Best overall value
Local moving companies in Oakland
- West Coast Moving Systems, Inc: 4.76 out of 5 stars
- NorthStar Moving Company : 4.72 out of 5 stars
- All City Moving and Storage: 4.66 out of 5 stars
- Pure Moving Company: 4.58 out of 5 stars
- Good Green Moving: 4.58 out of 5 stars
West Coast Moving Systems, Inc
rating
4.76 / 5
DOT #: 3071646
Years in Business: 18
745 85th Ave, Oakland, CA 94621 USMoving with West Coast Moving Systems means efficiency meets professionalismโover 96% of customer feedback is positive out of 635 reviews analyzed. Customers consistently highlight fast and organized service, courteous staff, careful handling of belongings, clear communication, and a streamlined moving process. Clients appreciate that movers are prompt, wrap and protect all items, and communicate thoroughly from scheduling to completion. Some feedback suggests opportunities for better handling of high-value items, clearer communication in complex situations, or avoiding unexpected charges, but such issues are rare. With overwhelmingly positive comments about helpful attitudes and reliability, West Coast Moving Systems stands out from competitors who frequently receive lower marks for damaged items or disorganized crews. This feedback points to a company that delivers quality and peace of mind at rates considered very reasonable for the quality of service. Those seeking careful, professional movers with responsive support can expect a top-tier experience here.
Review Profiles
Services Offered
Move Distances
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
Available services
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Art
- Crating
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Fragile-only packing
Additional Information
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
- DOT #: 3071646
- State license #: 0192456
Alternative Business Names
- West Coast Movers
- West Coast Moving Systems
NorthStar Moving Company
rating
4.72 / 5
DOT #: 1836576
Years in Business: 30
One Bush Plaza Bush St Suite B-182, San Francisco, CA 94104 USMoving dreams made easier: NorthStar Moving Company impresses with consistent high marks from more than 1,100 customer reviews, and more than 91% of that input is positive. Feedback repeatedly praises NorthStarโs efficient and friendly movers, careful handling of belongings, and prompt, open communication. Customers highlight quick moving processes, responsible care for fragile items, and smooth, stress-free experiences from booking to delivery. The price is regularly described as reasonable, and transparent quotes are common. When compared to other companies, NorthStar stands out for its professionalism and reliability. Some customers report issues such as damage to furniture, delayed arrival or delivery, or difficulties reaching customer service for status updates or claims. The most common negative feedback involves item damage, poor communication during or after moves, and occasional scheduling errors. While these issues are in the minority, prospective clients may want to clarify all details and ask specific questions about protection policies. NorthStar Moving consistently maintains better customer satisfaction rates than most competitors, making it a leading choice for efficient, careful, and responsive moving services.
Review Profiles
Services Offered
Move Distances
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
Available services
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Art
- Antiques
- Crating
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
Additional Information
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
- DOT #: 1836576
- State license #: 0182466
All City Moving and Storage
rating
4.66 / 5
DOT #: 2533823
Years in Business: 11
1951 Williams St, San Leandro, CA 94577 USMoving with All City means working with staff who are consistently described as professional, careful, and communicative. In 115 feedback entries examined, nearly 69% reflect a positive experience, notably better than many moving services. Customers point out the teamโs dedication to safe handling, clear updates, and efficient execution of difficult or large-scale moves. Clients frequently mention that team members treat belongings with respect and maintain professionalism during long, complicated interstate or international moves, building strong trust compared to similar companies. While customers appreciate transparent estimates and swift responses, a significant group, about a quarter, report damage to items, delays in delivery, and lack of follow-up or clear communicationโespecially in challenging cases such as cross-country moves, or where contractor crews were used. These issues include broken or lost items, late arrivals, or insufficient updates. Neutral feedback often highlights solid crews but notes unexpected charges or minor disorganization. For service seekers, All City stands out for its staff quality and task execution, yet potential clients should remain aware of risks related to handling and communication on complex jobs.
Review Profiles
Services Offered
Move Distances
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
Available services
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Art
- Antiques
- Crating
- Shipment tracking
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
Additional Information
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
- DOT #: 2533823
- State license #: 0191202
Alternative Business Names
- DL Capital LLC
- Zippy Shell Bay Area
- Zippy Shell Bay Area Moving & Storage
Pure Moving Company
rating
4.58 / 5
DOT #: 3207734
Years in Business: 11
401 Terry A Francois Blvd #110, San Francisco, CA 94158 USA standout among moving companies, Pure Moving Company consistently earns praise for efficiency, professionalism, and attention to detail. Input from 1,008 customers shows 97.6% positive feedback, making it one of the highest-rated moving services in the Bay Area. Clients highlight the teamโs quick, organized approach and their careful handling of belongings, often noting that nothing was damaged and furniture was wrapped thoroughly. Customers also appreciate clear communication before and during moves, as well as polite staff and easy booking. Some mention affordable, transparent rates compared to local competitors. Feedback reveals a small number of negative experiences, mainly focused on item damage, slow arrival, or inexperienced staff, although management often responds and resolves complaints promptly. Compared to other moving services, Pure Moving stands out for combining efficient work with care and professional service. Most report smooth, stress-free moves, with only rare setbacks. For those seeking a reliable Bay Area mover, Pure Moving Company sets a benchmark for quality.
Review Profiles
Services Offered
Move Distances
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
Available services
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Crating
- Storage
Additional Information
- Pay by credit card
- DOT #: 3207734
- State license #: 0191103
Alternative Business Names
- Pure Moving & Storage, Inc.
Good Green Moving
rating
4.58 / 5
DOT #: 2604063
Pricing: $70/hr
Years in Business: 12
1355 Market Street Suite 488, San Francisco, CA 94103 USGood Green Moving earns high marks for professionalism and efficiency, with nearly 89% of 341 customer feedback entries praising their staff's courtesy, clear communication, and careful handling of belongings. Customers frequently mention efficient service, stress-free moves, and quick, reliable crewsโtraits that set the company apart from many others in the industry. The reusable eco-friendly bins and transparent pricing also are widely appreciated. Negative feedback, making up about 11%, primarily centers on damaged items, poor follow-up from management, and late arrivals or missed time commitments. Some customers report unresolved complaints or lost belongings, especially with storage services. Compared to typical movers, Good Green Moving stands out for its positive staff interactions and above-average customer satisfaction, though a few reports of communication lapses and damaged property remind potential clients to clarify expectations for timing and claims handling.
Review Profiles
Services Offered
Move Distances
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
Available services
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Art
- Antiques
- Crating
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Fragile-only packing
Additional Information
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
- DOT #: 2604063
- State license #: 0191035
Alternative Business Names
- Green Move, Inc.
Key factors that influence moving costs from Oakland to Washington DC
What to know before moving from Oakland to Washington DC
Moving from Oakland to Washington DC comes with exciting new opportunities โ but also higher living costs. Since Washington DC is generally more expensive than Oakland, itโs important to plan ahead and budget carefully for the change.
Check out how the two cities compare so you know what to expect before you relocate:
| Oakland | Washington DC | |
|---|---|---|
| Average rent cost | $2,200 | $2,400 |
| Average home value | $736,156 | $594,337 |
| Average income (per capita) | $94,389 | $101,722 |
| Cost of living (single person) | $3,146 | $3,963 |
| Cost of living (family of 4) | $8,584 | $11,093 |
| Unemployment rate | 4.5% | 7.0% |
| Sales tax | 10.25% | 6.0% |
| State income tax | 13.3% | 5.75% |
- Rent prices in Washington DC are 9% higher than in Oakland, which means youโll have less money in your pocket each month.
-
In terms of homeownership, youโll be able to get more for your money in Washington DC.
Home prices in Washington DC are 19.3% lower than in Oakland. - Income in Washington DC is 7.8% higher than in Oakland, so you could earn more for doing the same job. The top employers in Washington DC include Department of Homeland Security, US Navy, and United States Postal Service.
- Be sure to budget for higher bills in Washington DC, since the cost of living for a single person in Washington DC is 26.0% higher than in Oakland. This includes routine expenses like utilities, groceries, clothing, and transportation.
- If youโre moving your family to Washington DC, keep in mind that your living expenses could increase. The cost of living for a family in Washington DC is 29.2% higher than in Oakland.
- The unemployment rate in Washington DC is 55.56% higher than in Oakland.
- Youโll spend less on retail and restaurants in Washington DC, since the cityโs sales taxes in Washington DC are 41.46% lower than in Oakland.
- One perk of moving to Washington DC is paying less in state income taxes, which are 56.77% lower than in Oakland.
To put this in perspective, you would need around $3,779.08 in Washington DC to maintain the same standard of life that you can have with $3,000.00 in Oakland.
How life is different in Oakland vs. Washington DC
| Washington DC | Oakland | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 705,749 | 440,646 |
| AllTransit Transportation Performance Score | 9 | 8 |
| Walkability score | 77 | 75 |
| Bike friendliness score | 70 | 65 |
| Crime Index | 60.37 | 68.62 |
| Safety Index | 39.63 | 31.38 |
| Air Quality | Good | Good |
- The population of Washington DC is about 60% greater than Oakland, so you may find more to see and do in your new surroundings. Of course, with more people can also come increased competition for jobs and housing.
- Washington DC offers better access to buses and trains than Oakland, based on public transportation ratings. Washington DC has a transit score of 9 out of 10 compared to 8 in Oakland. The higher the score, the more public transportation pickup and dropoff locations a city provides.
- Youโll find Washington DC to be about as walkable as Oakland. The two cities have similar walkability scores of 77 and 75 respectively out of 100 in terms of how close housing is to businesses, recreational facilities, and jobs.
- If cycling is your thing, Washington DC is considered more bike-friendly than Oakland in terms of designated lanes and connectivity and how many residents opt to commute on two wheels rather than by car. Washington DC has a bike-friendliness score of 70 out of 100, while Oakland is rated as 65 out of 100.
- Washington DC has a lower crime rate than Oakland based on scores of 60.37 and Oakland's 68.62, respectively. The crime index shows how safe a city is perceived to be. So, a lower score generally means less crime.
- You might find more confidence in your overall safety in Washington DC than in Oakland, based on Washington DCโs safety index of 39.63 versus 31.38 for Oakland. With this index, higher scores indicate more safety, particularly around how comfortable residents feel walking alone during the day and at night.
- The air quality in Washington DC and Oakland is generally the same (Good). Cities with good to moderate ratings have clean or acceptable air quality, with the possibility of small pollutants affecting people with certain health conditions like asthma. Anything beyond the moderate rate means increased impact on residents.
Other things to consider for your Oakland vs. Washington DC move
- Weather: Winters are cool to cold with light snow more common but heavy snow not uncommon, and summers are hot and humid. Spring and fall are mild to warm. Be sure to check your weather app to avoid heavy snowfall or high heat.
- HOA rules: Check ahead with any neighborhood or community rules on moving to ensure a smooth move.
- Elevator reservation: If your building has an elevator you'll want to check on how to reserve it for move day.
- Truck parking permits: Some cities require parking permits for large vehicles and moving trucks. Find out if you need any parking permits ahead of time.
- State licensing: Although a local license is not required in Maryland, make sure the moving company youโll be hiring is registered with U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT). To verify if youโre 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 verify a Maryland moving license and its status through the state's public utilities commission.
- Moving permits: Maryland does not require any moving permits, but it is helpful to check local parking restrictions before moving into the state.
- Change of address: We recommend submitting your change of address form with USPS at least a week prior to your move. You can set an official move date on the form and this way all of your mail will get properly forwarded to Washington DC. Get started here.
- Moving company insurance: Every state requires moving companies to carry different levels of insurance.In Alabama, Released Value Protection stands out as the most economical option, incurring no additional costs. Provided by movers at no extra charge, it offers minimal coverage at 60 cents per pound per article. For those seeking comprehensive coverage, it is advisable to consult with your chosen moving company for alternative options or explore third-party insurance providers.
- Moving checklist: Our moving checklist will help you have the peace of mind that you've got everything covered.
Where to live in Washington DC
Now that you've decided to make the move to "DC", these are the best neighborhoods to move to in Washington DC.
Best neighborhoods for singles
- Adams Morgan
- Capitol Hill
- Cleveland Park
- Foggy Bottom
- Logan Circle
Best neighborhoods for families
- AU-Tenleytown
- Chevy Chase
- Cleveland Park
- Georgetown
- The Palisades
Things to do in Washington DC
Now that you've made the move to Maryland, itโs the perfect time to explore Washington DC. From local hotspots to hidden gems, thereโs something to enjoy for every lifestyle:
- Arts and culture: Youโll find museums and cultural hubs throughout Washington DC, such as the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History, National Museum of African American History and Culture, National Gallery of Art, United States Holocaust Memorial Museum, and National Air and Space Museum.
- Outdoor recreation: The cityโs National Mall, National Gallery of Art - Sculpture Garden, Rock Creek Park, and Theodore Roosevelt Island Park โ along with other locations, ideal for trails, cycling, or enjoying the fresh air.
- Sports: Experience the energy of a live game and back the home team at an Washington Wizards (NBA), Washington Capitals (NHL), Washington Mystics (WNBA), or D.C. Untied (MLS) game.
FAQ
When is the best time to move from Oakland to Washington DC?
If you're flexible with timing, spring and fall are great seasons to move from Oakland to Washington DC. Youโll dodge the heat, the crowds, and the higher moving costs typical of peak season in Oakland.
When is the cheapest time to move from Oakland to Washington DC?
Because spring and fall moves from Oakland to Washington DC are so common, winter can be a great time to move if you're looking for lower prices. Read our moving discounts guide to see how.
How long does a move from Oakland to Washington DC take?
Covering 2,802 miles, the move from Oakland, CA to Washington DC, MD typically takes seven to 21 days. Some Oakland movers may offer faster options, and if your timing is flexible, storage services inWashington DC can help bridge the gap.
