Best San Francisco to Tacoma Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from San Francisco to Tacoma and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 780 mile move from California to Washington go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 26 San Francisco to Tacoma 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 OCD Moving Services LLC), how much the move costs (approximately $1,500 - $6,000 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in San Francisco compared to Tacoma. 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 San Francisco to Tacoma Moving Companies
| Rank | Company Name | Rating  | Affordability Index | License | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | OCD Moving Services LLC | 9.66 | 9.47 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 2 | John Volken Academy Movers | 9.33 | 9.65 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 3 | Bay - L.A. Express Moving | 9.32 | 9.49 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 4 | Careful Movers | 9.31 | 8.63 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 5 | First Due Movers | 9.25 | 9.06 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
(800) 787-5428Cost to Move from San Francisco to Tacoma
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 780 miles from San Francisco, CA to Tacoma, WA will cost on average $2,445 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom San Francisco to Tacoma move is roughly $5,866. 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 | $1,645 | 300 ft³ | 5.48 |
| 1 Bedroom | $2,445 | 450 ft³ | 5.43 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $4,037 | 750 ft³ | 5.38 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $5,866 | 1100 ft³ | 5.33 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $8,452 | 1600 ft³ | 5.28 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $9,418 | 1800 ft³ | 5.23 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Tacoma to San Francisco guide.
Compare the 5 Best San Francisco to Tacoma Movers
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
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) |
John Volken Academy Movers
921 Central Ave N
Kent, WA, 98032
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 business...
Services
- Local Moving
- Commercial Moving
- Residential Moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2261169 / 1666977 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 6 |
| Registered Drivers | 8 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 200 (2015) |
Bay - L.A. Express Moving
8 22nd St
San Francisco, CA, 94107
About Bay - L.A. Express Moving
Bay-L.A. Express Moving is a professional moving company that serves Los Angeles, San Francisco, and the entire Bay Area. Specializing in...
Services
- Long-distance moving
- Small relocation
- Full packing services
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 1396171 / 530464 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 2 |
| Registered Drivers | 3 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 60,000 (2022) |
Careful Movers
3641 Haven Ave C
Menlo Park, CA, 94025
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, and on-budget...
Services
- Local Moving
- Long Distance Moving
- Office Moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 1464935 / 553377 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 14 |
| Registered Drivers | 14 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 90,000 (2022) |
First Due Movers
8126 304th Ave SE
Preston, WA, 98050
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...
Services
- Residential Moves
- Commercial Moves
- Long-Distance Moves
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 1990914 / 865709 Authorized For Property, HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 12 |
| Registered Drivers | 20 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 205,000 (2022) |
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.
San Francisco vs. Tacoma Neighborhood Comparison
When moving from one city to another, familiarizing yourself with your new surroundings can be a daunting task. To ease this transition, this guide offers a comparison of the local neighborhoods between San Francisco, CA & Tacoma, WA , using neighborhoods from your current city as a baseline to find a similar vibe in your new city. Whether you're in search of bustling urban life or a quiet, scenic area, this comparison will help you find a place in Tacoma that feels like home.
| San Francisco | Tacoma | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Marina District | Old Town | Waterfront views, vibrant community vibe |
| The Mission | 6th Avenue | Diverse cultures, bustling nightlife |
| Haight-Ashbury | Proctor District | Bohemian atmosphere, unique local businesses |
| SoMa (South of Market) | Downtown Tacoma | Urban living, cultural attractions |
| Nob Hill | Stadium District | Historic homes, stunning views |
| North Beach | Ruston | Waterfront leisure, rich history |
| Castro | Hilltop | Inclusive community, arts scene |
| Richmond District | North End | Quiet, residential, close to parks |
| Pacific Heights | Old Tacoma | Exclusive, breathtaking views |
| Financial District | New Tacoma | Central business district, modern amenities |
For those moving from San Francisco's Marina District, you'll find Tacoma's Old Town appealing with its waterfront views and vibrant community atmosphere reminiscent of many marina-side locales. Similarly, if the culturally rich and diverse environment of The Mission was your go-to, the 6th Avenue area in Tacoma offers a comparable blend of unique restaurants and lively nightlife. San Francisco's Haight-Ashbury is well-known for its bohemian vibe, an ambiance that Tacoma's Proctor District embodies with its eclectic mix of local businesses and artistic flair. Nob Hill residents looking for a similar sense of history paired with stunning views will feel at home in Tacoma's Stadium District, where historic homes overlook Commencement Bay. This guide aims to ease your transition and help you discover neighborhoods in Tacoma that resonate with your lifestyle preferences, ensuring you feel right at home in your new city.
Things to Do in Tacoma
Explore Point Defiance Park- Visit Museum of Glass
- Stroll along Ruston Way Waterfront
- Shop at Proctor District
- Catch a movie at The Grand Cinema
- Enjoy America's Car Museum
- Attend Tacoma Art Walk
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from San Francisco to Tacoma
Moving from one city to another is always a journey filled with excitement and challenges. With this comparison, we aim to provide an honest reflection of the good and bad attributes of relocating from San Francisco, CA to Tacoma, WA. By examining the pros and cons, you’ll be better equipped to make an informed decision about this significant change.
San Francisco, CA- High cost of living
- Dense population
- Heavy traffic
- Less green space
Tacoma, WA- More affordable housing
- Smaller city feel
- Less congestion
- More parks
Tacoma, WA- Quieter nightlife
- Fewer job opportunities
- Smaller food scene
- Fewer tourist attractions
San Francisco, CA- Vibrant culture
- Tech hub
- Diverse cuisine
- Iconic landmarks
Moving from a bustling city like San Francisco, with its iconic Golden Gate Bridge, diverse neighborhoods like the Mission District, and world-renowned restaurants such as Gary Danko, to the more serene and picturesque Tacoma is a significant shift. Tacoma, however, has its gems; it is home to beautiful parks such as Point Defiance and vibrant cultural spots like the Museum of Glass. The city offers a smaller yet strong community feel, with local restaurants and cafes like Point Defiance Café and vibrant districts like Proctor and Stadium District, that more than make up for its quieter nightlife. This move promises a blend of urban living with the charm and ease of a smaller city, making it a compelling choice for many.
San Francisco vs. Tacoma Food Guide
This is a comparison of the local cuisine between San Francisco, CA & Tacoma, WA, underscoring the essence of food as a vital element of local culture and living experience. By examining these culinary landscapes, you'll gain insights into what your new home has to offer food-wise.
| San Francisco | Tacoma | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Sourdough Bread | Dungeness Crab |
| Most popular meat dish | Mission Burrito | Grilled Salmon |
| Most popular street food item | Food Trucks offerings | Teriyaki |
| Most popular vegan food | Plant-based Burgers | Vegan Pho |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
While San Francisco is celebrated for its sourdough bread and the iconic Mission Burrito, Tacoma takes pride in its local Dungeness Crab and the beloved Grilled Salmon, found in waters nearby. San Francisco's food scene is renowned for its innovation, showcased in legendary establishments such as The French Laundry, Chez Panisse, and Slanted Door, offering a diverse and sophisticated dining experience. Tacoma, while smaller, has its own culinary gems like Indochine Asian Dining Lounge and Wooden City, providing a cozy yet eclectic mix of flavors that reflect the Pacific Northwest. Whether you're strolling through San Francisco's vibrant food truck scene or exploring Tacoma's unique eateries, you'll discover a rich tapestry of tastes that signify each city's food culture.
San Francisco vs. Tacoma Restaurant Comparison
As you prepare to make the move from San Francisco, CA to Tacoma, WA, finding your new culinary favorites is crucial for feeling at home. This comparison of top restaurants in San Francisco to their Tacoma counterparts serves as your guide to discover delightful dining options that echo your tastes and preferences. Whether you're craving high-end dining or looking for casual eats, this list will help bridge the culinary gap between the two cities.
| San Francisco | Tacoma | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| State Bird Provisions | Over The Moon Cafe | Quaint, unique dining experience with inventive American cuisine |
| The French Laundry | Indochine Asian Dining Lounge | Elegant setting for upscale dining with a focus on fine details |
| Zuni Café | Asado Cucina Argentina | A modern twist on classic dishes in a chic atmosphere |
| Tartine Bakery | Corina Bakery | Cozy bakery cafe offering a wide variety of delicious baked goods |
| Mission Chinese Food | Indochine Asian Dining Lounge | Bold flavors and innovative fusion dishes |
| Swan Oyster Depot | Fish Peddler | Fresh seafood market and restaurant with a local vibe |
| Tadich Grill | Duke's Seafood | Classic seafood with time-honored recipes and a commitment to sustainability |
| La Taqueria | Vuelve a la Vida | Authentic Mexican cuisine with a focus on fresh ingredients and flavors |
| Benu | En Rama | Upscale dining experience with a focus on creative plates and fine wines |
| Nopa | The Table | Farm-to-table dining with a rotating menu of seasonal, local ingredients |
In the pursuit of familiar flavors and dining experiences, transitioning from San Francisco to Tacoma can be a culinary adventure. For instance, if you're reminiscent of the innovative American cuisine at State Bird Provisions, Over The Moon Cafe in Tacoma awaits to delight your palate with its unique and inventive dishes. Similarly, lovers of Tartine Bakery's freshly baked goods will find solace in the warm and welcoming environment of Corina Bakery, where the scent of freshly baked pastries fills the air. As lovers of seafood transition from the iconic Swan Oyster Depot, they'll find the Fish Peddler's fresh offerings to be a taste of home, underscoring Tacoma's own vibrant seafood scene. Each of these Tacoma restaurants not only provides a taste reminiscent of San Francisco's diverse cuisine but also introduces you to the local flavors and community of your new home.
Ready to start your move?
San Francisco vs. Tacoma Real Estate & Living Facts
When considering a move, understanding the real estate landscape of your new city is crucial. This comparison between San Francisco and Tacoma sheds light on various housing aspects to help you make an informed decision.
| Comparison | San Francisco | Tacoma |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Victorian and Modern | Craftsman and Mid-Century Modern |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Views, luxury finishes | Large yards, proximity to parks |
In both San Francisco and Tacoma, the housing market reflects the city's lifestyle and culture. San Francisco's real estate is among the most expensive in the nation, with a high demand for its Victorian and modern homes—many listings highlighting luxury finishes and breathtaking views. On the other hand, Tacoma, while more affordable, offers a different charm with its Craftsman and mid-century modern homes that often come with large yards and immediate access to parks and recreational areas. The significant difference in walkability and bikeability scores between the two cities highlights San Francisco's urban, dense layout compared to Tacoma's more spread-out, car-dependent environment. This contrast extends to the overall urban lifestyle score, where San Francisco ranks at a perfect 10, reflecting its bustling, metropolitan vibe versus Tacoma's more laid-back, suburban atmosphere.
Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Tacoma, WA
1. North End: With its sprawling Ruston Way Waterfront and multiple dog-friendly parks, North End offers you and your pet ample green space and scenic walks along Commencement Bay.
2. Proctor District: The walkable neighborhood vibe of the Proctor District is enhanced by its pet-friendly businesses and the nearby Point Defiance Park, offering endless outdoor adventures for you and your furry friend.
3. Stadium District: Known for its historic charm, the Stadium District features pet-friendly cafes and easy access to Wright Park, making it a perfect place for pet owners who enjoy urban living with a touch of nature.
San Francisco vs. Tacoma Weather Considerations
When planning a move from San Francisco, CA to Tacoma, WA , it's crucial to grasp how the weather will shift. Understanding the climatic differences prepares you for adapting to your new environment, ensuring you're not caught off guard by the changes in temperature, sunlight, and precipitation levels .
San Francisco, CA
Tacoma, WA
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
San Francisco, CA
Tacoma, WA
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
San Francisco, CA
Tacoma, WA
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
San Francisco, CA
Tacoma, WA
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | San Francisco | Tacoma |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Good | Moderate |
| Natural Disasters | Earthquakes, Fog | Earthquakes, Volcanic Activity |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
Tacoma experiences more seasonal variations than San Francisco, with warmer summers and colder winters. Moreover, you'll find Tacoma significantly cloudier, receiving fewer days of sunshine annually. This change can affect your mood and may require some adjustment. The higher average annual rainfall in Tacoma also means you'll likely need a sturdy umbrella and waterproof clothing as staples in your wardrobe. Additionally, the air quality and top seasonal allergies difference could impact those sensitive to such environmental factors, underscoring the importance of preparing ahead for the move.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from San Francisco to Tacoma
When considering a move from one city to another, it's crucial to understand the financial and economic differences that will impact your daily life. This comparison focuses on San Francisco and Tacoma , exploring key factors such as income, taxes, and living costs. Understanding these variables can help you make an informed decision about your relocation.
| Comparison | San Francisco | Tacoma |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $121,826 | $77,141 |
| Cost of Living Index | 164 | 109.5 |
| State Income Tax | 13.3 | 0 |
| Avg. Property Tax | 0.6 | 1.1 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 8.5 | 10.2 |
| Top 3 Industries | Technology, Finance, Tourism | Manufacturing, Healthcare, Retail |
| Affluence | Very High | Moderate |
| Poverty | Low | Higher |
| Homelessness | High | Moderate |
Moving from San Francisco to Tacoma will significantly change your financial landscape. With San Francisco's average household income well above Tacoma's, but also coupled with a substantially higher cost of living, you might find your dollar stretches further in Tacoma. No state income tax in Washington is a considerable advantage, possibly offsetting the higher sales and property taxes in comparison to California. Moreover, shifting from a city dominated by technology and finance sectors to one where manufacturing and healthcare lead could mean career opportunities in different fields. Understanding these economic differences is key to a successful relocation.
San Francisco vs. Tacoma Political & Religious Comparison
This comparison provides a quick glance at the differences in the political and religious makeup between San Francisco & Tacoma , aiming to give you an understanding of the community you’re moving into.
| San Francisco | Tacoma | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Heavily Democratic | Moderately Democratic |
| Local Politics | Liberal policies, strong focus on social issues | Progressive with an emphasis on inclusivity and community development |
| Religion | Less religiously affiliated, diverse religious communities | More religious diversity with notable Christian and non-denominational communities, Tacoma Christian Center |
In moving from San Francisco to Tacoma, you’ll find yourself transitioning from an area known for its heavily Democratic and liberal stance to a city that, while still leaning Democratic, adopts a slightly more moderate approach on various political fronts. Tacoma showcases a unique blend of progressive policies centered around community development and inclusivity. Religious diversity is more pronounced in Tacoma, where you'll encounter a variety of faith communities, including a notable presence of Christian and non-denominational organizations, such as the Tacoma Christian Center, highlighting a slightly more traditional religious backdrop compared to San Francisco's less-affiliated religious landscape.
San Francisco vs. Tacoma Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
If you're considering a move from San Francisco, CA to Tacoma, WA, understanding the differences in daily commute and traffic as well as transportation options between these two cities is crucial. This comparison aims to provide clear insights to help ease your transition.
| Comparison | San Francisco | Tacoma |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 34 | 26 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | Yes | Somewhat |
When relocating from San Francisco to Tacoma, you'll notice a significant difference in your daily commute. San Francisco's higher traffic congestion ranking reflects its more intensive urban density and usage of roads. That said, the city's excellent public transit score demonstrates an extensive network of buses, trains, and ferries, like SFMTA, making it feasible to live without a car. In contrast, Tacoma presents a more relaxed commute with less congestion and a decent, though less comprehensive, array of public transit options. You might find Tacoma easier to navigate by car, but services like Sound Transit offer valuable alternatives for commuters looking to avoid the hassle of driving and parking every day.
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