Best Salinas to Fresno Movers + Moving Guide

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If you're moving from Salinas to Fresno and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 148 mile long distance California move go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 42 Salinas to Fresno 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 Santa Cruz Moving Services), how much the move costs (approximately $1,500 - $4,500 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Salinas compared to Fresno. 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 Salinas to Fresno Moving Companies

RankCompany NameRating QuestionAffordability IndexContact
1Santa Cruz Moving Services9.489.55Contact
2G Brothers Transportation9.289.49Contact
3Strong Oak Moving9.259.15Contact
4College Hunks Hauling Junk and Moving9.199.14Contact
5Mod Movers8.808.1Contact
Phone (800) 787-5428

Cost to Move from Salinas to Fresno

Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 148 miles from Salinas, CA to Fresno, CA will cost on average $1,907 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Salinas to Fresno move is roughly $4,552. 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$1,286300 ft³4.29
1 Bedroom$1,907450 ft³4.24
2 Bedrooms$3,141750 ft³4.19
3 Bedrooms$4,5521100 ft³4.14
4 Bedrooms$6,5411600 ft³4.09
5+ Bedrooms$7,2681800 ft³4.04
*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 Fresno to Salinas guide.

Compare the 5 Best Salinas to Fresno Movers

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

Santa Cruz Moving Services Logo

Santa Cruz Moving Services

Exceptional9.48/10
based on 946+ data points

Santa Cruz, CA

About Santa Cruz Moving Services

Santa Cruz Moving Services is a family-owned and operated California moving company providing high-quality services for moves across the street, within...

Services

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

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2769204 / -

Not Authorized

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans4
Registered Drivers4
Total Annual Miles Moved10,000 (2018)
View Full Review
1
G Brothers Transportation Logo

G Brothers Transportation

Exceptional9.28/10
based on 546+ data points

11455 Wood St # 4

Castroville, CA, 95012

About G Brothers Transportation

G Brothers Transportation is a moving company that offers honest, professional, and reliable services to its customers. The company provides a...

Services

  • Home Moves
  • Office Moves
  • Piano Moves

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2922866 / -

Not Authorized

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans3
Registered Drivers4
Total Annual Miles Moved39,359 (2023)
View Full Review
2
Strong Oak Moving Logo

Strong Oak Moving

Exceptional9.25/10
based on 351+ data points

Tulare, CA

About Strong Oak Moving

Strong Oak Moving is a full-service California moving company serving customers in Visalia, Tulare, Hanford, Lemoore, Fresno, Clovis, and surrounding areas....

Services

  • Local Moving
  • Long-Distance Moving
  • Cross-Country Moving
View Full Review
3
College Hunks Hauling Junk and Moving Logo

College Hunks Hauling Junk and Moving

Exceptional9.19/10
based on 3,738+ data points

317 W Bedford Ave # 106

Fresno, CA, 93711

About College Hunks Hauling Junk and Moving

College Hunks Hauling Junk and Moving is the moving company for people who want the job done right, every time. Founded...

Services

  • Full-service moving company
  • Junk Removal & Trash Pickup
  • Hourly moving & packing services

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 9/11/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2966877 / 53286

Authorized For Property

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans5
Registered Drivers5
Total Annual Miles Moved50,000 (2022)
View Full Review
4
Mod Movers Logo

Mod Movers

Superb8.80/10
based on 1,087+ data points

1118 Airport Way STE 100

Monterey, CA, 93940

About Mod Movers

Mod Movers is one of the top-rated moving companies in Northern California. This locally-owned business in Monterey operates throughout the Golden...

Services

  • Local Movers
  • Long Distance Movers
  • Interstate Movers

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/10/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2983026 / 1294330

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans4
Registered Drivers4
Total Annual Miles Moved20,000 (2023)
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.

Salinas vs. Fresno Neighborhood Comparison

Moving to a new city can be daunting, especially when you're not familiar with the local areas. To ease this transition, we've compared the local neighborhoods between Salinas, CA & Fresno, CA . This comparison aims to help you find a new neighborhood in Fresno that feels like home by using your knowledge of Salinas's neighborhoods as a base.

SalinasFresnoHow They're Similar
South SalinasOld Fig GardenSimilar historic charm
Maple ParkTower DistrictRich history and vibrant community
North SalinasWoodward ParkFamily-friendly with ample parks
CreekbridgeClovis WestModern, with excellent schools
Monte VistaBullardQuiet, established neighborhood
Harrod HomesSunnysideSpacious homes and yards
Southwest SalinasVan Ness ExtensionUpscale, large homes
LaurelwoodFig Garden LoopFamily-friendly, upscale
Los OlivosSierra Sky ParkUnique, aviation-oriented
East SalinasTarpey VillageCommunity-centric, diverse

If you're moving from Salinas's Maple Park, known for its engaging community and annual traditions, you'll find a similar spirit in Fresno's Tower District. The Tower District is celebrated for its vibrant local arts scene, historic theater, and bustling cafes like Ike's Café, creating a bustling, friendly atmosphere. For those who appreciate the family-oriented and park-rich environment of North Salinas, Woodward Park in Fresno mirrors these qualities, boasting sprawling green spaces such as the well-loved Woodward Regional Park and dog-friendly areas, making it perfect for outdoor activities and family picnics. Similarly, if the upscale, quiet charm of Southwest Salinas appeases you, the Van Ness Extension in Fresno offers luxurious living with spacious properties, echoing the tranquility and exclusivity you’ve come to cherish.

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Pros and Cons of Moving from Salinas to Fresno

Moving from Salinas, CA to Fresno, CA encompasses a journey through contrasting landscapes and communities. This comparison aims to provide a honest reflection of the transition from Salinas to Fresno, emphasizing the unique characteristics and opportunities each city offers. By examining the pros and cons, you'll gain insights into what awaits in Fresno and what will be left behind in Salinas.

CONs
PROs
Salinas, CA iconSalinas, CA
  • Higher living costs
  • Smaller city vibe
  • Fewer job opportunities
  • Cooler coastal climate
Fresno, CA iconFresno, CA
  • More affordable housing
  • Larger city amenities
  • Broader job market
  • Warmer inland weather
Fresno, CA iconFresno, CA
  • Farther from beaches
  • Louder city life
  • Less local produce
  • Hotter summers
Salinas, CA iconSalinas, CA
  • Proximity to coast
  • Quieter neighborhoods
  • Rich agricultural scene
  • Mild weather

Transitioning from Salinas to Fresno offers a blend of trade-offs and enhancements in your living environment. While Salinas boasts the serene beauty of locations like Natividad Creek Park and the convenience of coastal access, Fresno counters with unique urban opportunities, including a diverse culinary scene epitomized by places like the River Park Shopping Center and Fresno Chaffee Zoo. Additionally, Fresno's affordable housing market and broader job prospects present tangible benefits for newcomers. Both cities offer distinctive lifestyles; your preference between quieter, coastal living and a more dynamic urban experience will guide your decision. Do consider the climate shift; while Salinas offers a cooler, more tempered climate, Fresno welcomes residents with its sun-drenched days, particularly appealing to those who enjoy warmer weather.

Salinas vs. Fresno Food Guide

Understanding the essence of local culture is incomplete without exploring its culinary scene. Food tells stories, connects communities, and brings unique flavors to our lives. This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Salinas & Fresno , giving you a taste of what each city offers as you consider making a move. This insight will help better prepare you for the food scene awaiting in your new home.

SalinasFresno
Most iconic local food itemArtichokesGrapes
Most popular meat dishTri-tip steakChicken Shawarma
Most popular street food itemTacosTacos
Most popular vegan foodVegan burritosVegan sushi
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
  • Restaurant 1
  • Restaurant 2
  • Restaurant 3
  • Restaurant 1
  • Restaurant 2
  • Restaurant 3
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
Abundance of Food Trucks🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
Foodie Scene🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

In Salinas, the artichoke reigns supreme, a testament to the city's rich agricultural lands. Tri-tip steak, reflecting California's ranching heritage, is another local favorite, often enjoyed at gatherings and family barbecues. Vegan options, notably vegan burritos, signify an increasing move towards inclusivity in dietary preferences. Meanwhile, in Fresno, the abundance of grapes not only fuels the wine industry but also influences local cuisine. The city's diverse community brings an array of flavors to the street food scene, where tacos stand shoulder-to-shoulder with international dishes like chicken shawarma. Fresno's food culture is vibrant and diverse, with a significant lean towards health and fitness, as reflected in the prevalence of food trucks offering a variety of cuisines and the general receptiveness to vegan-friendly options.

Salinas vs. Fresno Restaurant Comparison

Moving to a new city brings the challenge of finding your new go-to spots for delicious meals. This restaurant comparison between Salinas and Fresno aims to ease your transition by pointing you towards eateries in Fresno that echo the familiar flavors of Salinas's top restaurants. Whether you're seeking high-end dining, casual bites, iconic eateries, or budget-friendly options, this guide has you covered.

SalinasFresnoWhat You'll Love
Giorgio's Italian RestaurantOvidio Italian RestaurantComforting homemade pasta dishes similar to Giorgio's.
La Casa del SazonEl BajioAuthentic Mexican cuisine with a home-cooked feel akin to La Casa del Sazon.
PatriaThe Annex Kitchenoffers a farm-to-table experience with European influences like Patria.
Eagle RestaurantPhoenician Garden Mediterranean Bar and GrillSimilar Middle Eastern flavors in a cozy atmosphere.
Gino's Fine Italian FoodParma RestaurantDelivers classic Italian meals with a similar passion for quality.
Sang's CafeThe Cosmopolitan TavernOffers a diverse menu that reflects the eclectic spirit of Sang's Cafe.
Salinas City BBQMike's GrillKnown for hearty, smoked barbecue dishes that rival those at Salinas City BBQ.
Fish House Bar & GrillPismo's Coastal GrillA seafood haven for those missing the fresh catch from Fish House.
First AwakeningsBatter Up PancakesA breakfast favorite for pancake enthusiasts seeking a similar vibe to First Awakenings.
Monterey Coast Brewing Co.Sequoia Brewing CompanyOffers a selection of craft beers and a laid-back atmosphere comparable to the Brewing Co.

When you find yourself missing the warmly familiar Italian dishes of Gino's Fine Italian Food in Salinas, Parma Restaurant in Fresno stands ready to fill that void with its meticulously prepared classic Italian meals, reminiscent of those back home. Meanwhile, seafood lovers who frequently dined at Fish House Bar & Grill for their fresh catch will find comfort in the delights offered by Pismo's Coastal Grill, which prides itself on serving fresh seafood that rivals the quality and taste experienced in Salinas. And for those seeking a bit of barbecue, Mike's Grill in Fresno offers that smoky, heartwarming barbecue flavor, ensuring that the transition from Salinas City BBQ is a smooth and satisfying one.

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Salinas vs. Fresno Real Estate & Living Facts

Real estate plays a pivotal role in your relocation adventures. It's crucial to comprehend how Salinas and Fresno compare in terms of housing details like cost and lifestyle features. Knowing this will aid in making an informed decision for a harmonious new start.

ComparisonSalinasFresno
Typical Architecture StyleModern RanchSpanish Colonial
Walkability 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listingSpacious yards, proximity to agricultureCultural diversity, nearness to parks

Moving from Salinas to Fresno introduces you to a noticeable shift in housing dynamics. Fresno's lower median home and rent prices provide an opportunity for more affordable living, possibly with additional space for your investment. Additionally, Fresno touts a slightly higher urban lifestyle rating, indicative of its bustling city life and cultural vibrancy. Despite a lower walkability score, Fresno compensates with its rich diversity and access to numerous parks, reflecting its real estate listings that frequently mention nearby green spaces. The architecture in Fresno leans towards the historic Spanish Colonial style, giving the city a unique aesthetic that differs from Salinas' more modern Ranch style homes.

Salinas vs. Fresno Weather Considerations

Moving between cities necessitates understanding how weather patterns might affect your lifestyle. Comparing the climate from Salinas to Fresno will help predict how comfortable you'll feel in your new home and what seasonal adjustments you might need to make.

Summer icon
68°F / 52°F

Salinas, CA

97°F / 66°F

Fresno, CA

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
60°F / 42°F

Salinas, CA

55°F / 38°F

Fresno, CA

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
15"

Salinas, CA

11.5"

Fresno, CA

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
0"

Salinas, CA

0"

Fresno, CA

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

ComparisonSalinasFresno
Air QualityGoodModerate to Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups
Natural DisastersMild earthquakes, floodsHeatwaves, droughts
Days of Sunshine per Year☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. UV Index🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Avg. Annual Humidity💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦

When moving from Salinas to Fresno, expect a significant increase in temperatures during summer with Fresno reaching highs of 97°F whereas Salinas experiences a more moderate climate with highs averaging 68°F. Fresno also boasts more sunny days per year, slightly higher than Salinas, which might be appealing for those who love outdoor activities. However, it's crucial to consider Fresno's air quality, which can range from moderate to unhealthy for sensitive groups, contrasting with Salinas' generally good air quality. Additionally, both cities have their own set of natural disaster risks – from mild earthquakes and floods in Salinas to heatwaves and droughts in Fresno.

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Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Salinas to Fresno

When planning a move, it's crucial to understand how the cost of living and income prospects between Salinas and Fresno compare. This comparison provides insights into finance and economy aspects, focusing on the differences between Salinas and Fresno, to help in making an informed decision.

ComparisonSalinasFresno
Avg. Household Income$80,154$61,250
Cost of Living Index136.4117.3
State Income Tax9.39.3
Avg. Property Tax0.790.77
Avg. Sales Tax9.258.23
Top 3 IndustriesAgriculture, Manufacturing, Health ServicesAgriculture, Health Services, Education
AffluenceModerateLower
PovertyHighHigher
HomelessnessModerateSignificant

Moving from Salinas to Fresno, you'll likely find that your dollar stretches further due to Fresno's lower cost of living index. Although the average household income in Fresno is lower than in Salinas, the difference in living costs might balance out your budget. Both cities share the same state income tax rate, which ensures uniformity in that aspect of finance. The slight differences in property and sales taxes between the two cities could also impact your financial planning. Moreover, while both cities are powered by agriculture, each has distinct leading industries, which may influence job opportunities. When considering affluence, poverty, and homelessness, both cities face challenges, with Fresno having a higher poverty rate but also offering an opportunity for growth and investment in community and economic development.

Salinas vs. Fresno Political & Religious Comparison

This comparison seeks to provide a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents when moving from Salinas, CA to Fresno, CA . Understand how these aspects play out in your current city compared to your future home.

SalinasFresno
Political Make-upLean DemocraticLean Democratic
Local PoliticsProgressive on social issuesModerately progressive
ReligionCatholic majority, diverse faith communitiesDiverse religious landscape with a strong Catholic presence

In both Salinas and Fresno, the lean towards Democratic tendencies reflects a Californian trend, however, the intensity of these political beliefs can vary, with Salinas showing slightly more progressive stances on social issues. Religion plays a significant role in community life in both cities, each hosting a strong Catholic presence alongside a spectrum of other faiths, reinforcing the cultural diversity. This blend of political and religious climates contributes to the vibrant and diverse communities you'll encounter, moving from Salinas to Fresno.

Salinas vs. Fresno Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

Moving from Salinas, CA to Fresno, CA? This comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Salinas & Fresno is designed to help you understand what to expect in terms of daily commute and traffic in your new home.

ComparisonSalinasFresno
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)2422
Traffic Congestion 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦
Availability of Public Transit 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇
Can you get by without car?Possible but challengingMore challenging

In Salinas, you might find your commute slightly longer on average compared to Fresno, but Salinas experiences slightly less traffic congestion. Public transit is more available in Salinas, indicating that navigating the city without a car could be somewhat easier than in Fresno. However, both cities pose challenges for those looking to rely solely on public transportation or alternative transport methods. Understanding these differences can aid in planning your daily travels and managing expectations regarding commute times and the convenience of public transit in your new city.

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