX
Out of state moving services, Packing services, Office moving services See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 5/25/2024)

USDOT: 3119927 Verify

About Amen Moving

Amen Moving is a professional moving company based in Austin, TX. The company specializes in out of state moving and packing services, offic...Read More >>

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#5
Quality Moving & Storage Logo
Exceptional
claimed company icon

based on 365+ data points

Round Rock, TX
Local Moving, Long-Distance Moving, Packing Services See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 5/24/2024)

USDOT: 1947538 Verify

About Quality Moving & Storage

Quality Moving & Storage is a family-owned and operated moving company based in Austin, Texas. Established in 2003 with a single truck, ...Read More >>

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Relocating from Austin to San Francisco Neighborhood Guide

Moving can feel like a step into the unknown, especially when it’s to a new city. To ease the transition, we’ve compared popular neighborhoods in Austin, TX with their closest counterparts in San Francisco, CA . This guide will help you match the vibe and amenities of your current Austin neighborhood to your new San Francisco locale, making the Bay Area feel like home in no time.

AustinSan Francisco
South CongressHayes Valley

Vibrant shopping, dining scene

Travis HeightsMission District

Diverse, artsy community

TarrytownPacific Heights

Upscale homes, bay views

East AustinMission District

Rich cultural history, dynamic eateries

Hyde ParkHaight-Ashbury

Historic homes, eclectic shops

Barton HillsThe Castro

Vibrant, community-centric with parks

ZilkerDolores Park

Outdoor activities, lively atmosphere

CherrywoodNob Hill

Quiet, small-town feel in the city

MuellerPresidio Heights

Family-friendly, open spaces

ClarksvilleNorth Beach

Historic vibes, rich in cafes and culture

If you’re moving from the lively South Congress area in Austin, known for its bustling shopping and dining scene, you'll find a similar vibe in Hayes Valley with its trendy boutiques and hip coffee shops like Ritual Coffee Roasters. Conversely, the tranquil leafiness of Tarrytown has its match in Pacific Heights, offering strolls with stunning Bay views and heritage homes. For the culturally rich and diverse atmosphere of East Austin, the Mission District stands out in San Francisco with its mural-lined streets, like those found on Clarion Alley, and a broad range of eateries from classic Mexican taquerias to modern fusion restaurants. Finally, if you enjoy the outdoor lifestyle of Zilker with access to green spaces and events, Dolores Park in San Francisco provides a similar community feel with panoramic city views, making it a favorite spot for picnics and social gatherings.

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Things to Do in San Francisco

  • Stroll through Golden Gate Park
  • Walk across the Golden Gate Bridge
  • Enjoy seafood at Fisherman's Wharf
  • Visit the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art
  • Ride a cable car
  • Shop at Ferry Building Marketplace

Ready to start your move?

Pros and Cons of Moving from Austin to San Francisco

Moving from Austin, TX to San Francisco, CA presents a unique opportunity to weigh distinct lifestyle shifts. This comparison will provide an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of relocating from Austin, TX to San Francisco, CA , helping you make an informed decision about this significant change.

CONs
PROs
Austin, TX iconAustin, TX
  • Hot summers
  • Less tech jobs
  • Smaller cultural scene
  • Lower walkability
San Francisco, CA iconSan Francisco, CA
  • Cooler climate
  • More tech opportunities
  • Vibrant cultural diversity
  • High walkability
San Francisco, CA iconSan Francisco, CA
  • Higher cost of living
  • Denser population
  • Smaller spaces
  • Faster pace
Austin, TX iconAustin, TX
  • Lower cost of living
  • Friendly locals
  • Spacious living
  • Laid-back lifestyle

While the relocation from Austin to San Francisco may introduce you to a cooler climate and a booming tech scene, it's essential to also acknowledge factors like the high cost of living in San Francisco. However, the cultural tapestry of neighborhoods like the Mission District, with its vibrant murals, and the gastronomic haven that is North Beach, known for its authentic Italian restaurants such as Tony’s Pizza Napoletana, enrich the experience of living in San Francisco. Moreover, the proximity to iconic sights such as the Golden Gate Bridge and natural wonders like Muir Woods National Monument provides an unmatched quality of life, despite the smaller living spaces and faster pace. Weighing these factors will help you decide if this city's dynamic ecosystem aligns with your lifestyle aspirations.

Food Scene Guide When Moving from Austin to San Francisco

Food deeply enriches our understanding of local culture and what day-to-day life is like in any area. To help you transition smoothly, we've outlined a comparison of the local cuisine between Austin & San Francisco, offering insight into each city's food scene you're moving into or from.

AustinSan Francisco

Most iconic local food item

Brisket BBQSourdough Bread

Most popular meat dish

Texas-style BBQCioppino

Most popular street food item

TacosMission Burritos

Most popular vegan food

BBQ JackfruitVegan Ramen

Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city

  • Swan Oyster Depot
  • Tartine Bakery
  • The Slanted Door

Fitness/Health Conscientiousness

79

Abundance of Food Trucks

96

Foodie Scene

89

Vegan Friendly

79

In Austin, when it comes to a meat lover's paradise, nothing beats the slow-cooked, smoky flavors found in their revered BBQ joints, particularly the brisket which is a local staple. Among the most celebrated is Franklin Barbecue, known for long lines and legendary eats. Alternatively, San Francisco offers a diverse and health-conscious culinary scene, best illustrated by its famous sourdough bread and the seafood stew, Cioppino, found in historic eateries like Swan Oyster Depot. For vegans, San Francisco's innovative plant-based cuisine is showcased in dishes like vegan ramen from numerous eateries throughout the city, reflecting its higher vegan-friendly score. Both cities boast vibrant food truck scenes, but Austin's slightly edges out with a wider variety, especially for taco enthusiasts exploring the streets of South Congress or East Austin.

Restaurant Guide for Moving from Austin to San Francisco

Relocating isn't just about finding a new place to live; it's about discovering where you'll enjoy eating out and feeling at home. This restaurant comparison aims to ease your move from Austin to San Francisco, guiding you to your new favorite spots based on what you already love. This comparison chart helps you find equivalent restaurants from Austin to San Francisco, making the transition tastier and more familiar.

Franklin Barbecue4505 Burgers & BBQ

Similar dedication to high-quality smoked meats

UchiUMA Casa

Exceptional take on unique and traditional dishes

Torchy's TacosLa Taqueria

Famous for their mission-style burritos, akin to Torchy's innovative tacos

Matt's El RanchoNopalito

Authentic Mexican cuisine focusing on organic ingredients

Home Slice PizzaTony’s Pizza Napoletana

Hand-tossed authentic Italian pies

Odd DuckState Bird Provisions

Both offer innovative, locally sourced small plates

Kemuri Tatsu-yaIzakaya Rintaro

Combines traditional izakaya and Texas smokehouse flavors

SwayHawker Fare

Asian cuisine with a unique, fiery twist

Veracruz All NaturalEl Buen Comer

Homestyle Mexican food that highlights traditional flavors

Barley SwineLazy Bear

Both are known for their seasonal and experimental tasting menus

For those who have relished the distinctive flavors at Kemuri Tatsu-ya in Austin, Izakaya Rintaro in San Francisco awaits to mesmerize you with a seamless blend of traditional Japanese izakaya fare with hints of Californian flair, reflecting the innovative spirit of Kemuri Tatsu-ya's Texas-inspired Japanese dishes. If your taste buds have been enchanted by the eclectic mix of local ingredients at Odd Duck, you'll find a kindred spirit in State Bird Provisions, where the adventurous small plates promise an equally thrilling culinary journey. And for aficionados of authentic Mexican cuisine missing the bold flavors of Veracruz All Natural, El Buen Comer in San Francisco serves up homestyle dishes that pay homage to the rich culinary traditions of Mexico, welcoming you with the warmth and comfort of familiar flavors in your new city.

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Ready to start your move?

Real Estate Facts to Know Before Moving from Austin to San Francisco

Understanding the real estate market is crucial when moving from one city to another. In this comparison, we’ll examine how Austin, TX, and San Francisco, CA stack up in terms of housing costs, styles, and living qualities . Knowing these differences will help you make an informed decision about your relocation.

In comparing Austin and San Francisco, we see remarkable differences, especially in housing costs. While Austin offers a modern and ranch architectural vibe with a more accessible housing market, San Francisco stands out with its iconic Victorian homes and steep prices. The city's high walkability, bikeability, and urban lifestyle scores reflect San Francisco's dense, vibrant nature. Properties in San Francisco often highlight breathtaking views and easy access to city amenities like SFMOMA or Golden Gate Park, signaling a premium on location and lifestyle that's less emphasized in Austin's listings, where open floor plans and outdoor spaces cater to a desire for spaciousness and connection with nature.

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Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in San Francisco, CA

1. Marina District: Known for its scenic beauty and outdoor spaces like Marina Green, you’ll find plenty of places to walk and play with your pet.

2. Mission District: With pet-friendly restaurants and numerous dog parks, including the popular Dolores Park, your furry friends are always welcome in this vibrant neighborhood.

3. Outer Sunset: Close to Ocean Beach and Fort Funston, known for its off-leash areas and breathtaking views, making it a paradise for dogs and their owners.

Weather Considerations for Moving from Austin to San Francisco

When planning a move from one city to another, understanding the weather differences is crucial for a smooth transition. In this guide, we compare the climates of Austin, TX, and San Francisco, CA to help you anticipate how your day-to-day life will change.

Summer icon
95°F / 72°F

Austin, TX

68°F / 54°F

San Francisco, CA

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
62°F / 42°F

Austin, TX

57°F / 46°F

San Francisco, CA

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
34"

Austin, TX

25"

San Francisco, CA

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
0.0"

Austin, TX

0.0"

San Francisco, CA

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

Relocating from Austin to San Francisco, you'll encounter a cooler, more temperate climate, especially during the summer months where the high averages are significantly lower in San Francisco. The humidity in San Francisco is slightly higher, attributable to its coastal location, but this is balanced by its overall better air quality. Natural disaster risks shift from heatwaves and droughts to earthquakes, requiring different preparedness. Understanding these changes will help you adjust more seamlessly to your new environment.

Ready to start your move?

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

When moving from one city to another, it's crucial to understand how the cost of living and financial environment in Austin compares to San Francisco. This comparison can guide you in budgeting and financial planning for your move.

The financial and economic landscapes of Austin and San Francisco present sharp contrasts that are important for potential movers to consider. For instance, while Austin offers a more favorable average property tax rate, San Francisco's significantly higher average household income reflects its thriving economy and affluence. However, this comes with a much higher cost of living, driven in part by the city's robust real estate market and high demand for housing. The difference in state income tax rates further highlights the financial adjustments needed when relocating. Understanding these differences can help you establish realistic expectations and prepare accordingly for the economic realities of your new home.

Political & Religious Comparison between Austin, TX and San Francisco, CA

In this brief overview, we’re drawing a quick snapshot to understand the comparison of the politics and religious landscapes between Austin & San Francisco . This comparison aims to offer a glance at the core beliefs that shape the day-to-day and broader community philosophies in these vibrant cities.

AustinSan Francisco

Political Make-up

Liberal leaning with a mix of conservative pocketsStrongly liberal and progressive

Local Politics

Active engagement in state and local issues, City of AustinHighly politically active, with a focus on progressive issues, City of San Francisco

Religion

Variety of religious beliefs with a significant number of non-affiliatesPluralistic, with a significant portion of the population identifying as non-religious

While both Austin and San Francisco share a liberal inclination, the nuances in their political and religious makeups provide a rich tapestry that defines each city's unique culture. Austin presents a fascinating blend, harboring a more diverse political environment within Texas, balancing liberal perspectives with conservative ones. In contrast, San Francisco is renowned for its strongly liberal stance and activism on progressive issues, making it a hub for advocacy and change. The religious landscape in both cities reflects a broader trend toward a pluralistic society, with a noticeable tilt towards non-affiliation, highlighting the secular nature of societal values and community life in these urban settings.

Traffic and Public Transit Considerations for Moving from Austin to San Francisco

Moving from Austin, TX to San Francisco, CA, entails navigating a whole new world of daily commutes and traffic jams. This comparison between Austin & San Francisco is designed to help you better understand what your daily commute and traffic is like.

AustinSan Francisco
2634

Avg Commute Time (in minutes)

78

Traffic Congestion (out of 10)

69

Availability of Public Transit (out of 10)

ChallengingEasier

Can you get by without car?

While Austin offers a relatively shorter average commute time, it struggles with significant traffic congestion, with its public transit options lagging behind those of San Francisco. San Francisco, despite having higher traffic congestion, boasts an extensive public transit network, making it considerably easier to navigate without a car. The city's emphasis on bus lines, the BART, and other transit options contribute to this ease. Ultimately, your choice between the two may hinge on your willingness to embrace public transit over personal car use.

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