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($1,231) Cost to Move From San Francisco, CA to Ann Arbor, MI

Easily compare and book your next move with moveBuddha
Estimated cost & time: Relocating 2,354 miles from San Francisco to Ann Arbor typically costs between $1,452 and $7,638. The trip is expected to last from seven–18 days. Costs depend on factors like distance, date, home size, and your choice between DIY or professional services.
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Best movers from San Francisco to Ann Arbor

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

Best movers by type

Professional Icon
Professional
Container Icon
Container
Rental Truck Icon
Rental Truck
Freight Icon
Labor Only

Best professional movers from San Francisco to Ann Arbor

Opting for a full-service mover can make your interstate move from San Francisco to Ann Arbor much easier by letting professionals manage the entire process. This choice allows you to focus on what matters most instead of the logistics of moving.

In San Francisco, there are 71 interstate moving companies that can assist you. Discover our top picks that ensure a relaxed and efficient move to Ann Arbor.

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
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
North American Van Lines
checkmark 1,800 trucks
checkmark Storage available
checkmark Customized moving plans

Estimated cost to move from San Francisco to Ann Arbor

These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 2,354-mile move from San Francisco to Ann Arbor using pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Nov 07, 2025. moveBuddha’s database includes thousands of authenticated prices from movers around the country, refreshed monthly to capture seasonal swings and market movement. Your final quote can change based on volume, extra services, parking or access hurdles, fuel rates, and timing. It’s wise to request quotes from multiple providers to nail down a precise range.
Studio Icon

Studio / 1 bedroom

  • Moving Company $2,601 – $5,580
  • Moving Container $1,777 – $3,134
  • Rental Truck $1,367 – $2,466
Two Three Bed Icon

2-3 bedrooms

  • Moving Company $3,601 – $7,638
  • Moving Container $2,145 – $4,540
  • Rental Truck $1,452 – $3,027
Four Bed Icon

4+ bedrooms

  • Moving Company $6,564 – $11,349
  • Moving Container $3,225 – $6,285
  • Rental Truck $1,726 – $3,749
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.
Safeway Moving
Bay Point, CA Southgate, MI
1 Bedroom (large)
Oct 23, 2025
Budget Truck Rental
Fairfield, CA Westland, MI
Studio apartment
Oct 19, 2025
Roadway Moving
Fairview, CA Blissfield, MI
1 Bedroom (large)
Oct 14, 2025
American Van Lines
Lafayette, CA Melvindale, MI
4 Bedrooms
Sep 23, 2025
Mayflower Transit
Castle Hill, CA Sylvan Lake, MI
2 Bedrooms
Sep 17, 2025
North American Van Lines
Ashland, CA Clayton, MI
1 Bedroom (large)
Sep 16, 2025
PODS
Newark, CA Tecumseh, MI
1 Bedroom (small)
Sep 15, 2025
Allied Van Lines
Redwood City, CA Flat Rock, MI
5+ Bedrooms
Sep 03, 2025
Colonial Van Lines
Vallejo, CA Dundee, MI
1 Bedroom (large)
Aug 05, 2025
United Van Lines
Los Altos, CA Rockwood, MI
2 Bedrooms
Aug 03, 2025

Moving the opposite route? We got you covered with our moving from Ann Arbor, MI to San Francisco, CA guide.

Top-rated movers to make your San Francisco to Ann Arbor move easy

Finding a trusted local moving company in San Francisco that offers long-distance services to Ann Arbor can be a challenge. Good news — we’ve done the homework for you. Our team reviewed 91 top local movers in San Francisco who handle long-distance moves, evaluating them based on pricing, service offerings, and customer satisfaction.

These are the best local movers for your long-distance move from San Francisco to Ann Arbor.

  1. Pure Moving Company: 4.52 out of 5 stars
  2. Gentle Giant Moving Company: 4.62 out of 5 stars
  3. Eagle Moving & Storage, Inc.: 4.62 out of 5 stars
  4. NorthStar Moving Company : 4.5 out of 5 stars
  5. Good Green Moving: 4.48 out of 5 stars
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
97.6% of all reviews were positive
1.5% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
A 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 team’s 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.
Get a Quote (415) 919-6497

Company Info

State license #: 0191103

Years in Business: 11

DOT #: 3207734

Alternate Names: Pure Moving & Storage, Inc.

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
94.6% of all reviews were positive
5.4% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Moving has never been this stress-free, according to feedback from 130 customers, and nearly 95% reflect positive experiences with Gentle Giant Moving Company. Clients highlight fast-moving teams, consistently polite and friendly staff, careful treatment of belongings, and swift, organized processes. Many describe their crews as efficient, hardworking, and genuinely committed to making moves smooth. Attention to detail and respectful communication set Gentle Giant apart from most competitors. Some mention higher costs than expected and a handful report frustration with unclear estimates or communication lapses. A few note setbacks like rude customer service or lack of follow-up. Still, the overwhelming majority find Gentle Giant’s efficiency, professionalism, and care exceptional compared to other moving firms.
Get a Quote (415) 544-7000

Company Info

State license #: 0167668

Years in Business: 44

DOT #: 373544

Alternate Names: Great Giant Moving Company

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Crane vans
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
86.9% of all reviews were positive
11.7% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Moving made easy is how customers describe Eagle Moving & Storage, Inc., with 86.9% of the 634 feedback entries rating their services positively. Reviewers consistently mention efficient service, careful handling, and professional, polite teams. The booking process is straightforward and communication is strong, making moves feel stress-free compared to larger companies. Many highlight how quickly items are moved and the competitive pricing, with exceptional care towards fragile and valuable belongings. In contrast, 11.7% report issues, mainly with damaged items, late arrivals, or communication lapses during scheduling and claims. While the company receives high praise for their courteous movers and fast work, cases of lost or broken property and delayed deliveries set them apart from top-tier providers who resolve complaints faster and provide more consistent updates. Neutral input often cites both efficient execution and minor damages. Eagle stands out for its efficiency and customer-focused approach but should address recurring concerns with item handling and reliability during high-stress moves.
Get a Quote (415) 404-7400

Company Info

State license #: 0190673

Years in Business: 15

DOT #: 3670248

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Pay by money order
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
91.6% of all reviews were positive
6.5% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Moving 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 NorthStar’s 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.
Get a Quote (415) 635-3844

Company Info

State license #: 0182466

Years in Business: 30

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
88.6% of all reviews were positive
10.6% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Good 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 crews—traits 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.
Get a Quote (855) 613-4663

Company Info

State license #: 0191035

Pricing: $70/hr

Years in Business: 12

DOT #: 2604063

Alternate Names: Green Move, Inc.

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required

How much does it cost to move from San Francisco to Ann Arbor?

In California, moving services typically cost around $128 per hour. Below are standard prices for hiring a full-service moving company, renting a moving container, or a truck:

Move size Moving company Moving container Rental
truck
Studio / 1 bedroom $1,231 – $5,179 $1,270 – $3,248 $1,262 – $2,491
2 – 3 bedrooms $3,601 – $7,638 $2,145 – $4,540 $1,452 – $3,027
4+ bedrooms $6,564 – $11,349 $3,225 – $6,285 $1,726 – $3,749
*These ranges provide an approximation for a 2,354-mile move from San Francisco to Ann Arbor, calculated from moveBuddha’s pricing dataset as of Nov 07, 2025. moveBuddha collects thousands of verified rates from movers nationwide and refreshes the data monthly to reflect seasonal variability and market conditions. Actual charges can vary with shipment size, extra services, parking or access issues, fuel rates, and scheduling. To get a reliable estimate, request quotes from multiple movers.

Cost to hire movers from San Francisco to Ann Arbor

If you’re packing up a studio or one-bedroom to move to Ann Arbor from San Francisco, you can expect prices to land between $1,231 and $5,179. For a two- or three-bedroom space, your costs will usually range from $3,601 to $7,638 for the trip from San Francisco to Ann Arbor. If you’re moving a large four- or five-bedroom home, you’re likely looking at a price tag between $6,564 and $11,349.

Cost of moving containers from San Francisco to Ann Arbor

Moving containers from San Francisco to Ann Arbor will cost you $1,270 to $3,248 for a small move. For a two- to three-bedroom move, moving containers can cost $2,145 to $4,540. A four-bedroom move or bigger will cost $3,225 to $6,285. Learn more about PODS cost.

Here are the cheapest moving container companies when moving out of California.

Cost of moving truck rentals from San Francisco to Ann Arbor

Renting a moving truck from San Francisco to Ann Arbor typically costs the least, but you’ll be responsible for both the heavy lifting and all the driving.

Expect to pay between $1,262 and $2,491 to move a studio or one-bedroom apartment with a rental truck. For a two- or three-bedroom move, prices usually range from $1,452 to $3,027. If you’re relocating a four-bedroom (or larger) home, you’ll likely spend anywhere from $1,726 to $3,749.

These estimates factor in the average cost of fuel.

Key factors that impact the cost of your San Francisco to Ann Arbor move

The cost of San Francisco movers will depend on:

  • Home size: The number of rooms makes a big difference. Expect around $2,546 for a one-bedroom, or up to $11,228 for a four-bedroom.
  • The time of year you’re moving: Rates climb in summer because of peak season demand in San Francisco.
  • DIY vs. professional: Rental trucks can range from $1,262 to $3,454, but require more effort than hiring movers.

What to know before moving from San Francisco to Ann Arbor

Many movers find Ann Arbor easier on the wallet than San Francisco – roughly 42% less for singles and 39% less for families.

Monthly basics average $2,176 for one person in Ann Arbor versus $3,781 in San Francisco. For a family of four, it’s $5,344 compared with $8,717.

See the cost breakdown below to pinpoint where the savings add up:

San Francisco Ann Arbor
Average 1 BR rent $3,259 $1,831
Average 3 BR rent $5,475 $3,763
Average home value $1,241,003 $474,909
Average income (per capita) $136,689 $66,964
Cost of living (single) $3,781 $2,176
Cost of living (family of four) $8,717 $5,344
Unemployment rate 5.4% 3.5%
Sales tax 8.63% 6.0%
State income tax 13.3% 4.25%
  • When relocating from San Francisco to Ann Arbor, expect to find rent about 30% cheaper, letting you enjoy more financial freedom monthly.
  • You can relax about your monthly mortgage expenses, thanks to home prices being nearly 62% more affordable in Ann Arbor compared to San Francisco.
  • Reviewing your financial plan is wise before moving. The average income is nearly 51% lower in Ann Arbor compared to San Francisco.
  • You’ll save on routine expenses like food, gas, and utilities in Ann Arbor, as the cost of living for a single person is 42% lower compared to San Francisco.
  • A move to Ann Arbor can help cut down on a family’s routine expenses, including utilities, transportation, and groceries. The cost of living for a family of four is 39% less than what it costs in San Francisco.
  • The unemployment rate in Ann Arbor is about 35% lower than in San Francisco. This is often a positive indicator of a robust job market and economic health, beneficial if you plan to move there.
  • Sales taxes are 30% less in Ann Arbor relative to San Francisco. This will help shrink your living expenses, especially if you tend to buy more taxable goods.
  • Income taxes in Michigan are 68% below those in California. This decrease in income tax can leave more funds at your disposal, allowing you additional financial breathing room.

See how the cost of everyday necessities and regular monthly payments differs between San Francisco and Ann Arbor:

Living Expense San Francisco Ann Arbor
Basic utilities $229.35 $158.05
Cell phone plan $62.91 $48.64
Dozen eggs $5.91 $2.70
Loaf of bread $5.06 $3.60
Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) $25.00 $15.00
Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) $125.00 $75.00
Gym membership $99.96 $44.00
  • Basic utilities tend to be more expensive in San Francisco than in Ann Arbor.
  • Cell phone plans typically cost more in San Francisco than in Ann Arbor.
  • Eggs cost more in San Francisco than in Ann Arbor.
  • Bread is more expensive in San Francisco than in Ann Arbor.
  • A quick meal tends to cost more in San Francisco than in Ann Arbor.
  • A mid-range dinner for two is pricier in San Francisco than in Ann Arbor.
  • Gym memberships cost more in San Francisco than in Ann Arbor.

How life is different in San Francisco vs. Ann Arbor

San Francisco Ann Arbor
Population 808,988 123,851
Transportation score 10 7
Walkability score 99 52
Bike friendliness score 99 71
Crime index 61.41 31.0
Safety index 38.59 79.18
Air quality Moderate Moderate
  • Ann Arbor’s population is about 85% less than San Francisco.
  • Ann Arbor’s public transportation score of 7 out of 10 is lower than San Francisco’s score of 10.
  • Ann Arbor is less walkable than San Francisco with a score of 52 out of 100 vs San Francisco’s 99 out of 100.
  • Ann Arbor has a bike-friendliness score of 71 out of 100, which means it isn’t as accessible or safe for cyclists as San Francisco, which has a score of 99.
  • Ann Arbor’s crime rate is lower than San Francisco with a score of 31.0 compared to San Francisco’s 61.41. This means that Ann Arbor neighborhoods are safer than 31.0% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and San Francisco neighborhoods are safer than 61.41%.
  • Ann Arbor is considered to be safer than San Francisco with a safety index of 79.18 vs San Francisco’s 38.59.
  • Air quality in Ann Arbor is Moderate, and in San Francisco it’s Moderate.

Other things to consider for your San Francisco to Ann Arbor move

  • 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, make sure to find out how to reserve it ahead of your move.
  • Truck parking permits: Make sure to look into local parking regulations—some areas require permits for large moving trucks.
  • State licensing: The agency regulating local and intrastate household goods movers in Michigan is the Michigan Public Service Commission (MPSC). State regulation and oversight activities include commercial vehicle registration and safety compliance, review of published tariff rates, licensing, and consumer protection efforts. Before booking, ensure the moving company is officially licensed to handle your move.
  • State regulator: Michigan’s public utilities commission provides official mover license verification.
  • Moving Permits: Michigan does not require any moving permits, but it is helpful to check local parking restrictions before moving into the state. We recommend submitting your change of address form with USPS at least a week prior to your move.
  • Change of address: We suggest filing your USPS change of address form at least one week before your move. You’ll be able to set your official move date, helping ensure your mail is forwarded correctly to Ann Arbor. Start the process here.
  • Moving company insurance: The amount and type of insurance movers must have depends on state regulations. In Alabama, Massachusetts, and Michigan, choose the economical option of Released Value Protection, provided by movers at no extra cost. However, it offers minimal coverage at 60 cents per pound per article. For comprehensive coverage of your items’ full value, consult with your moving company for alternatives or explore third-party insurance providers.
  • Moving checklist: Our moving checklist gives you the peace of mind that comes with being fully prepared.

Where to live in Ann Arbor

Planning your move to Tree Town? Take a look at our picks for the best neighborhoods to call home in Ann Arbor.

Best neighborhoods for singles

  • Kerrytown
  • Lower Burns Park
  • Old West Side
  • Northside/Lower Town
  • Allen Creek/Old West Side

Best neighborhoods for families

  • Burns Park
  • Eberwhite
  • Water Hill
  • Ann Arbor Hills
  • Dicken

Things to do in Ann Arbor

After settling into your new Michigan home, you’ll want to branch out and explore your new city. Luckily, Ann Arbor has lots to offer, no matter what you’re interested in:

  • Arts and culture: Ann Arbor features a variety of museums and cultural arts centers, including the Ann Arbor Hands-On Museum, University of Michigan Museum of Art, University of Michigan Museum of Natural History, and Kelsey Museum of Archaeology.
  • Outdoor recreation: The city’s Gallup Park, Hudson Mills Metropark, County Farm Park, and Buhr Park — along with other locations — ideal for trails, cycling, or enjoying the fresh air.
  • Sports: Nothing beats the thrill of cheering on the home team at an Michigan Wolverines (Big Ten) game.

FAQ

When is the best time to move from San Francisco to Ann Arbor?

Planning your move from San Francisco to Ann Arbor? Aim for spring or fall when the weather is pleasant and demand is lower, helping you avoid peak-season rates in San Francisco.

When is the cheapest time to move from San Francisco to Ann Arbor?

Because most people are moving from San Francisco to Ann Arbor in the spring or fall, you can often catch discounts by moving in the winter. Read our guide on moving discounts to learn more.

How long does a move from San Francisco to Ann Arbor take?

The 2,354-mile journey from San Francisco, CA to Ann Arbor, , typically takes seven to 18 days. Some movers in San Francisco offer expedited services if you’re on a tight schedule, and if you need extra time, be sure to ask about storage options in Ann Arbor.

Are there special savings available from movers in San Francisco?

Several movers here offer discounted rates that can help lower your total moving costs. 2 provide savings for AAA members.

These offers can vary widely, so it’s best to verify details with the mover before booking.

Are piano and antique moving services available in San Francisco?

Not all movers have the resources to handle high-value or delicate items. In San Francisco, 72 movers can manage piano relocations. 64 movers are equipped for antique transport. By comparison, California has 297 piano movers and 227 antique movers, while nationwide there are 2,303 and 1,466 respectively.

Always confirm the mover’s experience and packing methods for fragile or specialty items before booking.

Helpful moving resources

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