Best Tacoma to San Jose Movers and Practical Moving Guide

Get a Quote Now!

Tacoma to San Jose Movers

Moving from the lush landscapes of Tacoma, WA to the tech-infused vibrancy of San Jose, CA, is a transition full of new adventures and life changes. Leaving behind the City of Destiny’s serene bays for Silicon Valley’s bustling streets highlights a bold step towards a new chapter in your life. To ensure this significant move is as smooth and stress-free as possible, it's crucial to trust in professional movers who are recognized for their reliability and excellence, just as we at Great Guys Moving use our unbiased ranking algorithm to connect you with the best in the business.

Washington iconArrow iconCalifornia icon

Best Tacoma to San Jose Moving Companies

Company NameRating QuestionBBB RatingLicenseContact
D&L Movers9.34A+ActiveContact
John Volken Academy Movers9.33NRAuthorized For HHGContact
Careful Movers9.31A+Authorized For HHGContact
First Due Movers9.25A+Authorized For Property, HHGContact
People Movers9.16NRAuthorized For PropertyContact
Phone (800) 787-5428
U-turn icon

Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from San Jose to Tacoma guide.

5 Best Tacoma to San Jose Moving Companies

These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)

D&L Movers Logo
Exceptional9.34/10
based on 1,789+ data points

About D&L Movers

Founded by Drew Sanchez and Leo Cervantes, D&L Movers is a local moving company that offers full-service relocations for homes and busin...Read More >>

Services

  • Cheap moving
  • Local moving
  • Long-distance moving

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 7/23/2023)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2706648 / -

Active

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans3
Registered Drivers5
Total Annual Miles Moved20,000 (2017)
View Full Review
1
John Volken Academy Movers Logo
Exceptional9.33/10
based on 1,571+ data points

About John Volken Academy Movers

John Volken Academy Movers is a not-for-profit moving company that helps people move across Western and Eastern Washington. This local busin...Read More >>

Services

  • Local Moving
  • Commercial Moving
  • Residential Moving

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2261169 / 1666977

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans6
Registered Drivers8
Total Annual Miles Moved200 (2015)
View Full Review
2
Careful Movers Logo
Exceptional9.31/10
based on 4,655+ data points

About Careful Movers

With almost two decades of expertise and experience in the moving industry, Menlo Park-based Careful Movers promises stress-free, on-time, a...Read More >>

Services

  • Local Moving
  • Long Distance Moving
  • Office Moving

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

1464935 / 553377

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans14
Registered Drivers14
Total Annual Miles Moved90,000 (2022)
View Full Review
3
First Due Movers Logo
Exceptional9.25/10
based on 1,542+ data points

About First Due Movers

First Due Movers is based in Preston, Washington, but offers nationwide moving services. The company is actually owned by local Washington f...Read More >>

Services

  • Residential Moves
  • Commercial Moves
  • Long-Distance Moves

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

1990914 / 865709

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans12
Registered Drivers20
Total Annual Miles Moved205,000 (2022)
View Full Review
4
People Movers Logo
Exceptional9.16/10
based on 3,624+ data points

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 >>

Services

  • Local moving
  • Long-distance moving
  • Cross-country moving

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2895681 / 1597195

Authorized For Property

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans2
Registered Drivers2
Total Annual Miles Moved25,000 (2023)
View Full Review
5
Rankings You Can Trust background image
Trust Rankings icon

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.

Tacoma vs. San Jose Neighborhood Comparison

Moving can feel like a leap into the unknown, especially when it involves navigating the neighborhoods of a new city. To ease this transition, this guide offers a comparison of the local neighborhoods between Tacoma, WA & San Jose, CA . By identifying the Tacoma neighborhoods you love, we can match you with similar areas in San Jose, fostering a sense of familiarity and helping you find your new favorite spots.

TacomaSan JoseHow They're Similar
Proctor DistrictWillow GlenCharming, community-focused
Stadium DistrictRose GardenHistoric homes, lush landscapes
North EndAlmaden ValleyFamily-friendly, scenic views
Old TownLos GatosHistoric, vibrant downtown
HilltopJapantownCulturally rich, diverse community
South TacomaBlossom ValleyAffordable, community parks
EastsideEvergreenDiverse, suburban feel
Central TacomaCambrian ParkFamily-friendly, quiet neighborhoods
West EndCupertinoUpscale, excellent schools
Lincoln DistrictBerryessaDiverse, shopping & dining

In comparing neighborhoods, if you're captivated by the Proctor District's quaint charm and tight-knit community, Willow Glen in San Jose echoes this sentiment with its whimsical downtown area, featuring cozy cafes like Willow Glen Coffee Roasting Company and unique boutiques. For those attracted to the historic elegance and green spaces of the Stadium District, San Jose's Rose Garden area offers not only stunning homes but also the Municipal Rose Garden, a perfect place for leisurely strolls or picnics. Meanwhile, the artistic and diverse atmosphere of Tacoma's Hilltop neighborhood finds a companion in San Jose's Japantown, where cultural festivities and the Japanese American Museum of San Jose provide a deep dive into the community's rich heritage. These comparisons illuminate the vibrant life that awaits in neighborhoods across San Jose, ensuring you feel right at home in your new city.

Ready to start your move?

Pros and Cons of Moving from Tacoma to San Jose

Moving from Tacoma, WA to San Jose, CA requires a balanced view to truly appreciate the transition. This comparison aims to reflect honestly on the pros and cons associated with relocating from the lush landscapes of Tacoma to the tech-savvy city of San Jose. Acknowledging both the benefits and drawbacks equips you with a comprehensive perspective for a smoother transition.

CONs
PROs
Tacoma, WA iconTacoma, WA
  • Lower Tech Jobs
  • More Rain
  • Smaller City
San Jose, CA iconSan Jose, CA
  • High Tech Hub
  • Less Rain
  • Bigger Economy
San Jose, CA iconSan Jose, CA
  • Less Greenery
  • Higher Living Costs
  • Busier Life
Tacoma, WA iconTacoma, WA
  • Lush Landscapes
  • Affordable Housing
  • Community Feel

Moving to San Jose from Tacoma introduces you to the heart of Silicon Valley, home to technology giants like Apple and Google, offering abundant tech job opportunities. While you might miss Tacoma's rain-drenched landscapes, San Jose offers its own natural beauty, with spots like Alum Rock Park providing outdoor escapades amidst less rainy days. However, the shift comes with a spike in living costs, notably housing. Yet, neighborhoods like Downtown San Jose offer vibrant urban living with a slew of restaurants, museums, and cultural events, making the bustling city life something to look forward to.

Tacoma vs. San Jose Food Guide

This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Tacoma, WA & San Jose, CA, highlighting the importance of food as a key element of local culture and lifestyle. By examining what each city has to offer in terms of dining, you can get a taste of what life will be like in your new home.

TacomaSan Jose
Most iconic local food itemDungeness CrabPho
Most popular meat dishPacific Northwest SalmonCarne Asada
Most popular street food itemFish TacosTacos
Most popular vegan foodQuinoa SaladVietnamese Spring Rolls
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
  • Harbor Lights
  • MSM Deli
  • En Rincón
  • Falafel's Drive-In
  • Original Joe's San Jose
  • Santana Row Restaurants
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
Abundance of Food Trucks🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
Foodie Scene🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

When settling into your new home in San Jose, you'll quickly discover the city's rich tapestry of cuisines that reflect its diverse population. For a truly local experience, navigate through the bustling streets of the Downtown area or take an aromatic tour through Little Saigon, where you can indulge in the iconic Pho or the fresh Vietnamese Spring Rolls catering to vegan preferences. San Jose's Santana Row is not just a shopping destination but a culinary adventure with a variety of dining options from high-end restaurants to casual eateries and food trucks, offering something for every palate. The city's vibrant food scene is a testament to its health-conscious community, with numerous options that support a fit and active lifestyle.

Tacoma vs. San Jose Restaurant Comparison

Finding comfort in the cuisine of a new city can truly make it feel like home. This guide has been crafted to help those moving from Tacoma, WA, to San Jose, CA, discover their next favorite eateries by comparing top restaurants in each city. Using Tacoma restaurants as a guide to find similar culinary treasures in San Jose brings a piece of home to your new locale.

TacomaSan JoseWhat You'll Love
Indochine Asian Dining LoungeSP2 Communal Bar + RestaurantSimilar upscale ambiance and creative Asian fusion dishes
The TableOrchard City KitchenBoth offer a farm-to-table dining experience with a focus on seasonal ingredients
MSCOBoiling CrabAlthough the cuisines differ, both are known for their seafood and communal dining style
Pacific GrillLB Steak Santana RowComparable in offering high-end dining experiences with a focus on prime meats and seafood
Dirty Oscar's AnnexSan Pedro Square MarketSimilar vibe in terms of casual, vibrant dining with diverse food options
El BorrachoLa Victoria TaqueriaBoth are loved for their authentic Mexican flavors and casual dining atmosphere
Marrow KitchenAdegaEmphasizes gourmet dining with a focus on meticulously crafted dishes and fine-dining atmosphere
Doyle’s Public HouseO'Flaherty's Irish PubComparable cozy, casual pub environment perfect for a hangout with friends
Ezell's Famous ChickenBonchonSimilar for their focus on providing crispy, flavorful chicken dishes in a casual setting
Equinox Restaurant and BarLudwig’s German TableBoth offer a unique European dining experience with a focus on traditional dishes

For those who savor the farm-to-table concept, Orchard City Kitchen in San Jose mirrors The Table in Tacoma, offering a robust menu that changes with the seasons, catering to food enthusiasts who appreciate the freshness of locally-sourced ingredients. Similarly, seafood lovers transitioning from Tacoma will find a comparable vibrancy and communal dining experience at San Jose's Boiling Crab, albeit with a different culinary twist. On the more casual side, while Dirty Oscar's Annex provides a unique vibe with its eclectic menu, San Pedro Square Market in San Jose offers a similar bustling atmosphere with an array of food options, presenting an ideal spot for casual meetups or to explore diverse culinary offerings. These establishments not only bring back a taste of Tacoma but also invite you to embrace the rich dining culture of San Jose.

CTA Banner background image

Ready to start your move?

Tacoma vs. San Jose Real Estate & Living Facts

Understanding the real estate dynamics is crucial when considering a move. It's important to know how the two cities, Tacoma, WA and San Jose, CA, compare in terms of housing. This includes factors such as cost, architecture, and livability aspects to ensure you make the best decision for your needs.

ComparisonTacomaSan Jose
Typical Architecture StyleCraftsmanModern and Spanish
Walkability 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listingWaterfront views, Proximity to parksProximity to tech hubs, Eco-friendly features

In comparing the real estate aspects of Tacoma, WA, and San Jose, CA, it's clear that each city offers a unique lifestyle and housing options that cater to different preferences and budgets. San Jose's higher median home price and rent reflect its status as a tech hub in Silicon Valley, offering modern and Spanish architecture with eco-friendly features prominently mentioned in listings. On the other hand, Tacoma provides more affordable living with craftsman-style homes, highlighting waterfront views and proximity to parks. Both cities offer a decent level of walkability and bikeability, though San Jose scores higher in these categories, indicating a more urban lifestyle that might appeal to those who prioritize convenience and accessibility.

Pet-friendly neighborhoods background image

Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in San Jose, CA

1. Willow Glen: Known for its quaint, tree-lined streets, you'll find plenty of pet-friendly restaurants and a welcoming atmosphere at Willow Glen's downtown area, perfect for leisurely walks with your furry friends.

2. Cambrian Park: Boasting a serene suburban vibe, Cambrian Park is home to several parks, including the dog-friendly Butcher Dog Park, where your pets can play off-leash in a safe, enclosed environment.

3. Downtown San Jose: If you're looking for a more urban experience, Downtown San Jose offers many pet-friendly living spaces and amenities, alongside dog-friendly dining options like Original Joe’s, making it an ideal place for pet owners who love city living.

Tacoma vs. San Jose Weather Considerations

Moving between cities means adapting to new weather patterns. Understanding how the weather compares between Tacoma, WA, and San Jose, CA is crucial for a smooth transition. This comparison helps you prepare for changes in temperature, sunshine, and potential weather-related challenges in your new home.

Summer icon
76 / 53

Tacoma, WA

82 / 57

San Jose, CA

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
47 / 37

Tacoma, WA

60 / 42

San Jose, CA

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
39.5

Tacoma, WA

15.5

San Jose, CA

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
6.8

Tacoma, WA

0

San Jose, CA

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

ComparisonTacomaSan Jose
Air QualityModerateGood
Natural DisastersRainstorms, FloodingEarthquakes, Wildfires
Days of Sunshine per Year☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. UV Index🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Avg. Annual Humidity💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦

Moving from Tacoma to San Jose, you'll experience a significant increase in sunshine days and a milder winter climate. San Jose enjoys more than 100 additional days of sunshine per year compared to Tacoma, lending itself to more outdoor activities year-round. However, this comes with the need to be more vigilant about sun protection due to the higher average UV index. The dramatically lower annual rainfall in San Jose compared to Tacoma means a drier climate, but also leads to considerations like drought conditions and the associated risk of wildfires. Adapting to these weather changes will help you make the most of your new environment in San Jose.

Ready to start your move?

Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Tacoma to San Jose

When deciding to relocate from Tacoma, WA to San Jose, CA, it's crucial to compare the financial aspects and cost of living between these two cities to gauge how your economic situation might change. Understanding these differences ensures you're financially prepared for your move.

ComparisonTacomaSan Jose
Avg. Household Income$77,141$126,377
Cost of Living Index109.5156.1
State Income Tax00 - 13.3*
Avg. Property Tax1.10.79
Avg. Sales Tax10.29.25
Top 3 IndustriesHealthcare, Retail, ManufacturingTechnology, Manufacturing, Retail
AffluenceModerateHigh
PovertyObservableLower
HomelessnessSignificantSignificant

Moving from Tacoma to San Jose means adapting to a considerably higher cost of living. Despite San Jose's hefty average household income—nearly double Tacoma's—its cost of living index is also significantly higher. Taxation plays a unique role in each city; while Washington State levies no income tax, California's rates can climb steeply, affecting your take-home pay in San Jose. However, San Jose’s lower property and sales taxes might slightly ease the financial burden. The thriving tech industry in San Jose creates a high affluence level, yet, like Tacoma, it still grapples with significant homelessness issues, reflecting the complex socio-economic landscape awaiting you.

Tacoma vs. San Jose Political & Religious Comparison

In preparing for a move from Tacoma, WA, to San Jose, CA, it's helpful to understand the communities you'll be joining. This comparison of the politics between Tacoma & San Jose provides a quick snapshot of the political and religious makeup of these cities, aiding in setting expectations for your new home.

TacomaSan Jose
Political Make-upLiberalVery Liberal
Local PoliticsProgressively led city councilDiverse and progressive city leadership
ReligionMixed, with prominent Christian and non-religious communitiesDiverse, large non-religious segment, significant Asian religions presence

Tacoma and San Jose both exhibit liberal leanings, with San Jose showcasing an even more pronounced liberal stance. The political climate in both cities is shaped by a progressively led governance structure, though San Jose's diversity is reflected strongly in its city leadership, offering a wide range of perspectives and policies. Religion in Tacoma presents a mixture of Christianity and non-religious beliefs, a common trend in Pacific Northwest cities. San Jose, by comparison, hosts a greater variety of religious beliefs, including a significant presence of Asian religions, mirroring its diverse population. This rich tapestry of political and religious backgrounds will be a critical part of your adaptation process, influencing local culture and community interaction.

Tacoma vs. San Jose Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

Moving from Tacoma, WA, to San Jose, CA, offers a unique opportunity to compare the traffic and transportation options between these two cities. This analysis aims to better understand what the daily commute and traffic is like, helping you make informed decisions as you transition to your new home.

ComparisonTacomaSan Jose
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)2731
Traffic Congestion 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦
Availability of Public Transit 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇
Can you get by without car?ChallengingPossible, but limited

When comparing Tacoma and San Jose, it's evident that both cities present unique challenges and opportunities for commuters. In Tacoma, while the average commute time is slightly shorter, the public transportation options are not as robust as in San Jose, making it more challenging to get by without a car. San Jose, despite having higher traffic congestion, offers better public transit availability, making it somewhat easier to live without a vehicle, though still with limitations. This comparison highlights the importance of considering your transportation needs and lifestyle preferences when moving to a new city.

CTA Banner background image
Connect with one of our Certified Moving Partners.
Best Tacoma to San Jose Movers Featured Image