Top Irvine to Oakland, CA Moving Companies

Local moving companies in Irvine

Choosing a local mover for your Irvine to Oakland move in California makes everything easier. With their local know-how, these pros offer personalized service and take care of packing, loading, and transporting your stuff, so your move goes faster and feels a lot less stressful.

Best California Movers: 4.9 out of 5 stars
Meathead Movers: 4.8 out of 5 stars
Terry Moving and Storage Inc.: 4.86 out of 5 stars
Maison Moving: 4.72 out of 5 stars
Laaks Moving Services: 4.72 out of 5 stars

Best California Movers

15 Hubble, Irvine, CA 92591 US

99% of all reviews were positive

1% of reviews were negative

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Review Analysis

Moving perfection is rare, but Best California Movers comes close. Out of 1,177 pieces of customer feedback, over 98% are positive. Customers highlight the company's efficient service, careful handling, quick moving process, professional staff, and great communication.

Moves are completed swiftly without sacrificing care, and teams are consistently polite and attentive. Transparent pricing and quick response times also set this company apart from many others. On the flip side, a small number of people mention issues like item damage, inaccurate estimates leading to unexpected costs, and slow resolution to complaints. While most customers found pricing and final charges accurate, those few negative experiences reflect the main risks found in the industry—miscommunication, claim delays, and the rare mishandling of belongings. Compared to typical movers, Best California Movers receives far fewer complaints about property damage and shows higher reliability and responsiveness. The feedback shows why so many recommend them for hassle-free, well-managed moves.

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Company Info

State license #: T0192283

Pricing: $109/hr

Years in Business: 6

DOT #: 3489907

Alternate Names: Best California Movers & Storage, An Moving Forward

Services Offered

Local moves
Interstate moves
Packing
Unpacking
Offices
Crating
Storage
Pay by credit card
Deposit Required

Meathead Movers

2430 South Grand Avenue, Santa Ana, CA 92705 US

77% of all reviews were positive

20% of reviews were negative

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Review Analysis

Meathead Movers stands out for hustle, professionalism, and customer care. Out of 596 feedback entries, 76.7% reflected positive experiences, far surpassing most moving services. Customers consistently mention the professional and polite attitude of staff, quick and efficient moves, careful handling of belongings, and clear communication throughout the process.

On the other hand, some input details damage to furniture or property, unexpected costs, and occasional delays with arrival or delivery. Still, the frequency of efficient and careful service notably outweighs these issues. Based on customer input, Meathead Movers sets a higher standard for moving companies by maintaining reliable service, though attention to damage prevention and transparent pricing could be further improved to match their strong reputation.

Get a Quote (949) 485-7883

Company Info

State license #: 189849

Years in Business: 27

DOT #: 921143

Alternate Names: Meat Head Movers Inc, Meathead Movers Inc

Services Offered

Local moves
Interstate moves
Packing
Unpacking
Offices
Storage
Pay by cash
Pay by credit card

Terry Moving and Storage Inc.

25958 Commercentre Dr, Lake Forest, CA 92630 US

94% of all reviews were positive

5% of reviews were negative

Read Reviews

Review Analysis

Word travels fast when a moving company stands out, and Terry Moving and Storage Inc. has built a strong reputation with feedback from 419 customers—nearly 94% of whom share positive input. Customers consistently praise the speed and efficiency of service, the professionalism and courtesy of the moving team, and especially their careful handling of valuable items. Staff members receive high marks for their great communication, making the moving process less stressful.

Common negatives reported include occasional damage to belongings, unexpected fees or pricing differences, and some gaps in communication during problem situations. While some reviewers faced issues with lost items or claims handling, these incidents are much less frequent than is typical for the industry. Compared to most moving companies, Terry Moving and Storage Inc. is viewed as more reliable and responsive, with a reputation for organization and genuinely helpful crews. The significant volume of positive input confirms this company sets a high bar for moving and storage providers.

Get a Quote (949) 587-9490

Company Info

State license #: 189603

Years in Business: 28

DOT #: 649215

Alternate Names: Terry Moving and Storage Inc, Richards Moving Company, Orange County Storage Movers

Services Offered

Local moves
Interstate moves
Packing
Unpacking
Offices
Pianos
Pool Tables
Storage
Fragile-only packing
Pay by credit card

Maison Moving

1371 Santa Fe Dr., Tustin, CA 92780 US

84% of all reviews were positive

14% of reviews were negative

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Review Analysis

Word spreads fast about a moving company that gets the job done. Out of 293 customer reviews, Maison Moving earned high marks, with 84% giving glowing feedback. Customers repeatedly mention the efficiency, professionalism, and care shown by the movers, highlighting strong communication, timely arrivals, and careful handling of belongings.

Many found booking straightforward, pricing transparent, and crews helpful and polite. Moving day stresses were often eased by their quick, organized approach. Negative feedback, making up 14% of input, centered on damaged or missing items and rare delays or unprepared crews. Some clients were frustrated by the claims process or communication breakdowns after problems. Only 1% described neutral experiences, usually pointing out minor issues like unexpected fees or average service. Compared to others, Maison Moving stands out for its reliable, efficient service but could improve on accountability and claims handling when things go wrong.

Get a Quote (800) 832-5950

Company Info

State license #: 0190726

Years in Business: 17

DOT #: 76628

Alternate Names: Orange County Movers Inc, College Boys Moving and Storage of Orange County, Affordable Moving and Storage of Orange County

Services Offered

Local moves
Interstate moves
International moves
Packing
Unpacking
Offices
Pianos
Art
Antiques
Crating
Storage
Pay by credit card

Laaks Moving Services

71 Mission, Irvine, CA 92620 US

92% of all reviews were positive

8% of reviews were negative

Read Reviews

Review Analysis

Moving day just got a lot smoother for most Laaks customers. Analyzing 139 feedback entries, 92% shared positive experiences. Clients most often praised the professionalism and politeness of the crew, outstanding efficiency, careful attention to belongings, quick work, and highly affordable rates.

Friendly staff and consistent reliability helped set Laaks apart from typical movers. Some customers still encountered problems, most notably late arrivals, lost time due to poor planning, or damage during the move. A few felt charges weren’t clearly explained. Despite these issues, the overwhelmingly favorable input makes Laaks stand out in an industry where delays or damaged items are common. New clients can expect a well-trained, attentive team, but should confirm details to avoid scheduling or billing surprises.

Get a Quote (877) 238-5141

Company Info

State license #: 0191604

Years in Business: 11

DOT #: 2995987

Services Offered

Local moves
Interstate moves
Packing
Unpacking
Offices
Pianos
Art
Antiques
Crating
Shipment tracking
Storage
Safes
Pay by cash
Pay by credit card
Deposit Required

Considerations when moving from Irvine to Oakland

Cost of living: Irvine vs. Oakland

When comparing the cost of living between Irvine and Oakland, you need to look beyond housing prices. This section breaks down some key financial factors, including rent, home values, income, day-to-day expenses, and employment rates, to help you understand how life in Oakland stacks up against Irvine.

	Irvine	Oakland
Average rent cost	$4,000	$2,200
Average home value	$1,561,760	$736,156
Average income (per capita)	$114,027	$94,389
Cost of living (single person)	$9,167	$3,146
Cost of living (family of 4)	$18,000	$8,584
Unemployment rate	5.4%	4.5%

source: Zumper, Zillow, Numbeo

Rent in Oakland is roughly 45% less expensive than in Irvine. That leaves you with extra cash for savings, entertainment, or anything else you want to spend money on.
Home prices in Oakland are 52.9% lower than in Irvine. That means you’ll have an easier time getting into the housing market, scoring a more affordable mortgage, and having extra cash left over for what matters most.
Income in Oakland is 17.2% lower than in Irvine, which might mean you’ll need to watch your budget, especially if your income doesn’t keep pace with the cost of living.
Cost of living for one person in Oakland is 65.7% lower than in Irvine. You’ll likely have extra room in your budget, perfect for saving, spending, or investing.
If you’re relocating to Oakland, you’ll be glad to know the cost of living is 52.3% lower than in Irvine. That means you can stretch your budget further and possibly enjoy an even better quality of life after your move.
The unemployment rate in Oakland is 16.67% lower than in Irvine, which means you’ll find a stronger job market, more opportunities, and greater economic stability in your new city.

If you’re used to living on $3,000 a month in Irvine, you’d need roughly $1,029.56 to maintain the same lifestyle in Oakland.

How life is different in Irvine vs. Oakland

Before you move, take a look at how life compares in Irvine and Oakland. From weather and population to cost of living, politics, and safety, these factors can all impact your daily life. Use this side-by-side comparison to find out which city fits your lifestyle and priorities best.

	Oakland	Irvine
Population	440,646	307,670
Political leaning	Democratic 51-46	Democratic 49.8-48.3
Summer high	72ºF	82ºF
Winter low	44ºF	46ºF
Annual rain	24"	13"
Annual snow	0"	0"
Crime index	68.62	31.01

Irvine sources: US Census Bureau, 270TOWIN, BestPlaces
Oakland sources: Wikipedia, AllTransit, Walk Score, NeighborhoodScout, AirNow

Oakland has a population roughly 43% higher than Irvine. Relocating to a bigger city brings more people, possibilities, cultural experiences, and higher costs and a faster paced lifestyle. Whether that energizes or exhausts you all comes down to what you’re looking for.
In the most recent presidential race, both Irvine and Oakland leaned Democratic.
Summers in Oakland typically reach highs of 72°F, compared to Irvine where temperatures climb to 82°F. Relocating to a cooler place means you can enjoy a more comfortable, refreshing summer and spend less time worrying about staying cool.
In the coldest months, both Irvine and Oakland face similar winter lows—Irvine drops to 46ºF, while Oakland falls to 44ºF.
Oakland sees more rain each year than Irvine, averaging about 24 inches annually, while Irvine gets only 13 inches.
Both Irvine and Oakland get about the same amount of snow each year—Irvine averages 0 inches, while Oakland sees 0 inches annually.
Oakland has a higher crime index than Irvine, with scores of 68.62 and 31.01, respectively.

Things to do in Oakland

Craving adventure, lively culture, or some live sports action? You’ll find it all in Oakland.

Museums in Oakland

Oakland Museum of California
Chabot Space & Science Center
USS Potomac
Oakland Aviation Museum
African American Museum and Library
Blue Door Beads
Twomile Wines
Museum of Children's Art

Parks in Oakland

Redwood Regional Park
Joaquin Miller Park
East Bay Regional Park District
Lakeside Park and Garden Center
Piedmont Park
Roberts Regional Recreation Area
Martin Luther King Jr. Regional Shoreline
Middle Harbor Shoreline Park
Huckleberry Botanic Regional Preserve

Sports Teams in Oakland

Oakland Athletics (MLB)
Oakland Roots DC (USLC)

Universities in Oakland

Laney College
Merritt College
California College of the Arts (formerly the California College of Arts and Crafts)
Holy Names University (formerly Holy Names College)
Lincoln University
Patten University

FAQ

How much does it cost to hire a professional moving company from Irvine to Oakland?

If you’re hiring a professional moving company to get your stuff from Irvine to Oakland, expect to pay between $1,227 and $3,552 to move just a few items or a small bedroom. For a two- or three-bedroom place, prices usually run between $2,143 and $5,867. Moving a home with four or more bedrooms? You’re looking at anywhere from $3,563 up to $7,747 for the trip.

How much are moving container companies from Irvine to Oakland?

If you’re moving from Irvine to Oakland and considering moving containers, here’s a quick breakdown of what you might spend: For a studio or one-bedroom, costs typically range from $709 to $1,701. Two- and three-bedroom homes usually fall between $1,285 and $2,436. If you’re moving from a four- or five-bedroom home, expect prices to range from $1,668 to $3,272.

How much is a moving truck from Irvine to Oakland?

If you’re looking to save money, renting a moving truck is often the most budget-friendly choice. Keep in mind, though—you’ll need to handle both the driving and the heavy lifting yourself. To keep things transparent, we’ve factored estimated fuel costs into our pricing so you know exactly what to expect.

If you’re renting a truck for a studio or one-bedroom move, expect to pay between $397 and $797. Moving a larger apartment? Costs typically fall between $445 and $882. For four-bedroom homes or bigger going from Irvine to Oakland, truck rentals usually range from $580 up to $1,036.

How far in advance should I book Irvine-to-Oakland movers?

For a smooth move from Irvine to Oakland, book your movers at least two months in advance. If you’re moving during the busy summer months, try to secure your moving reservation three months ahead. Early booking not only increases your chances of getting your preferred date but can also help you snag lower rates. Some companies even throw in early-bird discounts when you reserve ahead of time.

What time of year is the cheapest to move to Oakland?

For the best deals on your move to Oakland, aim for a date between early October and late April. Skipping the busy May-to-September rush not only saves you money, but also helps you lock in better rates and more flexible scheduling.