Best Oakland to San Jose Movers + Moving Guide

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If you're moving from Oakland to San Jose and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 42 mile long distance California move go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 140 Oakland to San Jose moving companies and more than 15,000 movers nationwide to provide up-to-date and data-driven information about: which moving company to hire (our top recommendation is Sweet Lemon Moving Services), how much the move costs (approximately $1,000 - $4,500 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Oakland compared to San Jose. With a move this big, you want big data on your side and Great Guys Moving is your trusted ally to help you sift through the noise to make informed moving decisions.

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Best Oakland to San Jose Moving Companies

RankCompany NameRating QuestionAffordability IndexContact
1Sweet Lemon Moving Services9.779.67Contact
2Quantum Moving9.709.78Contact
3OCD Moving Services LLC9.669.47Contact
4Pure Moving Company9.659.41Contact
5California Loyal Movers9.649.6Contact
Phone (800) 787-5428

Cost to Move from Oakland to San Jose

Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 42 miles from Oakland, CA to San Jose, CA will cost on average $1,817 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Oakland to San Jose move is roughly $4,331. See the chart below for a detailed breakdown by type of move and home size. Pricing will vary based upon the exact locations of pickup and dropoff as well as several other factors. The most important pricing component that is often overlooked is how far away the move date is. The earlier you can reserve movers, the better your pricing and options will be.

Home SizeMoving CostVolume of Packed Items (ft³)$/ft³
Studio$1,226300 ft³4.09
1 Bedroom$1,817450 ft³4.04
2 Bedrooms$2,991750 ft³3.99
3 Bedrooms$4,3311100 ft³3.94
4 Bedrooms$6,2201600 ft³3.89
5+ Bedrooms$6,9081800 ft³3.84
*Please note: These California to California moving prices are rough approximations based upon nationwide data as well as local and statewide data from California & California. The volume listed here represents the estimated cubic footage of your household items when packed and loaded into a moving truck. To determine the exact costs associated with your move, get a quote from a licensed CA to CA mover.
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from San Jose to Oakland guide.

Compare the 5 Best Oakland to San Jose Movers

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

Sweet Lemon Moving Services Logo

Sweet Lemon Moving Services

Exceptional9.77/10
based on 3,807+ data points

403 Elwood Ave

Oakland, CA, 94610

About Sweet Lemon Moving Services

As a full-service moving company, Sweet Lemon Moving Services has been performing moves in Oakland and the wider Bay Area since...

Services

  • Local Moves
  • Interstate Moves
  • Commercial Moves

Interstate Moving License

Circle X Mark
Not Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/9/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3277021 / -

Not Authorized

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans8
Registered Drivers8
Total Annual Miles Moved5,000 (2021)
View Full Review
1
Quantum Moving Logo

Quantum Moving

Exceptional9.70/10
based on 1,514+ data points

535 Main St

Martinez, CA, 94553

About Quantum Moving

Quantum Moving is located in Martinez, California, and has been serving families and businesses in the surrounding areas with local and...

Services

  • Bay Area Local Moving Services
  • Long Distance Moving Services Within California
  • Commercial Office Moves

Interstate Moving License

Circle X Mark
Not Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/10/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3163557 / -

Not Authorized

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans3
Registered Drivers5
Total Annual Miles Moved35,000 (2022)
View Full Review
2
OCD Moving Services LLC Logo

OCD Moving Services LLC

Exceptional9.66/10
based on 3,273+ data points

5914 Cobblestone Ct

El Sobrante, CA, 94803

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

  • Local Moving
  • Long Distance Moving
  • Commercial Moving

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/9/2025)

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
3
Pure Moving Company Logo

Pure Moving Company

Exceptional9.65/10
based on 7,861+ data points

401 Terry A Francois Blvd # 110

San Francisco, CA, 94158

About Pure Moving Company

With four locations in two states, Pure Moving Company has been offering professional and full-service moves in San Francisco since 2000....

Services

  • Residential Moving
  • Commercial Moving
  • Long Distance Moving
View Full Review
4
California Loyal Movers Logo

California Loyal Movers

Exceptional9.64/10
based on 2,681+ data points

999 Commercial St # 206

Palo Alto, CA, 94303

About California Loyal Movers

Located in Palo Alto, California Loyal Movers has a proven track record of helping people and businesses in the Bay Area...

Services

  • Local moves
  • Long-distance moves
  • Loading and unloading services

Interstate Moving License

Circle X Mark
Not Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/9/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2020505 / -

Not Authorized

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans3
Registered Drivers2
Total Annual Miles Moved1 (2018)
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.

Oakland vs. San Jose Neighborhood Comparison

If you're planning a move and seeking familiarity in a new city, look no further. This guide offers a comparison of the local neighborhoods between Oakland, CA & San Jose, CA to help you find your bearings by using known surroundings as a benchmark. By aligning the most popular neighborhoods from Oakland to their counterparts in San Jose, you'll have a smoother transition embracing your new community.

OaklandSan JoseHow They're Similar
RockridgeWillow GlenFamily-friendly, vibrant main street
MontclairAlmaden ValleyScenic, suburban feel
Piedmont AvenueSantana RowUpscale shopping & dining
TemescalCambrian ParkDiverse eateries & community vibe
Grand LakeLos GatosLively, near natural attractions
Jack London SquareDowntown San JoseUrban living, entertainment options
West OaklandJapantownRich history, unique cultural scene
Adams PointRose GardenResidential, historic homes
North OaklandEvergreenFamily-oriented, peaceful
Lake MerrittAlvisoWaterfront activities, community feel

In exploring the vibrant community of Willow Glen, reminiscent of Rockridge's family-friendly atmosphere and bustling main street, you'll find a treasure trove of unique boutiques, and local eateries like The Table, ensuring a smooth transition. For those drawn to the upscale, lively vibes of Piedmont Avenue, Santana Row offers an exceptional array of luxury shopping and fine dining experiences, such as the fashionable Santana Row or the culinary delights at LB Steak. Meanwhile, outdoor enthusiasts relocating from Grand Lake will find Los Gatos an appealing alternative, with its proximity to natural attractions like Vasona Lake County Park, combining the best of a lively community hub with the serene beauty of Northern California's landscape.

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Pros and Cons of Moving from Oakland to San Jose

Moving from one city to another can be a life-changing decision. To help you weigh this decision, we've created charts to show an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of relocating from Oakland, CA to San Jose, CA . These comparisons aim to provide a balanced view of what to expect, highlighting both the challenges and rewards that come with such a move.

CONs
PROs
Oakland, CA iconOakland, CA
  • Higher crime rate
  • Cooler climate
  • More expensive housing
  • Fewer tech jobs
San Jose, CA iconSan Jose, CA
  • Lower crime rate
  • Warmer climate
  • More affordable housing
  • More tech jobs
San Jose, CA iconSan Jose, CA
  • Less cultural diversity
  • Fewer dining options
  • Less public transit
  • Quieter nightlife
Oakland, CA iconOakland, CA
  • Vibrant arts scene
  • Diverse dining options
  • Extensive public transit
  • Lively nightlife

When considering a move from Oakland to San Jose, it's worth diving deeper into what both cities offer. Oakland is recognized for its vibrant arts scene, with institutions like the Oakland Museum of California and events like the First Friday festival showcasing local talent. The city also boasts a diverse range of dining options, from street food at the Eat Real Festival to high-end meals at Commis, a Michelin-starred restaurant. On the other hand, San Jose offers a warmer climate and a booming tech job market thanks to its proximity to Silicon Valley, making it an ideal location for those in the tech industry. While it may have fewer cultural events and dining options compared to Oakland, San Jose is not without its charms, such as the San Pedro Square Market, a popular spot for foodies, and the annual San Jose Jazz Summer Fest, which attracts music lovers from all over. Both cities have their unique advantages and drawbacks, making the choice deeply personal based on one’s lifestyle, career, and preferences.

Oakland vs. San Jose Food Guide

Food is an integral aspect of local culture and daily life, shaping the experience of a locale. Understanding the culinary landscape is key when relocating. This guide provides a focused look at the comparison of the local cuisine between Oakland & San Jose, helping you get acquainted with the food scene of your new home.

OaklandSan Jose
Most iconic local food itemSourdough BreadPhở
Most popular meat dishBBQ RibsCarne Asada
Most popular street food itemTacosBanh Mi
Most popular vegan foodTempeh ReubenVegetarian Phở
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
  • Commis
  • Shakewell
  • Belotti Ristorante E Bottega
  • Original Joe's
  • Adega
  • Falafel's Drive-In
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
Abundance of Food Trucks🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
Foodie Scene🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

When diving into the culinary scenes of Oakland and San Jose, you'll find a rich tapestry of flavors shaped by diverse cultures. In Oakland, the Temescal neighborhood is a haven for foodies, where you can savor the famed Tempeh Reuben among other delights. Iconic restaurants like Commis offer a glimpse into Oakland's sophisticated dining scene. On the other hand, San Jose's Little Saigon is the heart of Vietnamese cuisine in the area, with places like Original Joe's and Adega highlighting the city's commitment to diverse and vibrant food experiences. Both cities boast an abundance of food trucks and vegan options, reflecting a strong health consciousness and an innovative culinary landscape ready for you to explore.

Oakland vs. San Jose Restaurant Comparison

Finding comfort in a new city often begins with discovering your next favorite meal. This comparison of top Oakland eateries to their San Jose counterparts will guide you through the culinary landscape, ensuring you don't miss a beat when transitioning from one vibrant city to the other. By using this chart, you'll easily find spots that match your taste and dining preferences, making your move a delicious journey. Let's dive into the comparison to help you transition from Oakland to San Jose .

OaklandSan JoseWhat You'll Love
CommisPlumed HorseBoth offer a high-end dining experience with Michelin-star credentials.
Burma SuperstarLudwig's German TableBoth provide an immersive ethnic dining experience with a focus on bold flavors.
ShakewellOrchestria Palm CourtUnique settings with a twist on traditional and inventive dishes.
HomeroomMac'n Cheese ShopComfort food central with a focus on cheesy goodness and a casual atmosphere.
Brown Sugar KitchenBack A YardBoth serve soulful, comfort food with a strong sense of community and culture.
Drake's DealershipOriginal Gravity Public HouseCraft beer fans will find a kindred spirit in both spots’ extensive selections and vibrant social scenes.
MuaSingleBarrelBoth offer a chic, atmospheric setting for drinks and bites, appealing to a trendy crowd.
PizzaioloTony Di Maggio's PizzaSimilar commitment to quality ingredients and the art of pizza making.
Cholita LindaÁngelou's Mexican GrillBoth celebrate Latin cuisine with a focus on authenticity and fresh ingredients.
SouvlaNemea Greek TavernaBoth restaurants bring a piece of the Mediterranean to California with their fresh, flavor-packed dishes.

When you settle into San Jose, finding that special spot where the food resonates with your personal tastes and experiences can truly make the city feel like home. For aficionados of finely crafted beers, transitioning from Drake's Dealership to Original Gravity Public House will feel seamless, as both establishments boast a curated selection of craft brews alongside a vibrant community atmosphere. Meanwhile, lovers of authentic Mediterranean flavors will appreciate the similarity in the freshness and culinary dedication found at Souvla in Oakland and Nemea Greek Taverna in San Jose. These carefully selected San Jose restaurants not only promise to continue serving your preferred meals but also offer the chance to explore new gastronomic delights within the comforting parameters of what you already love.

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Oakland vs. San Jose Real Estate & Living Facts

Real estate is a pivotal element in contemplating a move. Understanding the differences in housing aspects such as cost, architecture, and lifestyle between Oakland and San Jose is vital for making an informed decision. This comparison aims to highlight these critical factors.

ComparisonOaklandSan Jose
Typical Architecture StyleVictorian, CraftsmanSpanish, Modern
Walkability 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listingProximity to parks, BARTProximity to tech hubs, backyard pools

In comparing Oakland and San Jose, the median home price in San Jose is notably higher, reflecting its proximity to Silicon Valley and the demand for housing in a tech-dominated area. Meanwhile, Oakland offers a slightly more affordable housing market and boasts a diverse range of architectural styles including Victorian and Craftsman homes that appeal to buyers looking for historical charm. Walkability in Oakland is higher, making it easier for residents to get around without a car. However, San Jose scores slightly better in bikeability, reflecting its investment in bike-friendly infrastructure. The urban lifestyle rating is marginally higher in Oakland, potentially due to its vibrant art scene and nightlife. Considering these factors can guide your decision on where you might prefer to live based on your lifestyle preferences and budget.

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.

Oakland vs. San Jose Weather Considerations

Understanding how the weather compares between your current and future homes is essential when planning a move. Comparing the weather between Oakland, CA and San Jose, CA will help you anticipate changes in climate and better prepare for your relocation. It's about getting a clearer picture of what to expect, weather-wise, in your new environment.

Summer icon
75°F / 56°F

Oakland, CA

82°F / 58°F

San Jose, CA

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
58°F / 44°F

Oakland, CA

60°F / 42°F

San Jose, CA

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
23"

Oakland, CA

15.5"

San Jose, CA

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
0"

Oakland, CA

0"

San Jose, CA

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

ComparisonOaklandSan Jose
Air QualityGood to ModerateGood to Moderate
Natural DisastersEarthquakes, WildfiresEarthquakes, Wildfires
Days of Sunshine per Year☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. UV Index🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Avg. Annual Humidity💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦

When comparing Oakland and San Jose, you'll find both cities enjoy a Mediterranean climate with mild, wet winters and dry summers, though San Jose typically experiences slightly warmer summers. An interesting point of comparison is the annual rainfall, with Oakland receiving a bit more rain on average. This could influence your outdoor activities and garden planning. Air quality and potential for natural disasters like earthquakes and wildfires are similar in both cities, which suggests that familiar precautions will remain relevant in San Jose. Adjusting to your new environment will be an easier transition with these similarities, but it's always good to be prepared for slight differences.

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

When planning a move from Oakland to San Jose, it’s critical to grasp how the cost of living, taxation, and local economies will compare. This understanding will ensure you're prepared financially for the transition and can manage expectations regarding lifestyle changes between Oakland and San Jose.

ComparisonOaklandSan Jose
Avg. Household Income$82,236$126,377
Cost of Living Index139.1156.1
State Income Tax9.3%9.3%
Avg. Property Tax0.79%0.79%
Avg. Sales Tax9.25%9.25%
Top 3 IndustriesHealth Care, Retail, ManufacturingTechnology, Education, Health Care
AffluenceModerateHigh
PovertyConsiderableLower
HomelessnessSignificantModerate

The comparison between Oakland and San Jose highlights significant differences in household incomes, cost of living, and local industries, which could influence your decision to move. San Jose, with its higher average household income and affluence, reflects the wealth generated by its tech-driven economy. However, this prosperity comes with a higher cost of living. Conversely, Oakland offers more affordable living conditions but faces challenges such as higher poverty and homelessness rates. Understanding these dynamics will help you make an informed decision and prepare for the financial realities of your new home.

Oakland vs. San Jose Political & Religious Comparison

In preparing for your move from Oakland to San Jose, understanding the political and religious landscape of your new city can offer valuable insights into the community you're about to join. This comparison provides a quick snapshot of the political and religious makeup between Oakland and San Jose.

OaklandSan Jose
Political Make-upProgressive/LiberalModerately Liberal
Local PoliticsActive community involvementHigh tech influence
ReligionDiverse religious communitiesDiverse religious communities

Oakland and San Jose share a vibrant diversity in both their political and religious landscapes, yet each city shows its unique color. Oakland is known for its progressive and liberal politics, deeply influenced by active community involvement and a strong sense of civic engagement, reflecting a historical commitment to civil rights and social justice movements. San Jose, on the other hand, while still leaning liberal, showcases a more moderate stance, significantly shaped by its distinction as a global tech hub. The influence of the tech industry in San Jose extends to local politics, where technology and innovation often intersect with city governance. Both cities boast a rich diversity of religious communities, offering a wide range of places of worship and spiritual communities to join. Moving from Oakland to San Jose, you'll find that, despite differences, an underlying Californian spirit of inclusivity and innovation links your new home with your old.

Oakland vs. San Jose Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

Moving from Oakland, CA to San Jose, CA? Here's a comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Oakland & San Jose to help you better understand what your daily commute and traffic will be like.

ComparisonOaklandSan Jose
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)2925
Traffic Congestion 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦
Availability of Public Transit 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇
Can you get by without car?Yes, with challengesYes, but more challenging

In Oakland, while the average commute time is a bit higher than in San Jose, the city benefits from a slightly better public transportation network, scoring an 8 out of 10. This includes services like the BART, buses, and even ferries, making it feasible to get by without a car, albeit with some challenges depending on your specific needs and destinations. On the other hand, San Jose, although having a lower average commute time, finds its public transit options rating at a 7, with services like the VTA light rail and buses. The slightly lower score reflects a public transit system that's robust but might not cover all areas comprehensively, implying a higher reliance on cars, especially for suburban areas.

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