Best Houston to San Francisco Movers and Practical Moving Guide

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Houston to San Francisco Movers

Moving from the bustling energy of Houston, TX to the innovative spirit of San Francisco, CA is an adventure that promises not just a change of scenery but a transformative life journey. Leaving behind Houston's spacious skies and welcoming warmth for the iconic Golden Gate and tech-driven vibrancy of "The City by the Bay" marks a bold step into a new chapter. In this significant journey, the importance of relying on trusted and reliable professional movers cannot be overstated, ensuring your possessions sail smoothly across the miles with you.

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Best Houston 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
Pinpoint Movers8.76A+Authorized For HHGContact
Right Rate Movers of Houston8.67NRActiveContact
Go Movers8.51NRAuthorized For HHGContact
Phone (800) 787-5428
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from San Francisco to Houston guide.

5 Best Houston 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
Pinpoint Movers Logo
Superb8.76/10
based on 2,347+ data points

About Pinpoint Movers

Pinpoint Movers is a women-owned and family-operated moving company located in Houston, Texas that is licensed and insured to handle all you...Read More >>

Services

  • Homepage:
  • Residential moving
  • Commercial moving

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3070055 / 944442

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans1
Registered Drivers1
Total Annual Miles Moved1 (2021)
View Full Review
3
Right Rate Movers of Houston Logo
Fabulous8.67/10
based on 3,973+ data points

About Right Rate Movers of Houston

Right Rate Movers of Houston is a trusted and reliable moving company recognized as an industry leader in terms of affordability and efficie...Read More >>

Services

  • Residential Moving
  • Labor Only
  • Packing Services

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 9/14/2021)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2200927 / -

Active

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans1
Registered Drivers1
Total Annual Miles Moved-
View Full Review
4
Go Movers Logo
Fabulous8.51/10
based on 401+ data points

About Go Movers

Go Movers has been serving as Houston, TX's trusted relocation experts for the past 10 years. They provide both local and nationwide moving ...Read More >>

Services

  • Local moves
  • Nationwide moves
  • Cheap moves

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 8/9/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3790949 / 1365663

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans1
Registered Drivers2
Total Annual Miles Moved200 (2023)
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.

Houston vs. San Francisco Neighborhood Comparison

Moving to a new city can be overwhelming, especially when you're trying to find a neighborhood that feels like home. To ease this transition, we've created a comparison of the local neighborhoods between Houston, TX & San Francisco, CA. By leveraging the familiarity of your Houston neighborhood, we'll help you discover a similar vibe in your new San Francisco locale.

HoustonSan FranciscoHow They're Similar
The HeightsMission DistrictVibrant arts scene
MontroseThe CastroDiverse, rich in culture
River OaksPacific HeightsUpscale, stunning views
MidtownSOMA (South of Market)Trendy, urban
Eado (East Downtown)DogpatchIndustrial chic, waterfront
West UniversityMarina DistrictYoung, active community
GalleriaUnion SquareShopping, bustling
Rice MilitaryNob HillElegant, central, historic
Clear LakeOuter SunsetFamily-friendly, near the beach
MemorialPresidio HeightsQuiet, upscale residences

If you're drawn to the eclectic and vibrant arts scene of The Heights in Houston, you'll find a kindred spirit in San Francisco's Mission District, known for its murals and bustling food scene, including popular spots like Tartine Bakery and Lolinda. For those who appreciate the upscale ambiance and stunning homes in River Oaks, Pacific Heights offers a similarly luxurious lifestyle with breathtaking views of the Golden Gate Bridge. Seeking an active lifestyle complemented by charming cafes and a young vibe? West University's counterpart in San Francisco is none other than the Marina District, home to scenic strolls in Crissy Field and stylish boutiques on Chestnut Street.

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Pros and Cons of Moving from Houston to San Francisco

Moving from Houston, TX to San Francisco, CA involves weighing various factors to make an informed decision. This comparison aims to show an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of moving from Houston to San Francisco , highlighting the key differences and what they might mean for your lifestyle and well-being.

CONs
PROs
Houston, TX iconHouston, TX
  • High humidity
  • Lower walkability
  • Fewer cultural venues
  • Minimal public transit
San Francisco, CA iconSan Francisco, CA
  • Cooler climate
  • High walkability
  • Richer cultural scene
  • Extensive public transit
San Francisco, CA iconSan Francisco, CA
  • Higher cost of living
  • Smaller living spaces
  • Limited outdoor space
  • Expensive dining
Houston, TX iconHouston, TX
  • Lower cost of living
  • Spacious housing
  • Larger yards
  • More affordable dining

Moving from Houston to San Francisco introduces you to a city bustling with energy and diversity. In San Francisco, you'll quickly notice the city's commitment to culture and the arts with institutions like the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art and vibrant neighborhoods such as the Mission District, which is teeming with outstanding restaurants like La Taqueria. The cooler climate brings relief from Houston's humidity, offering a comfortable ambiance for enjoying the numerous parks and outdoor spaces like the iconic Golden Gate Park. Despite the higher cost of living, San Francisco's extensive public transit system and walkable neighborhoods simplify moving around the city, reducing the reliance on a car. Embracing San Francisco's lifestyle means adapting to smaller living spaces but with the benefit of having a world-class city full of sights and experiences right at your doorstep.

Houston vs. San Francisco Food Guide

Food reflects the spirit and culture of a place, influencing what it feels like to live there. In this guide, we compare the local cuisine between Houston & San Francisco to help you get acquainted with the food scene in your new city. Whether it's indulging in the most iconic local dishes or exploring vegan options, understanding these differences can make your transition smoother.

HoustonSan Francisco
Most iconic local food itemTexas BBQ BrisketSourdough Bread
Most popular meat dishFajitasCioppino
Most popular street food itemTacosMission Burrito
Most popular vegan foodVegan Tex-MexPlant-based Sushi
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
  • Pappadeaux Seafood Kitchen
  • Killen's Barbecue
  • The Original Ninfa's on Navigation
  • Tartine Bakery
  • Swan Oyster Depot
  • Gary Danko
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
Abundance of Food Trucks🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
Foodie Scene🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

When you move from Houston to San Francisco, you'll find yourself transitioning from the rich, meat-heavy flavors of Texan BBQ and Tex-Mex to the fresh, sour tang of sourdough bread and seafood-centric dishes like Cioppino, a rich seafood stew favored in the Bay Area. Houston's vibrant street tacos give way to the Mission District's famous burritos. Moreover, San Francisco's dining scene offers an abundance of plant-based options and health-conscious eateries, reflecting the city's high fitness and health conscientiousness ratings. Iconic restaurants like Gary Danko provide an upscale dining experience, while places like Tartine Bakery showcase the more casual but equally revered side of San Francisco's food culture.

Houston vs. San Francisco Restaurant Comparison

Relocating can be an overwhelming process, especially when it comes to finding places that feel like home in your new city. Food plays a significant role in this transition, making our comparison of top restaurants from Houston to San Francisco crucial for those seeking to recreate their dining experiences. This guide will help you discover your next favorite eateries, easing the adjustment to your new surroundings.

HoustonSan FranciscoWhat You'll Love
UchiRoka AkorJapanese fine-dining with a similar emphasis on fresh sushi and sashimi.
The Breakfast KlubBrenda's French Soul FoodComforting breakfast and brunch that harmonize soul food influences.
Hugo'sNopalitoAuthentic Mexican cuisine focusing on organic ingredients and traditional methods.
Common Bond Cafe & BakeryTartine BakeryHigh-quality, artisanal baked goods that have become iconic to the area.
Pappas Bros. SteakhouseHarris'The San Francisco Steakhouse for a similarly upscale steak dining experience.
UnderbellyState Bird ProvisionsInnovative American cuisine that pushes the boundaries like Underbelly.
Killen's BBQ4505 Burgers & BBQFocused on high-quality meats and classic BBQ with a Bay Area twist.
Ninfa's on NavigationLa TaqueriaOffers a memorable Mexican dining experience with award-winning tacos.
Pho Binh By NightPho Tan HoaAuthentic Vietnamese pho that warms the soul, similar in quality and taste.
Crawfish & NoodlesPPQ Dungeness IslandRenowned for seafood with a strong focus on Vietnamese-Cajun flavors.

When moving from Houston to San Francisco, the culinary transition can be as flavorful and exciting as the cities themselves. For instance, transitioning from the innovative American cuisine of Underbelly to the creative dishes at State Bird Provisions offers a similar adventure in dining, with each restaurant providing a unique twist on local ingredients. Similarly, seafood lovers will delight in swapping Crawfish & Noodles for PPQ Dungeness Island, where the focus on fresh seafood and Vietnamese-Cajun techniques continues. Both cities boast a diverse and vibrant dining scene, ensuring you'll quickly find new favorites to call your own. Whether it's indulging in the delicate pastries of Tartine Bakery, reminiscent of Houston's Common Bond Cafe & Bakery, or enjoying the authentic Mexican flavors at Nopalito, echoing the richness of Hugo's, San Francisco's culinary landscape offers a comforting bridge to your Houston favorites.

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Ready to start your move?

Houston vs. San Francisco Real Estate & Living Facts

When planning a move, it's crucial to understand how real estate factors such as housing costs, architecture, and urban lifestyle in Houston and San Francisco compare. This guide serves to illuminate these differences and assist in making an informed decision.

ComparisonHoustonSan Francisco
Typical Architecture StyleRanchVictorian
Walkability 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listingLarge yards, private poolsBay views, eco-friendly upgrades

Housing in Houston and San Francisco offers distinctly different experiences, reflective of the cities' unique lifestyles and cultures. Houston's real estate is characterized by more spacious homes with large yards, often including private pools, catering to those who value space and privacy. On the other hand, San Francisco's real estate market leans towards smaller, more historic homes that often offer eco-friendly upgrades and stunning bay views. Notably, San Francisco's exceptional walkability and bikeability scores indicate a city designed for movement and exploration, contrasting with Houston's more car-dependent lifestyle. These differences significantly influence the living experience, making it essential to consider what suits your lifestyle best when moving.

Houston vs. San Francisco Weather Considerations

When relocating, understanding how the weather between Houston, TX, and San Francisco, CA, will differ from what you're accustomed to is paramount. This comparison aims to highlight the weather variances to help you adjust to your new home in either Houston or San Francisco.

Summer icon
90°F / 75°F

Houston, TX

67°F / 54°F

San Francisco, CA

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
62°F / 43°F

Houston, TX

57°F / 46°F

San Francisco, CA

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
50"

Houston, TX

23"

San Francisco, CA

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
0

Houston, TX

0

San Francisco, CA

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

ComparisonHoustonSan Francisco
Air QualityPoorModerate to Good
Natural DisastersHurricanes, FloodsEarthquakes, Wildfires
Days of Sunshine per Year☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. UV Index🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Avg. Annual Humidity💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦

While both cities boast more sunshine days than the U.S. average, you'll find that San Francisco's summer temperatures are notably milder due to its coastal location. In contrast, Houston's higher humidity and summer heat can make it feel substantially hotter. San Francisco's moderate to good air quality is a significant benefit over Houston's poor air quality rating, likely due to the industrial activity in the Houston area. However, each city has its own set of natural disaster risks - hurricanes and floods in Houston and earthquakes and wildfires in San Francisco. Considering these weather and environmental differences is crucial for a smooth transition.

Ready to start your move?

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

When considering a move, understanding the financial landscape between Houston and San Francisco is crucial. This comparison sheds light on what you might expect in terms of income, living expenses, and taxation, helping you make an informed decision about your relocation.

ComparisonHoustonSan Francisco
Avg. Household Income$55,499$121,826
Cost of Living Index92.2164
State Income Tax0%Up to 13.3%
Avg. Property Tax2.09%0.69%
Avg. Sales Tax8.25%8.5%
Top 3 IndustriesEnergy, Manufacturing, AeronauticsTechnology, Financial Services, Tourism
AffluenceModerateHigh
PovertyNoticeableModerate
HomelessnessSignificantSevere

Though San Francisco boasts a significantly higher average household income, the cost of living index reveals that this income is necessary to manage expenses in one of the most expensive cities in the U.S. While Texas offers a 0% state income tax, potentially making Houston an attractive place for your wallet, San Francisco's allure comes with a high price, reflected in its steep living costs and state income tax rates. Additionally, the contrast in primary industries highlights the diverse economic opportunities that could align with your professional skills and preferences. Understanding these nuances is pivotal in preparing for the financial impact of your move.

Houston vs. San Francisco Political & Religious Comparison

This brief overview aims to offer a quick, at-a-glance snapshot regarding the comparison of the politics between Houston & San Francisco to help you understand the general political and religious landscape of your current and future home.

HoustonSan Francisco
Political Make-upDiverse, leans DemocraticStrongly Democratic
Local PoliticsMix of progressive & conservative policiesProgressive policies
ReligionReligiously diverseLess religious, diverse beliefs

Moving from Houston to San Francisco, you'll find both cities share a Democratic tilt, though San Francisco is known for its particularly strong liberal stance and progressive policies, especially in comparison to Houston's blend of political views. While Houston boasts a religiously diverse community with a significant number of religious establishments across various faiths, San Francisco tends to lean towards more secular views, though it certainly does not lack in religious diversity. Understanding these dynamics can be crucial for settling into your new environment seamlessly.

Houston vs. San Francisco Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

Moving from Houston, TX to San Francisco, CA brings a significant change, especially in your daily commute. This guide highlights the differences in traffic and transportation options between Houston & San Francisco to help you better understand what to expect from your daily travel to work or around the city.

ComparisonHoustonSan Francisco
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)3034
Traffic Congestion 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦
Availability of Public Transit 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇
Can you get by without car?NoYes

In San Francisco, the reliance on public transit is significantly higher than in Houston, attributed to its robust network, including buses, trolleys, and the famous cable cars. The City by the Bay scores a 9 on the availability of public transit, contrasting with Houston's score of 5. This difference emphasizes the feasibility of living in San Francisco without a personal vehicle, a lifestyle less practical in sprawling Houston. Although the average commute time is slightly longer in San Francisco, the city's compact nature and comprehensive public transit options make navigation without a car entirely plausible.

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