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($954) Movers From Los Angeles to San Francisco, CA

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Estimated cost & time: The average cost to move 381 miles from Los Angeles to San Francisco ranges from $1,714 to $4,990 for professional movers, though can be less expensive going more DIY. Expect the trip to take about one–four days. Final costs vary by distance, date, home size, and whether you go DIY or hire movers.
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Best movers from Los Angeles to San Francisco

Best overall value
Safeway Moving Logo Safeway Moving
checkmark Best overall value
checkmark Veteran owned
checkmark Portion to charity
4.9
  • checkmarkBest overall value
  • checkmarkVeteran owned
  • checkmarkPortion to charity
American Van Lines Logo American Van Lines
checkmark Certified crews
checkmark Flat-rate pricing
checkmark Family-owned
4.5
  • checkmarkCertified crews
  • checkmarkFlat-rate pricing
  • checkmarkFamily-owned
North American Van Lines Logo North American Van Lines
checkmark 1,800 trucks
checkmark Storage available
checkmark Customized moving plans
4.5
  • checkmark1,800 trucks
  • checkmarkStorage available
  • checkmarkCustomized moving plans
Allied Van Lines Logo Allied Van Lines
checkmark Specialty packing services
checkmark White-glove reputation
checkmark 80+ years’ experience
4.8
  • checkmarkSpecialty packing services
  • checkmarkWhite-glove reputation
  • checkmark80+ years’ experience
Mayzlin Relocation Logo Mayzlin Relocation
checkmark Family owned
checkmark East coast focus
checkmark Affordable pricing
4.9
  • checkmarkFamily owned
  • checkmarkEast coast focus
  • checkmarkAffordable pricing
Professional Icon
Professional
Container Icon
Container
Rental Truck Icon
Rental truck
Freight Icon
Labor-only
Safeway Moving
checkmark Best overall value
checkmark Veteran owned
checkmark Portion to charity
American Van Lines
checkmark Certified crews
checkmark Flat-rate pricing
checkmark Family-owned
North American Van Lines
checkmark 1,800 trucks
checkmark Storage available
checkmark Customized moving plans
Allied Van Lines
checkmark Specialty packing services
checkmark White-glove reputation
checkmark 80+ years’ experience
Mayzlin Relocation
checkmark Family owned
checkmark East coast focus
checkmark Affordable pricing

Estimated cost to move from Los Angeles to San Francisco

These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 381-mile move from Los Angeles to San Francisco, CA, using pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Nov 04, 2025. moveBuddha aggregates thousands of verified pricing data points from movers across the country and refreshes them each month to capture seasonal shifts and market changes. Your actual cost can differ based on move size, add-on services, parking or access issues, fuel prices, and timing. We recommend getting quotes from several companies to understand your true price.
Studio Icon

Studio / 1 bedroom

  • Moving Company $1,083 – $3,592
  • Moving Container $902 – $1,539
  • Rental Truck $344 – $664
Two Three Bed Icon

2-3 bedrooms

  • Moving Company $1,714 – $4,990
  • Moving Container $1,153 – $2,206
  • Rental Truck $359 – $787
Four Bed Icon

4+ bedrooms

  • Moving Company $2,830 – $6,911
  • Moving Container $1,423 – $2,897
  • Rental Truck $442 – $880
Recent Moving Price Estimates
The following are real, anonymized quotes requested by moveBuddha readers in the past 48 hours. Prices change with dates and availability; use these as a ballpark, not a guarantee.
American Van Lines
Manhattan Beach, CA San Francisco, CA
Studio apartment
Oct 08, 2025
PODS
South Gate, CA Albany, CA
1 Bedroom (small)
Sep 10, 2025
Safeway Moving
San Gabriel, CA Oakland, CA
3 Bedrooms
Sep 09, 2025
1-800-Pack-Rat
Willowbrook, CA Burlingame, CA
2 Bedrooms
Sep 04, 2025
Mayzlin Relocation
South San Jose Hills, CA Berkeley, CA
1 Bedroom (small)
Sep 01, 2025
Allied Van Lines
Del Aire, CA Pinole, CA
5+ Bedrooms
Aug 19, 2025
United Van Lines
Long Beach, CA Sausalito, CA
Studio apartment
Aug 17, 2025
Colonial Van Lines
Los Alamitos, CA Corte Madera, CA
5+ Bedrooms
Aug 13, 2025
Roadway Moving
Rosemead, CA Cherryland, CA
1 Bedroom (large)
Aug 07, 2025
BLVD Moving
Bell Gardens, CA Ashland, CA
Studio apartment
Jul 27, 2025

Moving the opposite route? We got you covered with our moving from San Francisco to Los Angeles guide.

Local moving companies in Los Angeles

Picking one of the 355 local movers in California for your Los Angeles to San Francisco relocation can take the stress out of moving. Local movers know the region well, provide tailored services, and handle everything from packing and loading to transporting your belongings so your move is quicker and smoother from start to finish.

  1. Seka Moving: 4.7 out of 5 stars
  2. Rigo’s Moving Company Inc: 4.64 out of 5 stars
  3. Sterling Van Lines: 4.7 out of 5 stars
  4. NorthStar Moving Company : 4.52 out of 5 stars
  5. SOS Moving, LLC: 4.56 out of 5 stars
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
88.2% of all reviews were positive
11.8% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Seka Moving receives high praise for delivering professional, careful, and efficient moves, according to 88% of analyzed feedback. Customers frequently mention polite staff, careful handling of belongings, quick and smooth processes, and genuinely helpful crew members. Many note that moves finished ahead of schedule, and damage-free delivery is a strong trend. Clients appreciate Seka’s responsive communication and flexibility, making relocation much easier and less stressful compared to other movers. While most feedback highlights reliable performance, some negative input mentions incidents of damaged items, unsatisfactory complaint handling, and at times, unprofessional behavior. These issues contrast sharply with the positive experiences, but are relatively rare—only 12% of reviews. Seka stands out as a leading choice in the moving industry for professionalism and diligence, though customers facing problems report dissatisfaction with how disputes are resolved.
Get a Quote (323) 483-4288

Company Info

State license #: 0192497

Years in Business: 7

DOT #: 3014539

Alternate Names: Seka Moving Corporation

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Grandfather clocks
  • Crating
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Pay by money order
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
79.7% of all reviews were positive
19.5% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Move without the headache—most feedback for Rigo’s Moving Company highlights fast, polite service, and movers who treat customers’ belongings with respect. Out of 522 reviews, almost 80% of clients offered positive input, more than is typical for moving companies. People value how efficiently teams load and unload, the professionalism of movers, and their careful approach to furniture and fragile items. Staff routinely communicate well and work quickly to reduce stress during the move. Yet, some customers call out issues, especially regarding damages to furniture or property, unexpected fees, and crews arriving late. A few also mention being charged for unworked hours. Compared to other movers, Rigo’s stands out for its reliability and strong work ethic, but should improve on punctuality and handling claims to give customers peace of mind. Most who used Rigo’s would recommend the service and use it again, but caution others to clarify policies and extra charges before hiring.
Get a Quote (323) 519-2845

Company Info

State license #: 0191663

Years in Business: 11

DOT #: 3075110

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
84.5% of all reviews were positive
13.5% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Sterling Van Lines earns consistent praise for professionalism, careful handling, strong communication, efficient service, and competitive rates. Most feedback highlights that movers are polite, possessions arrive safely, and jobs are finished promptly. On the other hand, the company receives criticism for missed delivery estimates, delayed arrivals, and occasional lost or missing items. A few customers report lack of communication or difficulty getting updates. Compared to competitors, Sterling stands out for specializing in small moves, responsive support, and reliable pricing, but may miss the mark on punctuality and resolving claims promptly. Out of 362 reviews analyzed, 84.5% were positive, showing Sterling Van Lines is trusted by most clients for careful moves at a fair price, though some experience logistical hiccups or delays.
Get a Quote (866) 266-8751

Company Info

State license #: 0189566

Years in Business: 33

DOT #: 568254

Alternate Names: Sterling Van Lines, Inc.

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Grandfather clocks
  • Crating
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Safes
  • Pay by money order
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
92.3% of all reviews were positive
6.0% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Customers call NorthStar Moving Company a standout in the moving industry, praising efficiency, careful handling, professionalism, quick process, and communication. Out of 1,215 reviews, 92% gave positive input. Customers frequently thank staff for protecting their belongings, arriving promptly, and making stressful transitions much easier. Rates are seen as competitive or a good value, especially compared to other movers who charge more or damage items. Communication with office staff and movers is often highlighted as a reassurance during stressful moves, with efficient booking and helpful support being noted advantages. Negative feedback appears in only 6% of responses, with the biggest concerns being damaged items, higher-than-expected charges, and some delayed arrivals or deliveries. A few customers experienced discrepancies between estimates and final pricing, or had items lost or mishandled. Others mentioned follow-up to resolve issues but found the claims process or communication for resolution challenging. NorthStar earns its reputation by consistently going above and beyond for most customers, solving moving day obstacles, and delivering quick, safe service at fair prices. Compared to many moving operations, NorthStar offers greater reliability, more careful crews, and much better results in both local and long-distance jobs. Customers said they’d continue to choose NorthStar, while advising others to keep an eye on pricing details and final inventory. The overwhelmingly positive feedback positions this company as a top choice in professional moving services.
Get a Quote (213) 622-7767

Company Info

State license #: 0182466

Years in Business: 7

DOT #: 1836576

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
93.8% of all reviews were positive
5.2% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Moving day made easy—most customers say SOS Moving, LLC delivers fast, careful, and professional service. Out of 1,590 reviews analyzed, 93.8% were positive, highlighting efficient moves, careful handling, polite staff, quick process, and clear communication. Many praised the team for protecting belongings and working quickly, even with last-minute bookings or complex jobs. Customers often mention that movers are friendly, organized, and responsive, making the process less stressful than with other companies. On the downside, a small number of reviews (5.2%) report damaged or lost items, unprofessional conduct, or mishandling, especially in more challenging moves. Some negative feedback also points to issues with complaint resolution and pressure to leave positive reviews. Neutral feedback (1.1%) typically notes minor damages or communication gaps but also mentions that management responds to concerns. Compared to other moving companies, SOS stands out for speed, care, and reliability, but customers should clarify expectations for special items and follow up on any issues promptly.
Get a Quote (909) 324-5535

Company Info

State license #: 0192140

Years in Business: 5

DOT #: 3398018

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Safes
  • Pay by credit card

Cost to move from Los Angeles to San Francisco

The table below shows average moving costs from Los Angeles to San Francisco. We’ve categorized pricing by home size and type of service for easy side-by-side comparison.

Move size Moving company Moving container Rental
truck
Studio / 1 bedroom $954 – $3,144 $631 – $1,467 $358 – $645
2 – 3 bedrooms $1,714 – $4,990 $1,153 – $2,206 $359 – $787
4+ bedrooms $2,830 – $6,911 $1,423 – $2,897 $442 – $880
*The prices shown are rough estimates for a 381-mile move from Los Angeles to San Francisco, informed by moveBuddha pricing data as of Nov 04, 2025. moveBuddha collects thousands of verified price points nationwide and updates the dataset monthly to mirror seasonal changes and market trends. Your final cost can change due to move size, add-ons, parking/access limitations, fuel rates, and schedule. We suggest comparing several mover quotes for the most accurate pricing.

Cost to hire movers from Los Angeles to San Francisco

Hiring movers for a studio or one-bedroom home from Los Angeles to San Francisco typically runs between $954 and $3,144. A two- to three-bedroom move from Los Angeles to San Francisco usually ranges from $1,714 to $4,990, while a larger move from Los Angeles to San Francisco often costs $2,830 to $6,911.

Cost of moving containers from Los Angeles to San Francisco

For moves from Los Angeles to San Francisco using moving containers, a small move usually costs $631–$1,467. Two- to three-bedroom moves often fall between $1,153 and $2,206. Larger (four-bedroom+) moves typically range from $1,423 to $2,897. Learn more about PODS cost.

Check out the most affordable moving container companies for your move in California.

Cost of renting a moving truck from Los Angeles to San Francisco

Opting for a rental truck from Los Angeles to San Francisco typically saves the most money, but you’ll need to handle both the driving and the loading/unloading.

Moving a studio or one-bedroom apartment in a rental truck will cost around $358 to $645. A two to three-bedroom move will cost $359 to $787, and moving a home with four or more bedrooms from Los Angeles to San Francisco costs around $442 to $880.

These quotes include the estimated fuel cost.

Considerations when moving from Los Angeles to San Francisco

Cost of living: Los Angeles vs. San Francisco

The cost of living in Los Angeles vs. San Francisco isn’t just about housing costs. We’ll lay out everything that matters, including rent, home prices, average income, everyday spending, and local job trends, so you can easily see how life in San Francisco compares to what you’re used to in Los Angeles.

Check out how the two cities compare so you know what to expect before you relocate:

Los Angeles San Francisco
Average rent cost $2,960 $3,250
Average home cost $2,368,088 $1,241,003
Average income (per capita) $74,993 $136,689
Cost of living (single person) $5,833 $3,781
Cost of living (family of 4) $12,720 $8,717
Unemployment rate 10.6% 5.4%
Average Sales Tax 9.5% 8.63%
  • Rent prices in San Francisco are 10% higher than in Los Angeles, meaning a larger portion of your income may go toward housing, leaving less for savings or other expenses.
  • Home prices in San Francisco are 48% lower than in Los Angeles. That means you’ll have an easier time buying a home, locking in an affordable mortgage, and still having money left over for what matters most to you.
  • You could enjoy greater earning potential and improved financial stability in San Francisco, where average income is 82% higher than in Los Angeles — especially if your salary is on par with the local average.
  • The cost of living for a single person in San Francisco is 35% lower than in Los Angeles, meaning you’ll likely have more financial flexibility, allowing for increased savings, spending, or investment opportunities.
  • Good news, living costs are 31% lower in San Francisco than in Los Angeles. That means your money goes further, giving you more room in your budget and a chance to boost your quality of life after the move.
  • The unemployment rate in San Francisco is 49% lower than in Los Angeles. This points to a healthier job market, more openings, and better economic stability in your new city.
  • With sales taxes 9% lower in San Francisco than Los Angeles, everyday expenses like meals, clothing, and electronics could be easier on your wallet.

If you typically live on $3,000 a month in Los Angeles, you’ll need about $1,950 to enjoy a similar lifestyle in San Francisco.

How life is different in Los Angeles vs. San Francisco

Before you move, check out how life in San Francisco measures up to Los Angeles. You can easily compare the weather, cost of living, politics, safety, and population side by side. This comparison makes it easier to tell which city better fits your lifestyle and needs.

Los Angeles San Francisco
Population 3,820,914 808,988
Political leaning Democratic 64-31 Democratic 85-13
Summer high 84ºF 67ºF
Winter low 46ºF 46ºF
Annual rain 16″ 25″
Annual snow 0″ 0″
Crime index 53.81 61.41
  • You’ll notice that San Francisco has roughly 79% fewer people than Los Angeles. Smaller cities usually mean more peace of mind, more space, and lower living costs, though you may find yourself missing a few big-city conveniences.
  • During the last presidential election, both Los Angeles and San Francisco supported the Democratic candidate.
  • In San Francisco, summer highs top out around 67°F, lower than Los Angeles’s 84°F. Relocating here means milder summers and a more relaxed pace outdoors.
  • In the coldest months, you’ll find similar low temperatures in both Los Angeles and San Francisco—with winter lows around 46°F and 46°F.
  • San Francisco typically gets more rainfall than Los Angeles, with an annual average of 25 inches compared to just Los Angeles’s 16 inches.
  • Both Los Angeles and San Francisco receive virtually no snowfall each year, so you won’t have to plan for winter weather in either city.
  • San Francisco shows a higher crime rate than Los Angeles, with index scores of 61.41 compared to 53.81.

Things to do in San Francisco

Whether you prefer to be in the great outdoors, soak up some culture, or catch a live game, Los Angeles has plenty to offer:

Museums in San Francisco

  • Exploratorium
  • California Academy of Sciences
  • Walt Disney Family Museum
  • San Francisco Museum of Modern Art
  • Legion of Honor

Parks in San Francisco

  • Golden Gate Park
  • Presidio of San Francisco
  • Mission Dolores Park
  • Crissy Field
  • Yerba Buena Gardens

Sports teams in San Francisco

  • San Francisco 49ers (NFL)
  • San Francisco Giants (MLB)
  • Golden State Warriors (NBA)

Universities in San Francisco

  • City College of San Francisco
  • San Francisco State University
  • University of California, Hastings College of the Law
  • University of California, San Francisco
  • Academy of Art University

FAQ

How much does it cost to hire a professional moving company from Los Angeles to San Francisco?

Shipping furniture from Los Angeles to San Francisco with a moving company typically costs between $954 and $3,144. If you’re relocating a two- or three-bedroom home, expect to pay anywhere from $1,714 to $4,990. For a four-bedroom home or larger, prices generally fall between $2,830 and $6,911 for that same route.

How much are moving container companies from Los Angeles to San Francisco?

If you’re planning a move from Los Angeles to San Francisco and thinking about using moving containers, here’s a quick look at typical costs: For a studio or one-bedroom, prices usually fall between $631 and $1,467. For a two- or three-bedroom home, expect to pay from $1,153 to $2,206. Have an even larger house? Moves for four- or five-bedroom homes typically range from $1,423 to $2,897.

How much is a moving truck from Los Angeles to San Francisco?

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 $358 and $645. Moving a larger apartment? Costs typically fall between $359 and $787. For four-bedroom homes or bigger going from Los Angeles to San Francisco, truck rentals usually range from $442 up to $880.

How far in advance should I book Los Angeles-to-San Francisco movers?

To make your move from Los Angeles to San Francisco as stress-free as possible, lock in your movers at least two months before your big day. If you’re planning a summer move, aim for three months ahead, because spots fill up fast! Booking early not only boosts your chances of getting the date you want, but you might also score a better deal since many companies offer early-bird discounts for customers who plan ahead.

What time of year is the cheapest to move to San Francisco?

The cheapest time of year to move to San Francisco is between early October and late April. This period is outside of the moving industry’s peak season (May–September), which means demand — and therefore pricing — will typically be lower. A majority of U.S. moves happen between May and August, so staying outside the busy summer months will help you save money.

Learn more about your move to San Francisco

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