Moving from Seattle to San Francisco?

5 Best Movers and Your Ultimate Moving Guide

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Seattle to San Francisco Movers

Moving from the Emerald City to the Golden Gate City is not just a change of scenery; it’s an exhilarating leap into new experiences and opportunities. Leaving behind Seattle's iconic coffee culture and embracing San Francisco's famed tech hubs and diverse cuisine can be a bittersweet adventure. Recognizing this, we stress the utmost importance of choosing trusted and reliable professional movers to ensure your journey from the land of drizzle to the city of fog is as seamless and worry-free as possible.

Washington iconArrow iconCalifornia icon
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from San Francisco to Seattle guide.

5 Best Seattle to San Francisco 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 >>

top 10 san bruno 2024 kora moving image
top 10 ranked movers in san bruno 2023 kora moving image
#3
People Movers Logo
Exceptional

based on 3,624+ data points

Location DotBothell, WA
GearLocal moving, Long-distance moving, Cross-country moving See More
Circle CheckAuthorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/10/2024)

Circle DotUSDOT: 2895681 Verify

About People Movers

People Movers is a fully licensed moving company in Bothell, WA. It has relocated hundreds of happy customers in Greater Seattle since it op...Read More >>

top 10 tacoma 2024 people movers image
top 10 ranked movers in olympia 2023 people movers image
top 10 ranked movers in bellevue 2022 people movers image
#4
All Service Moving Logo
Superb

based on 5,172+ data points

Location DotSeattle, WA
GearResidential Moving, Commercial Moving, Long Distance Moving See More
Circle CheckAuthorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 11/14/2023)

Circle DotUSDOT: 2083124 Verify

About All Service Moving

All Service Moving is a full-service moving company that performs a wide array of relocation services in Seattle, WA, and surrounding areas....Read More >>

top 10 lacey 2024 all service moving image
top 10 ranked movers in seattle 2023 all service moving image
top 3 ranked movers in seattle 2022 all service moving image
#5
Eco Movers Moving Logo
Superb
claimed company icon

based on 6,725+ data points

Location DotSeattle, WA
GearLocal Moving Services, Long-Distance Moving Services, Packing Services See More
Circle CheckAuthorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/10/2024)

Circle DotUSDOT: 3227005 Verify

About Eco Movers Moving

Founded in 2019, Eco Movers is a relatively new company with a single goal: provide excellent customer service while sustaining relationship...Read More >>

top 10 olympia 2024 eco movers moving image
top ranked movers in seattle 2023 eco movers moving image
top ranked movers in seattle 2022 eco movers moving image

Relocating from Seattle to San Francisco Neighborhood Guide

Relocating can feel like navigating uncharted waters, but understanding how your current city compares to your future home can ease the transition. This guide aims to familiarize you with an unknown city by using your existing one as a baseline. Specifically, we'll explore how Seattle, WA & San Francisco, CA local neighborhoods compare, matching Seattle's top neighborhoods with their San Francisco counterparts based on vibe, culture, and amenities.

SeattleSan Francisco
Capitol HillThe Castro

vibrant, LGBT-friendly

BelltownSOMA

trendy, nightlife-centric

Queen AnnePacific Heights

upscale, stunning views

BallardThe Mission

hip, foodie haven

FremontHaight-Ashbury

quirky, artsy community

GreenwoodNoe Valley

family-friendly, laid-back

West SeattleOuter Sunset

beachy, relaxed lifestyle

South Lake UnionEmbarcadero

tech hub, modern

WallingfordCole Valley

neighborhood feel, accessible

Pioneer SquareNorth Beach

rich history, cobblestone charm

For those drawn to Capitol Hill's pulsing nightlife and engagement with the LGBT community, The Castro in San Francisco offers a similar vibe, with numerous bars, restaurants, and cultural events celebrating diversity. Meanwhile, Ballard's vibrant dining scene and craft breweries have a counterpart in The Mission, known for its eclectic eateries and sunny disposition. If you appreciate Fremont's quirky art installations and indie shops, you'll find Haight-Ashbury's historic streets, peppered with vintage clothing stores and iconic music venues, equally captivating. Queen Anne's elegant homes and sweeping views of Seattle align closely with Pacific Heights, where stately mansions overlook the Bay. Each neighborhood's unique characteristics – from the artsy streets of Haight-Ashbury to the upscale calm of Pacific Heights – contribute to the rich, diverse tapestry that defines urban living in these Pacific Coast cities.

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Pros and Cons of Moving from Seattle to San Francisco

Moving from Seattle, WA to San Francisco, CA is a significant life change that offers both challenges and opportunities. This guide aims to provide an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of this relocation, helping you weigh the cons of Seattle against the pros of San Francisco, and vice versa, for a balanced decision-making process.

CONs
PROs
Seattle, WA iconSeattle, WA
  • Higher Rainfall
  • Less Tech Opportunities
  • Lower Average Salaries
  • Fewer Cultural Venues
  • Fewer Fine Dining Options
San Francisco, CA iconSan Francisco, CA
  • Milder Climate
  • More Tech Jobs
  • Higher Average Salaries
  • More Cultural Venues
  • World-Class Restaurants
San Francisco, CA iconSan Francisco, CA
  • Higher Cost of Living
  • Less Coffee Variety
  • Tighter Housing Market
  • Fewer Green Spaces
  • Smaller Music Scene
Seattle, WA iconSeattle, WA
  • Outdoor Activities
  • Rich Coffee Culture
  • More Affordable Housing
  • Nature and Parks
  • Strong Music Scene

When moving from Seattle to San Francisco, you'll not only exchange the Emerald City's rain clouds for the Golden Gate's fog but also step into a vibrant hub of technology and culture. While Seattle offers a laid-back vibe with its rich coffee culture and abundant outdoor activities, including the iconic Pike Place Market and expansive Discovery Park, San Francisco counters with its dynamic tech scene, higher salaries, and a richer array of cultural venues such as the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art and Michelin-starred restaurants like Benu and Quince. However, this comes at the cost of a significantly higher living expense and a competitive housing market, particularly in popular areas like the Mission District and Nob Hill. Nonetheless, those who value career opportunities in tech and cultural richness might find San Francisco's trade-offs well worth it.

Food Scene Guide When Moving from Seattle to San Francisco

This comparison of the local cuisine between Seattle & San Francisco aims to highlight food's integral role in the local culture and living experience. Through this comparison, you'll gain insights into the unique food scenes of your current and future homes.

SeattleSan Francisco

Most iconic local food item

Salmon
Sourdough Bread

Most popular meat dish

Teriyaki
Cioppino

Most popular street food item

Hot Dogs
Mission Burrito

Most popular vegan food

Acai Bowls
Vegan Ramen

Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city

  • Canlis
  • Matt's in the Market
  • Theo Chocolate
  • Swan Oyster Depot
  • Zuni Café
  • Tartine Bakery

Fitness/Health Conscientiousness

8
9

Abundance of Food Trucks

7
8

Foodie Scene

9
10

Vegan Friendly

8
9

In Seattle, the seafood, especially salmon, stands out as a must-try, reflecting the city's deep connection to its maritime geography. Those moving to San Francisco, however, will find themselves in the birthplace of sourdough bread, with historic bakeries such as Tartine Bakery offering some of the best. San Francisco's Mission District is famed for its Mission Burrito, a local invention and a staple of the city's vibrant street food scene. Not to mention, both cities showcase a high level of health consciousness and a booming vegan scene, ensuring that regardless of dietary preferences, you'll be well catered to. This move between two of the West Coast's culinary capitals promises to be as exciting for your taste buds as it is for your other senses.

Restaurant Guide for Moving from Seattle to San Francisco

When relocating, discovering local dining gems can quickly transform a new city into home. This concise restaurant comparison aims to make your move from Seattle, WA to San Francisco, CA delightful by offering culinary bridges between your current and future dining scenes. Compare and find your new favorite eateries using familiar flavors as your guide.

CanlisQuince

Both offer a luxurious dining experience with an emphasis on local, seasonal ingredients.

Pike Place ChowderHog Island Oyster Co.

Known for their fresh seafood and iconic chowders, providing a coastal culinary experience.

The Pink DoorForeign Cinema

Both blend a unique dining atmosphere with exceptional cuisine, offering patio dining and entertainment.

Ray’s BoathouseWaterbar

Prime waterfront dining spots specializing in local seafood with stunning views.

MamnoonReem’s

Both celebrate Middle Eastern flavors with a modern twist, creating a culturally rich dining experience.

Matt’s in the MarketZuni Café

Farm-to-table eateries renowned for their fresh, local ingredients and rotating seasonal menus.

JuneBabyFarmerbrown

Offering southern-inspired cuisine with a focus on soul food and sustainability.

Taylor Shellfish Oyster BarSwan Oyster Depot

Both are celebrated for their fresh oyster selections and casual yet authentic seafood experiences.

SalumiThe Italian Homemade Company

Delis that specialize in handcrafted Italian cured meats, sandwiches, and pastas.

Skillet DinerDottie’s True Blue Café

Diner-style favorites with a unique twist, known for their hearty breakfasts and brunches.

Although leaving behind favorite local spots can be one of the hardest parts of moving cities, the transition from Seattle to San Francisco doesn't mean you have to give up culinary comforts. Restaurants like Quince in San Francisco echo the refined dining experience of Canlis in Seattle, ensuring that aficionados of fine dining have a go-to spot. For those who relish the waterfront dining and fresh seafood that Ray’s Boathouse offers, Waterbar will likely become your new favorite, boasting spectacular views of the Bay Bridge alongside an impressive oyster and seafood selection. Transitioning your dining preferences can be a seamless experience when you know where to find San Francisco's equivalents of Seattle's culinary gems.

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

Real estate is a pivotal factor in relocation decisions. Understanding the nuances between Seattle, WA and San Francisco, CA in terms of housing can greatly inform your choice. This comparison will shed light on cost, statistics , and architecture , among others, to guide your move effectively.

When diving into the housing aspects of Seattle and San Francisco, the architectural styles stand out starkly with Seattle's love for Craftsman homes against San Francisco's iconic Victorian houses. The charm and history attached to San Francisco's properties can often justify the higher costs associated with living in the city. The urban lifestyle score reflects San Francisco's dense, vibrant urban center that offers an abundance of cultural attractions and amenities, slightly edging out Seattle's more laid-back, nature-integrated city vibe. Prioritizing what aspects of city life mean the most to you can help in making a balanced decision.

Weather Considerations for Moving from Seattle to San Francisco

Moving from one location to another requires adapting to new environments, especially in terms of weather. Comparing Seattle, WA to San Francisco, CA weather helps in understanding and preparing for these changes, ensuring a smoother transition to your new home.

Summer icon
75°F / 55°F

Seattle, WA

70°F / 55°F

San Francisco, CA

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
47°F / 37°F

Seattle, WA

57°F / 46°F

San Francisco, CA

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
37.49

Seattle, WA

23.65

San Francisco, CA

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
4.6

Seattle, WA

0

San Francisco, CA

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

While both cities offer mild climates compared to other regions of the United States, there are significant differences to prepare for. Seattle experiences more rainfall and fewer sunny days annually, which contributes to its lush, green landscapes. San Francisco, on the other hand, boasts more days of sunshine and a drier climate, but with the unique feature of its famous fog that can lower visibility and temperatures, especially during the summer. The lower annual rainfall in San Francisco also means it's more prone to drought conditions and wildfires. Embracing these weather differences will be a key part of acclimatizing to your new coastal city.

Ready to start your move?

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

When considering a move from Seattle, WA to San Francisco, CA, it's crucial to understand how your financial landscape will change. This comparison will shine a light on the differences in money and finance, helping you to anticipate what lies ahead.

When moving from Seattle to San Francisco, you'll encounter various financial adjustments. For one, the average household income is higher in San Francisco, potentially offsetting the city's significantly higher cost of living index. However, you'll be introduced to California's state income tax, with a maximum rate of 13.3%, a stark contrast to Washington's 0% rate. On the brighter side, San Francisco's average property tax rate is lower than Seattle's, despite higher overall housing costs. Considering these factors will help you better prepare for the financial realities of your new home.

Political & Religious Comparison between Seattle, WA and San Francisco, CA

Moving from Seattle, WA, to San Francisco, CA, brings significant changes, including the people you'll live among. This quick comparison provides an at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents between Seattle & San Francisco to help you understand your new community.

SeattleSan Francisco

Political Make-up

Progressive/LiberalProgressive/Liberal

Local Politics

Democratic MajorityDemocratic Majority

Religion

Less Religiously AffiliatedLess Religiously Affiliated

Both Seattle and San Francisco are known for their progressive and liberal political landscapes, with local politics predominantly under Democratic control. Despite this similarity, each city brings its unique flavor to how politics are discussed, engaged with, and the sort of local issues that take precedence. In terms of religion, you'll find both cities have a higher number of residents who identify as less religiously affiliated, reflecting a broader trend towards secularism in urban areas. This might impact the cultural fabric of your new community, including social activities and community involvement.

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

Moving from Seattle, WA to San Francisco, CA offers a unique opportunity to compare traffic and transportation options between these two vibrant cities. This comparison is designed to help you better understand what your daily commute and traffic will be like, easing the transition and planning for your relocation.

SeattleSan Francisco
2834

Avg Commute Time (in minutes)

78

Traffic Congestion (out of 10)

69

Availability of Public Transit (out of 10)

Possible, but challengingEasier due to compact size and public transit

Can you get by without car?

Moving to a new city always brings its challenges, especially when it comes to navigating daily commutes. San Francisco, with its higher traffic congestion score, might initially seem more daunting than Seattle. However, San Francisco's compact nature and superior public transit system make it relatively easier to get around without a car, compared to Seattle. The Bay Area's comprehensive network of buses, trolleys, and the iconic Cable Cars, not to mention the extensive Bay Area Rapid Transit (BART) system, ensures that commuting is more accessible, albeit potentially longer in terms of time. This connectivity is a boon for those wishing to embrace a car-free lifestyle in an urban setting.

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