Best Norfolk to Oakland Movers and Practical Moving Guide

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Norfolk to Oakland Movers

Embarking on a move from city to city isn't just a change of address; it’s an exciting adventure that opens up a world of new possibilities. Leaving behind the historical charm and naval grandeur of Norfolk, VA, for Oakland, CA, known as the Bright Side of the Bay, offers an invigorating blend of urban living, diverse cultures, and stunning landscapes. To ensure this transition is as smooth as possible, it's crucial to trust your move to professional movers who are not only reliable but have been rated as the best by an unbiased algorithm, like those we recommend at Great Guys Moving.

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Best Norfolk to Oakland Moving Companies

Company NameRating QuestionBBB RatingLicenseContact
OCD Moving Services LLC9.66A+Authorized For HHGContact
Marathon Moving Services9.27NRAuthorized For HHGContact
Prime Movers USA9.07NRAuthorized For Property, HHGContact
Fairprice Movers8.87NRAuthorized For HHGContact
A Friendly & Affordable Mover8.23A+Authorized For Property, HHGContact
Phone (800) 787-5428
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Oakland to Norfolk guide.

5 Best Norfolk to Oakland 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
Marathon Moving Services Logo
Exceptional
claimed company icon
9.27/10
based on 1,058+ data points

About Marathon Moving Services

Are you looking for an independently-owned moving company that provides affordable and reliable moving services in Virginia Beach? Marathon ...Read More >>

Services

  • Residential Moves
  • Commercial Moves
  • Packing & Delivery

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3572153 / 1552140

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans3
Registered Drivers8
Total Annual Miles Moved20,000 (2023)
View Full Review
2
Prime Movers USA Logo
Exceptional9.07/10
based on 628+ data points

About Prime Movers USA

Based in Virginia Beach, VA, Prime Movers offers premium moving services at unmatched prices. Founded in 2015, it takes pride in its highly-...Read More >>

Services

  • Local moves (within 50 miles)
  • Long distance moves (over 50 miles)
  • Packing/unpacking services

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2995403 / 21183

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans2
Registered Drivers2
Total Annual Miles Moved9,060 (2023)
View Full Review
3
Fairprice Movers Logo
Superb8.87/10
based on 325+ data points

About Fairprice Movers

Established in 2012, Fairprice Movers is a moving company headquartered in San Jose, California. The company offers a highly personalized mo...Read More >>

Services

  • Local Moving
  • Long Distance Moving
  • Commercial and Office Moving

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 12/18/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2192738 / 768242

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans5
Registered Drivers3
Total Annual Miles Moved89,000 (2022)
View Full Review
4
A Friendly & Affordable Mover Logo
Very Good
claimed company icon
8.23/10
based on 1,243+ data points

About A Friendly & Affordable Mover

A Friendly and Affordable Mover is a locally-owned moving company in Virginia Beach, VA. Founded in 1989, this company is one of the most ex...Read More >>

Services

  • Local and long-distance professional moving services
  • Free in-home estimates
  • Loading and unloading services for rental trucks, storage areas, and PODS

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3239170 / 1036449

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans2
Registered Drivers4
Total Annual Miles Moved60,000 (2022)
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.

Norfolk vs. Oakland Neighborhood Comparison

Relocating can be a leap into the unknown, especially when it comes to finding a new neighborhood that feels like home. To ease this transition, we've created a comparison of the local neighborhoods between Norfolk, VA & Oakland, CA . This guide aims to help you quickly familiarize yourself with your new city by drawing parallels with neighborhoods you already know and love.

NorfolkOaklandHow They're Similar
GhentRockridgeVibrant community life
LarchmontMontclairFamily-friendly and wooded
Freemason DistrictPiedmont AvenueRich history and charm
Ocean ViewAlamedaBeach town feel
ElmwoodTemescalTrendy eateries and shops
LakewoodGrand LakeLakeside living and dining
RiverfrontJack London DistrictWaterfront ambiance
Colonial PlaceAdams PointSerene residential area
East BeachRockridgeInviting local atmosphere
ChelseaOld OaklandVibrant historic area

If you've cherished the blend of cultural vibrancy and community-oriented lifestyle in Ghent, you'll feel right at home in Rockridge, known for its bustling streets lined with local cafes, bookshops, and a friendly community vibe. For those who appreciate the serene family atmosphere of Larchmont, Montclair will impress with its lush landscapes and a tight-knit community, hosting outdoor activities perfect for family outings. If you're leaving behind the historic charm of the Freemason District, you'll find a similar spirit on Piedmont Avenue, where historic buildings house quaint boutiques and gourmet eateries. Fans of the casual beach lifestyle in Ocean View might find their match in Alameda, with its laid-back vibe, sandy beaches, and classic California dining spots like Scolari's Good Eats on Park Street.

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Pros and Cons of Moving from Norfolk to Oakland

Moving from one city to another is a complex decision, filled with various factors to consider. This comparison aims to present an honest reflection of the good and bad attributes of relocating from Norfolk, VA, to Oakland, CA , helping you weigh your options more clearly.

CONs
PROs
Norfolk, VA iconNorfolk, VA
  • Higher humidity
  • Lower diversity
  • Less cultural venues
  • Smaller job market
Oakland, CA iconOakland, CA
  • Milder climate
  • Higher diversity
  • More cultural venues
  • Larger job market
Oakland, CA iconOakland, CA
  • Less beach access
  • Higher living costs
  • Busier environment
  • More urban
Norfolk, VA iconNorfolk, VA
  • Beach access
  • Lower living costs
  • Quieter living
  • Community feel

Choosing between Norfolk and Oakland involves considering both lifestyle and opportunities. In Norfolk, you enjoy beach access at places like Ocean View Beach, presenting a serene lifestyle not readily found in Oakland. However, Oakland's vibrant cultural scene, with venues such as the Fox Theater and Oakland Museum of California, offers a dynamic and diverse urban experience. Moreover, the job market in Oakland, especially in tech and healthcare, is larger and more varied, providing a broader range of career opportunities. Though moving to Oakland might mean adjusting to a busier environment and managing higher living costs, neighborhoods like Rockridge or Montclair offer community feels with their array of local parks, restaurants, and shops, merging the best of both worlds.

Norfolk vs. Oakland Food Guide

This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Norfolk, VA, and Oakland, CA, highlighting how food reflects the unique culture and lifestyle of each area. Through this comparison, you'll gain insights into the culinary scene of your new city.

NorfolkOakland
Most iconic local food itemChesapeake Bay CrabSourdough Bread
Most popular meat dishVirginia HamKorean BBQ
Most popular street food itemOyster Po'BoyTaco Trucks Tacos
Most popular vegan foodSeitan BBQ RibsJackfruit Tacos
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
  • Doumar's
  • Todd Jurich's Bistro
  • Granby Street Pizza
  • Shandong
  • Brown Sugar Kitchen
  • Chop Bar
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
Abundance of Food Trucks🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
Foodie Scene🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

When moving from Norfolk to Oakland, you'll find that Oakland's culinary scene is very diverse, with an emphasis on international and vegan cuisine. The city's fitness and health conscientiousness is reflected in its restaurants and street food options, like the popular Jackfruit Tacos found in neighborhoods such as Temescal and Jack London Square. Oakland's food trucks offer a variety of culinary delights, showcasing the city's love for food and community. For an authentic taste of Oakland, head to Shandong for some of the best hand-pulled noodles or Brown Sugar Kitchen for a twist on traditional soul food. Whether you're exploring the vibrant street food scene or dining in iconic restaurants, Oakland's culinary landscape is sure to impress.

Norfolk vs. Oakland Restaurant Comparison

Finding comfort in a new city often starts with exploring its culinary scene. This comparison is designed to make you feel at home by matching your favorite Norfolk restaurants to their Oakland equivalents , ensuring a seamless transition between these unique urban landscapes. Let these parallels introduce you to comparable dining experiences , guided by your existing palate preferences.

NorfolkOaklandWhat You'll Love
ToastGrand Lake KitchenBoth offer a cozy, vibrant atmosphere with innovative takes on classic American brunch and dinner menus.
Handsome BiscuitBrenda'sKnown for Southern-inspired breakfast and brunch spots, serving delectable biscuits and comfort food.
No Frill Bar and GrillHomeroomA laid-back vibe with a focus on comfort food classics, making it a perfect spot for casual dining.
A W Shucks Raw Bar & GrillRockin' CrawfishBoth specialize in seafood, offering a casual dining experience with a focus on fresh, flavorful dishes.
LuceBelotti Ristorante e BottegaBoth provide an upscale dining experience with a focus on exquisite Italian cuisine and fine wines.
Grilled Cheese BistroThe MeltFocused on comfort food with a variety of grilled cheese options and other American classics.
Cogan's PizzaNick's PizzaBoth are neighborhood favorites delivering quality, hand-crafted pizzas with a focus on local ingredients.
Freemason Abbey RestaurantWood TavernOffers a warm, welcoming atmosphere with a focus on American cuisine, perfect for a special dinner or casual meal alike.
Doumar'sFentons CreameryBoth establishments are iconic, offering homemade ice cream and diner-style meals, cherished by locals and visitors.
Chartreuse BistroMillenniumFocusing on farm-to-table dining with a commitment to fresh, sustainable, and inventive cuisine.

For those who appreciate the cozy and familiar vibe of Toast in Norfolk, Grand Lake Kitchen in Oakland awaits with open arms, promising equally heartwarming and inventive meals, perfect for any brunch or dinner occasion. Meanwhile, seafood lovers transitioning from A W Shucks Raw Bar & Grill will find solace in Rockin' Crawfish's laid-back atmosphere, where the seafood is just as fresh and the flavors just as bold. And for an experience that elevates comfort food to an art form, The Melt in Oakland offers a variety of grilled cheese options that mirror the beloved Grilled Cheese Bistro in Norfolk, ensuring that comfort food cravings are satisfied with a touch of gourmet flair.

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Norfolk vs. Oakland Real Estate & Living Facts

Real estate significantly influences your relocation journey. Understanding how Norfolk, VA and Oakland, CA compare in terms of housing is crucial for making an informed decision. This comparison aims to provide insights into the housing landscape of these two diverse cities.

ComparisonNorfolkOakland
Typical Architecture StyleHistoric, ColonialVictorian, Bungalow
Walkability 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listingWaterfront views, spacious yardsEco-friendly features, proximity to public transit

The stark difference in median home prices and monthly rent highlights the more affordable nature of Norfolk compared to Oakland. However, Oakland's higher walkability and urban lifestyle scores align with its dense, urban setting, promoting a lifestyle that significantly leverages public transit and eco-friendly living. In contrast, Norfolk's real estate often boasts of waterfront views and spacious yards, catering to those who prefer a blend of urban and scenic living. Both cities present unique architectural styles; Norfolk's historic and colonial buildings contrast with Oakland's Victorian and bungalow homes, reflecting the cities' diverse cultural and historical backgrounds.

Norfolk vs. Oakland Weather Considerations

When planning a move from Norfolk, VA to Oakland, CA, understanding how the weather compares is crucial. These charts aim to provide a clear comparison between weather patterns in Norfolk and Oakland, helping you adjust to your new environment more easily.

Summer icon
88°F / 70°F

Norfolk, VA

73°F / 57°F

Oakland, CA

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
48°F / 32°F

Norfolk, VA

58°F / 44°F

Oakland, CA

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
47

Norfolk, VA

23

Oakland, CA

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
5

Norfolk, VA

0

Oakland, CA

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

ComparisonNorfolkOakland
Air QualityGoodVariable
Natural DisastersHurricanes, FloodsEarthquakes, Wildfires
Days of Sunshine per Year☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. UV Index🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Avg. Annual Humidity💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦

Transitioning from Norfolk's humid subtropical climate to Oakland's Mediterranean climate will be a noticeable change. Oakland's summers are milder and less humid, perfect for those who prefer cooler temperatures without the extreme cold of winter. Enjoy more sunny days in Oakland, alongside significantly less annual rainfall, which contributes to its frequent drought conditions. However, be mindful of Oakland's variable air quality and the risk of wildfires, stark contrasts to Norfolk's hurricane and flood concerns. Adjusting to these differences will be an essential part of making Oakland feel like home.

Ready to start your move?

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

When you're considering a move from one city to another, it's vital to examine how the cost of living and financial landscape will compare. Making an informed decision requires understanding the differences between your current and future home. This comparison between Norfolk, VA and Oakland, CA aims to shed light on various economic indicators significant to your relocation.

ComparisonNorfolkOakland
Avg. Household Income$58,591$82,236
Cost of Living Index96.6139.1
State Income Tax5.7513.3
Avg. Property Tax0.800.79
Avg. Sales Tax69.25
Top 3 IndustriesDefense, Shipping, HealthcareTechnology, Healthcare, Education
AffluenceModerateHigh
PovertyModerateLower
HomelessnessConcerningSignificant

Moving from Norfolk to Oakland presents a significant shift in economic circumstances. Notably, the average household income in Oakland is substantially higher, mirroring the city's higher cost of living and affluence level. However, this uptick in household income is coupled with California's high state income tax rate and a higher average sales tax, affecting your disposable income. While both cities boast robust economies, they are powered by distinctly different leading industries, with technology taking center stage in Oakland in contrast to Norfolk's defense and shipping sectors. Understanding these economic nuances is crucial for anyone transitioning between these cities.

Norfolk vs. Oakland Political & Religious Comparison

This quick comparison offers a glimpse into the comparison of the politics between Norfolk & Oakland , providing insights into the general political leanings and religious affiliations of their populations. Whether you're curious about the dominant political parties, local governance, or the prevalent religious communities, this overview will give you a foundational understanding of what to expect when relocating.

NorfolkOakland
Political Make-upLean DemocraticStrongly Democratic
Local PoliticsModerate with military influenceProgressive and activist-driven
ReligionChristianity predominant, diverse faiths presentVaried, with strong interfaith communities

When moving from Norfolk to Oakland, you'll find that both cities lean Democratic, but Oakland has a reputation for being more strongly progressive and activist-driven, mirroring California's overall political climate. In Norfolk, the military's presence influences local politics and community matters, creating a unique moderating effect. Religious life in both cities is vibrant and diverse, with Norfolk hosting a significant Christian population alongside other faiths. Oakland, known for its inclusive and socially progressive stance, boasts strong interfaith communities, reflecting its diverse population. Your move to Oakland will introduce you to a politically active environment with a wide array of religious and community engagement opportunities.

Norfolk vs. Oakland Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

Moving between cities involves not just a change of scenery but also adapting to a new daily commute. In this guide, we provide a comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Norfolk & Oakland to help you better understand what the daily commute and traffic is like in these diverse environments.

ComparisonNorfolkOakland
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)2429
Traffic Congestion 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦
Availability of Public Transit 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇
Can you get by without car?ChallengingEasier

When comparing the average commute times between Norfolk and Oakland, you'll notice that the latter has a slightly longer duration which aligns with its higher traffic congestion score. Oakland's public transportation system is more robust, receiving a higher score, which is largely due to the Bay Area's comprehensive BART system, making it significantly easier to commute without a car compared to Norfolk. In Norfolk, while there is some public transport available, such as the Hampton Roads Transit, it doesn’t cover the city as extensively, making car ownership more of a necessity for convenient daily transportation.

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