San Francisco, CA to Dayton, OH Movers (NEW 2026 Costs)
Quick answer: Moving from San Francisco to Dayton typically costs $4,000–$8,100 with full-service movers for a 2–3 bedroom home (about 2,370 miles). Use our moving cost calculator below to get an instant estimate.
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Cost to move from San Francisco to Dayton
Moving from San Francisco, CA to Dayton, OH typically costs $4,000–$8,100 with full-service movers for a 2–3 bedroom home.
The price ranges below are estimates for a 2,370-mile move from San Francisco to Dayton, based on moveBuddha pricing data as of Mar 16, 2026. Pricing is updated monthly to reflect seasonality and market changes.
Studio / 1 bedroom
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2-3 bedrooms
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4+ bedrooms
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Recent moving quotes for similar moves
- American Van Lines recently quoted $3,934 for a 1 bedroom (small) using professional movers.
- Colonial Van Lines recently quoted $4,496 for a 2 bedroom using professional movers.
- Roadway Moving recently quoted $3,095 for a studio apartment using professional movers.
1 Bedroom (small)
Feb 18, 2026
2 Bedrooms
Feb 12, 2026
Studio apartment
Feb 11, 2026
5+ Bedrooms
Feb 09, 2026
5+ Bedrooms
Feb 03, 2026
1 Bedroom (small)
Jan 25, 2026
3 Bedrooms
Jan 08, 2026
2 Bedrooms
Jan 06, 2026
1 Bedroom (small)
Dec 21, 2025
5+ Bedrooms
Dec 12, 2025
Major factors affecting moving costs from San Francisco to Dayton
Your total cost will depend on:
- Move size: The cost of your move depends on how much you’re bringing. A one-bedroom from San Francisco to Dayton might be as low as $2,800, while a four-bedroom could reach $13,300.
- When you move: Moving in summer often costs more, since it’s the busiest season for movers in San Francisco.
- DIY moves vs. full-service help: Truck rentals cost less — around $1,500 to $4,300 — but you’ll handle all the labor vs. letting professionals do it.
Moving the opposite route? We got you covered with our moving from Dayton, OH to San Francisco, CA guide.
Best San Francisco to Dayton movers by type
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Best professional movers from San Francisco to Dayton
When it comes to handling your interstate move from San Francisco to Dayton, entrusting professionals with the details is often the best decision. Full-service movers are equipped to manage everything, allowing you to concentrate on settling into your new place.
Want a deeper breakdown of the top long-distance movers? See our best interstate movers guide.
- Safeway Moving: 4.9 out of 5 stars
- American Van Lines: 4.9 out of 5 stars
- Allied Van Lines: 4.2 out of 5 stars
- Mayzlin Relocation: 4.8 out of 5 stars
- North American Van Lines: 4.8 out of 5 stars
Best overall value
How we chose the best CA→OH movers
moveBuddha's expert team analyzed moving rates from 372 California movers and listed the top movers based on customer satisfaction, reviews, and cost.
- Customer satisfaction (40%): The organization reliably provides services punctually, maintains clear communication, and stays within the anticipated budget.
- Dispute resolution (20%): Since mistakes are inevitable in moving, we value movers that accept responsibility and work hard to correct issues when they occur.
- Industry reputation (15%): The organization is recognized in the industry and takes part in professional gatherings and associations.
- Online reputation (15%): The company’s reputation online is supported by a well-maintained website and prompt, professional engagement with customer questions.
- Service options (10%): We look for companies with a deep breadth of services including full packing, storage, specialty item handling, and expedited delivery.
Here is our full moving company rating methodology.
What to know before moving from San Francisco to Dayton
Many movers find Dayton easier on the wallet than San Francisco - roughly 58% less for singles and 57% less for families.
Monthly basics average $1,593 for one person in Dayton versus $3,781 in San Francisco. For a family of four, it's $3,788 compared with $8,717.
See the cost breakdown below to pinpoint where the savings add up:
| San Francisco | Dayton | |
|---|---|---|
| Average 1 BR rent | $3,259 | $1,192 |
| Average 3 BR rent | $5,475 | $1,683 |
| Average home value | $1,241,003 | $135,815 |
| Average income (per capita) | $136,689 | $62,673 |
| Cost of living (single) | $3,781 | $1,593 |
| Cost of living (family of four) | $8,717 | $3,788 |
| Unemployment rate | 5.4% | 6.8% |
| Sales tax | 8.63% | 7.5% |
| State income tax | 13.3% | 3.5% |
- Good news! When moving to Dayton from San Francisco, you'll benefit from rent being an estimated 72% less, allowing for a more relaxed budget.
- With home prices being nearly 89% cheaper in Dayton, your mortgage budget will remain the same without any significant changes.
- Be sure to look over your budget before making the move. The average income is about 54% lower in Dayton than in San Francisco.
- Prepare to enjoy reduced routine costs such as groceries, fuel, and utilities in Dayton. The cost of living for a single person is 58% less compared to San Francisco.
- Relocating to Dayton could provide savings on routine expenses for your family, including transportation, utilities, and groceries. The cost of living for a family is 57% lower than in San Francisco.
- The unemployment rate in Dayton exceeds that of San Francisco by about 26%, resulting in a larger pool of potential workers and thus more hiring competition.
- Sales taxes are 13% lower in Dayton than San Francisco, a factor that could decrease expenditure on taxable items if your consumption is higher.
- Income taxes are 74% lower in Ohio than in California. Lower income tax rates mean less money is withheld from your paycheck, giving you more flexibility to save, invest, or cover everyday expenses.
Take a detailed look at how everyday expenses stack up between San Francisco and Dayton, from monthly bills to routine purchases:
| Living Expense | San Francisco | Dayton |
|---|---|---|
| Basic utilities | $229.35 | $200.37 |
| Cell phone plan | $62.91 | $44.17 |
| Dozen eggs | $5.91 | $3.02 |
| Loaf of bread | $5.06 | $2.61 |
| Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) | $25.00 | $15.00 |
| Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) | $125.00 | $57.50 |
| Gym membership | $99.96 | $33.34 |
- Basic utilities tend to be more expensive in San Francisco than in Dayton.
- Cell phone plans typically cost more in San Francisco than in Dayton.
- Eggs cost more in San Francisco than in Dayton.
- Bread is more expensive in San Francisco than in Dayton.
- A quick meal tends to cost more in San Francisco than in Dayton.
- A mid-range dinner for two is pricier in San Francisco than in Dayton.
- Gym memberships cost more in San Francisco than in Dayton.
How life is different in San Francisco vs. Dayton
| San Francisco | Dayton | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 808,988 | 137,644 |
| Transportation score | 10 | 6 |
| Walkability score | 99 | 45 |
| Bike friendliness score | 99 | 47 |
| Crime index | 61.41 | 4.0 |
| Safety index | 38.59 | 40.68 |
| Air quality | Moderate | Moderate |
- Dayton's population is about 83% less than San Francisco.
- Dayton's public transportation score of 6 out of 10 is lower than San Francisco's score of 10.
- Dayton is less walkable than San Francisco with a score of 45 out of 100 vs San Francisco's 99 out of 100.
- Dayton has a bike-friendliness score of 47 out of 100, which means it isn't as accessible or safe for cyclists as San Francisco, which has a score of 99.
- Dayton's crime rate is lower than San Francisco with a score of 4.0 compared to San Francisco's 61.41. This means that Dayton neighborhoods are safer than 4.0% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and San Francisco neighborhoods are safer than 61.41%.
- Dayton and San Francisco have a similar safety level, with scores of 40.68 and 38.59.
- Air quality in Dayton is Moderate, and in San Francisco it's Moderate.
Other things to consider for your San Francisco to Dayton move
- HOA rules: To keep things running smoothly, make sure you're familiar with any HOA or community moving policies before the big day.
- Elevator reservation: If there is an elevator in your building, it's a good idea to secure a reservation before your moving day.
- Truck parking permits: Research parking requirements in your destination city to ensure your truck won’t run into restrictions.
- State licensing: Although a local license is not required in Ohio, make sure the moving company you’ll be hiring is registered with U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT). To verify if you’re dealing with a legal and licensed mover, you may ask them their USDOT registration number. Make sure the moving company you use has a license before hiring.
- State regulator: You can check the status of a Ohio moving license through the state's public utilities commission.
- Moving Permits: You won't need a moving permit in Ohio, though it's smart to double-check any local parking restrictions ahead of your move.
- Change of address: We recommend submitting your USPS change of address form at least one week before your move to ensure your mail gets forwarded to Dayton without delay. You can select your official move date when completing the form. Start the process here.
- Moving company insurance: State laws differ on mover insurance. Opt for cost-free Released Value Protection from movers, offering minimal coverage with a maximum liability of 60 cents per pound per article. For comprehensive coverage, explore alternatives with your chosen moving company or consider a third-party insurance provider.
- Moving checklist: Our moving checklist will help you have the peace of mind that you've got everything covered.
Where to live in Dayton
Ready to relocate to Gem City? Here are some of the top neighborhoods to consider in Dayton.
Best neighborhoods for singles
- Oakwood
- Centerville
- Springboro
- Five Points
- Bellbrook
Best neighborhoods for families
- Downtown
- Webster Station
- South Park
- Oregon District
- Shroyer Park
- Five Oaks
- Gratton Hill
Things to do in Dayton
Now that you've made the move to Ohio, it's the perfect time to explore Dayton. From local hotspots to hidden gems, there's something to enjoy for every lifestyle:
- Arts and culture: Cultural attractions in Dayton include museums and art centers like the National Museum of the US Air Force, America's Packard Museum - The Citizens Motorcar Co., Boonshoft Museum of Discovery, and Dayton International Peace Museum.
- Outdoor recreation: Outdoor lovers will appreciate Dayton Aviation Heritage National Historical Park, Carriage Hill MetroPark, RiverScape MetroPark, and Wegerzyn Gardens MetroPark, along with many other spots perfect for walking, cycling, and fresh air adventures.
- Sports: Catch a live game and cheer on the home team at an Dayton Dragons (Baseball-Midwest League)Wright State Raiders (Horizon League) game.
FAQ
When is the best time to move from San Francisco to Dayton?
Spring and fall are the ideal times to move from San Francisco to Dayton. You'll benefit from more comfortable weather and avoid the higher prices that come with peak moving season in San Francisco.
When is the cheapest time to move from San Francisco to Dayton?
With many people choosing to move from San Francisco to Dayton in spring or fall, winter moves often come with better rates. Take a look at our moving discounts guide to find out how to save.
How long does a move from San Francisco to Dayton take?
Covering 2,370 miles, the move from San Francisco, CA to Dayton, OH typically takes seven to 18 days. Some San Francisco movers may offer faster options, and if your timing is flexible, storage services in Dayton can help bridge the gap.
Do movers in San Francisco offer any discounts?
Many do — and the types of discounts available can help you cut costs. 2 movers in San Francisco offer AAA member savings.
Because offers change, confirm details with your mover to make sure you’re getting the most out of available deals.
How many movers in San Francisco can handle specialty items for my move to Dayton?
Specialty moving services aren’t offered by every company. In San Francisco, 70 movers can handle pianos. 63 offer antique moving services. Compared to the rest of CA, there are 298 piano movers and 229 antique movers, while nationwide the numbers are 2,296 and 1,463 respectively.
If you need these services, it’s best to book early — availability can be limited, especially during peak moving months.
