Best Oakland to San Jose Movers + Moving Guide
Want help with the heavy lifting?
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.

Best Oakland to San Jose Moving Companies
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 Size | Moving Cost | Volume of Packed Items (ft³) | $/ft³ |
---|---|---|---|
Studio | $1,226 | 300 ft³ | 4.09 |
1 Bedroom | $1,817 | 450 ft³ | 4.04 |
2 Bedrooms | $2,991 | 750 ft³ | 3.99 |
3 Bedrooms | $4,331 | 1100 ft³ | 3.94 |
4 Bedrooms | $6,220 | 1600 ft³ | 3.89 |
5+ Bedrooms | $6,908 | 1800 ft³ | 3.84 |

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
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
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3277021 / - Not Authorized Carrier |
Registered Trucks/Vans | 8 |
Registered Drivers | 8 |
Total Annual Miles Moved | 5,000 (2021) |

Quantum Moving
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
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3163557 / - Not Authorized Carrier |
Registered Trucks/Vans | 3 |
Registered Drivers | 5 |
Total Annual Miles Moved | 35,000 (2022) |

OCD Moving Services LLC
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
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2597230 / 911812 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
Registered Trucks/Vans | 6 |
Registered Drivers | 6 |
Total Annual Miles Moved | 153,000 (2022) |

Pure Moving Company
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

California Loyal Movers
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
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2020505 / - Not Authorized Carrier |
Registered Trucks/Vans | 3 |
Registered Drivers | 2 |
Total Annual Miles Moved | 1 (2018) |

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.

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.
Oakland | San Jose | How They're Similar |
---|---|---|
Rockridge | Willow Glen | Family-friendly, vibrant main street |
Montclair | Almaden Valley | Scenic, suburban feel |
Piedmont Avenue | Santana Row | Upscale shopping & dining |
Temescal | Cambrian Park | Diverse eateries & community vibe |
Grand Lake | Los Gatos | Lively, near natural attractions |
Jack London Square | Downtown San Jose | Urban living, entertainment options |
West Oakland | Japantown | Rich history, unique cultural scene |
Adams Point | Rose Garden | Residential, historic homes |
North Oakland | Evergreen | Family-oriented, peaceful |
Lake Merritt | Alviso | Waterfront 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.
Ready to start your move?
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.
- Higher crime rate
- Cooler climate
- More expensive housing
- Fewer tech jobs
- Lower crime rate
- Warmer climate
- More affordable housing
- More tech jobs
- Less cultural diversity
- Fewer dining options
- Less public transit
- Quieter nightlife
- 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.
Oakland | San Jose | |
---|---|---|
Most iconic local food item | Sourdough Bread | Phở |
Most popular meat dish | BBQ Ribs | Carne Asada |
Most popular street food item | Tacos | Banh Mi |
Most popular vegan food | Tempeh Reuben | Vegetarian Phở |
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
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 .
Oakland | San Jose | What You'll Love |
---|---|---|
Commis | Plumed Horse | Both offer a high-end dining experience with Michelin-star credentials. |
Burma Superstar | Ludwig's German Table | Both provide an immersive ethnic dining experience with a focus on bold flavors. |
Shakewell | Orchestria Palm Court | Unique settings with a twist on traditional and inventive dishes. |
Homeroom | Mac'n Cheese Shop | Comfort food central with a focus on cheesy goodness and a casual atmosphere. |
Brown Sugar Kitchen | Back A Yard | Both serve soulful, comfort food with a strong sense of community and culture. |
Drake's Dealership | Original Gravity Public House | Craft beer fans will find a kindred spirit in both spots’ extensive selections and vibrant social scenes. |
Mua | SingleBarrel | Both offer a chic, atmospheric setting for drinks and bites, appealing to a trendy crowd. |
Pizzaiolo | Tony Di Maggio's Pizza | Similar commitment to quality ingredients and the art of pizza making. |
Cholita Linda | Ángelou's Mexican Grill | Both celebrate Latin cuisine with a focus on authenticity and fresh ingredients. |
Souvla | Nemea Greek Taverna | Both 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.

Ready to start your move?
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.
Comparison | Oakland | San Jose |
---|---|---|
Typical Architecture Style | Victorian, Craftsman | Spanish, Modern |
Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Proximity to parks, BART | Proximity 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 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.
Oakland, CA
San Jose, CA
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Oakland, CA
San Jose, CA
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Oakland, CA
San Jose, CA
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Oakland, CA
San Jose, CA
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Comparison | Oakland | San Jose |
---|---|---|
Air Quality | Good to Moderate | Good to Moderate |
Natural Disasters | Earthquakes, Wildfires | Earthquakes, 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.
Ready to start your move?
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.
Comparison | Oakland | San Jose |
---|---|---|
Avg. Household Income | $82,236 | $126,377 |
Cost of Living Index | 139.1 | 156.1 |
State Income Tax | 9.3% | 9.3% |
Avg. Property Tax | 0.79% | 0.79% |
Avg. Sales Tax | 9.25% | 9.25% |
Top 3 Industries | Health Care, Retail, Manufacturing | Technology, Education, Health Care |
Affluence | Moderate | High |
Poverty | Considerable | Lower |
Homelessness | Significant | Moderate |
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.
Oakland | San Jose | |
---|---|---|
Political Make-up | Progressive/Liberal | Moderately Liberal |
Local Politics | Active community involvement | High tech influence |
Religion | Diverse religious communities | Diverse 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.
Comparison | Oakland | San Jose |
---|---|---|
Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 29 | 25 |
Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
Can you get by without car? | Yes, with challenges | Yes, 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.



Additional Resources
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Popular Oakland to California Routes
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