Oakland, CA to Minneapolis, MN Movers (NEW 2026 Costs)
Quick answer: Moving from Oakland to Minneapolis typically costs $3,800–$8,400 with full-service movers for a 2–3 bedroom home (about 1,971 miles). Use our moving cost calculator below to get an instant estimate.
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Cost to move from Oakland to Minneapolis
Moving from Oakland, CA to Minneapolis, MN typically costs $3,800–$8,400 with full-service movers for a 2–3 bedroom home.
The price ranges below are estimates for a 1,971-mile move from Oakland to Minneapolis, based on moveBuddha pricing data as of Mar 20, 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
- Budget Truck Rental recently quoted $1,405 for a studio apartment using a rental truck.
- Mayflower Transit recently quoted $4,290 for a 1 bedroom (large) using professional movers.
- United Van Lines recently quoted $10,760 for a 4 bedroom using professional movers.
Studio apartment
Feb 11, 2026
1 Bedroom (large)
Feb 10, 2026
4 Bedrooms
Feb 04, 2026
1 Bedroom (large)
Jan 31, 2026
2 Bedrooms
Jan 28, 2026
4 Bedrooms
Jan 17, 2026
1 Bedroom (large)
Jan 09, 2026
5+ Bedrooms
Jan 07, 2026
3 Bedrooms
Dec 29, 2025
1 Bedroom (large)
Dec 22, 2025
Key factors that impact the cost of your Oakland to Minneapolis move
Your total cost will depend on:
- Home size: The number of rooms makes a big difference. Expect around $2,600 for a one-bedroom, or up to $12,500 for a four-bedroom.
- The time of year you're moving: Rates climb in summer because of peak season demand in Oakland.
- DIY vs. professional: Rental trucks can range from $1,300 to $3,600, but require more effort than hiring movers.
Moving the opposite route? We got you covered with our moving from Minneapolis, MN to Oakland, CA guide.
Best Oakland to Minneapolis movers by type
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Labor Only
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Best professional movers from Oakland to Minneapolis
Opting for a full-service mover can make your interstate move from Oakland to Minneapolis 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.
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→MN movers
The experienced professionals at moveBuddha reviewed moving rates from 372 California movers, pinpointing the highest-rated services by analyzing satisfaction metrics, reviews, and overall cost.
- Customer satisfaction (40%): The business consistently meets deadlines, communicates clearly with clients, and remains within the expected spending limits.
- Dispute resolution (20%): Mistakes cannot be avoided in the moving industry. We look for companies that own their mistakes and make genuine efforts to fix any issues that arise during a move.
- Industry reputation (15%): This mover maintains a strong reputation among industry peers and is active in professional associations and events.
- Online reputation (15%): A polished, accurate website and quick, respectful responses to online inquiries reflect the company’s strong digital presence.
- Service options (10%): A broad service menu matters. We value movers that cover everything from packing and storage to unique item care and speedy delivery.
Here is our full moving company rating methodology.
What to know before moving from Oakland to Minneapolis
Expect a bump in monthly expenses after the move - Minneapolis runs about 24% higher for singles and -45% higher for families than Oakland.
Singles spend around $3,900 in Minneapolis versus $3,146 in Oakland; families pay $4,710 compared with $8,584.
Dig into the side-by-side details here:
| Oakland | Minneapolis | |
|---|---|---|
| Average 1 BR rent | $1,969 | $1,688 |
| Average 3 BR rent | $4,450 | $2,707 |
| Average home value | $736,156 | $312,602 |
| Average income (per capita) | $94,389 | $70,099 |
| Cost of living (single) | $3,146 | $3,900 |
| Cost of living (family of four) | $8,584 | $4,710 |
| Unemployment rate | 4.5% | 4.5% |
| Sales tax | 10.25% | 9.03% |
| State income tax | 13.3% | 9.85% |
- When relocating from Oakland to Minneapolis, expect to find rent about 33% cheaper, letting you enjoy more financial freedom monthly.
- You can relax about your monthly mortgage expenses, thanks to home prices being nearly 58% more affordable in Minneapolis compared to Oakland.
- Reviewing your financial plan is wise before moving. The average income is nearly 26% lower in Minneapolis compared to Oakland.
- Prepare your budget for higher expenses in Minneapolis, as living costs for a single person are 24% higher than in Oakland. This includes essential costs such as utilities, groceries, clothing, and commuting.
- A move to Minneapolis 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 45% less than what it costs in Oakland.
- With Minneapolis and Oakland having similar unemployment rates, deviating by approximately 5%, job opportunities and market competitiveness remain consistent.
- Sales taxes are 12% less in Minneapolis relative to Oakland. This will help shrink your living expenses, especially if you tend to buy more taxable goods.
- Income taxes in Minnesota are 26% 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 Oakland and Minneapolis:
| Living Expense | Oakland | Minneapolis |
|---|---|---|
| Basic utilities | $277.25 | $164.65 |
| Cell phone plan | $53.00 | $50.68 |
| Dozen eggs | $6.71 | $4.15 |
| Loaf of bread | $5.09 | $3.75 |
| Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) | $30.00 | $18.00 |
| Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) | $140.00 | $75.00 |
| Gym membership | $54.28 | $55.00 |
- Basic utilities tend to be more expensive in Oakland than in Minneapolis.
- Cell phone plans typically cost more in Oakland than in Minneapolis.
- Eggs cost more in Oakland than in Minneapolis.
- Bread is more expensive in Oakland than in Minneapolis.
- A quick meal tends to cost more in Oakland than in Minneapolis.
- A mid-range dinner for two is pricier in Oakland than in Minneapolis.
- Gym memberships are more affordable in Oakland than in Minneapolis.
How life is different in Oakland vs. Minneapolis
| Oakland | Minneapolis | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 440,646 | 425,115 |
| Transportation score | 8 | 8 |
| Walkability score | 75 | 71 |
| Bike friendliness score | 65 | 83 |
| Crime index | 68.62 | 56.06 |
| Safety index | 31.38 | 43.94 |
| Air quality | Good | Good |
- Minneapolis's population is within about 5% of Oakland, so they’re very similar in size.
- Minneapolis's public transportation score is within about 5% of Oakland, making them very similar.
- Minneapolis and Oakland are similarly walkable.
- With a score of 83 out of 100, Minneapolis is more bike-friendly than Oakland, which has a score of 65 out of 100. The higher a city's score, the more suited it is to safely accommodating cyclists.
- Minneapolis's crime rate is lower than Oakland with a score of 56.06 compared to Oakland's 68.62. This means that Minneapolis neighborhoods are safer than 56.06% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Oakland neighborhoods are safer than 68.62%.
- Minneapolis is considered to be safer than Oakland with a safety index of 43.94 vs Oakland's 31.38.
- Air quality in Minneapolis is Good, and in Oakland it's Good.
Other things to consider for your Oakland to Minneapolis 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: To operate legally within the state, Minnesota household goods movers must have a current permit from the Minnesota Department of Transportation (MnDOT). Before being granted operating authority, each moving company must file a public tariff, provide proof of insurance and submit a Certificate of Compliance to MnDOT. Before booking, ensure the moving company is officially licensed to handle your move.
- State regulator: Minnesota’s public utilities commission provides official mover license verification.
- Moving Permits: Minnesota 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 Minneapolis. Start the process here.
- Moving company insurance: The amount and type of insurance movers must have depends on state regulations. In Minnesota, opt for the budget-friendly Released Value Protection provided by movers at no extra charge. While economical, it offers minimal coverage at 60 cents per pound per article. For full value coverage of your items, consult with your chosen moving company for alternatives or consider a third-party insurance provider.
- Moving checklist: Our moving checklist gives you the peace of mind that comes with being fully prepared.
Where to live in Minneapolis
Planning your move to City of Lakes? Take a look at our picks for the best neighborhoods to call home in Minneapolis.
Best neighborhoods for singles
- Linden Hills
- Loring Park
- Northeast Minneapolis
- North Loop (Warehouse District)
- Uptown
- Whittier
Best neighborhoods for families
- Diamond Lake
- Fulton
- Kenny
- Linden Hills
- Minnehaha
Things to do in Minneapolis
After settling into your new Minnesota home, you'll want to branch out and explore your new city. Luckily, Minneapolis has lots to offer, no matter what you're interested in:
- Arts and culture: Minneapolis features a variety of museums and cultural arts centers, including the Minneapolis Institute of Art, Mill City Museum, American Swedish Institute, and The Museum of Russian Art.
- Outdoor recreation: The city's Minnehaha Park, Mill Ruins Park, Loring Park, and Gold Medal 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 Minnesota Lynx (WNBA)Minnesota Timberwolves (NBA)Minnesota Twins (MLB)Minnesota Vikings (NFL) game.
FAQ
When is the best time to move from Oakland to Minneapolis?
Planning your move from Oakland to Minneapolis? Aim for spring or fall when the weather is pleasant and demand is lower, helping you avoid peak-season rates in Oakland.
When is the cheapest time to move from Oakland to Minneapolis?
Because most people are moving from Oakland to Minneapolis 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 Oakland to Minneapolis take?
The 1,971-mile journey from Oakland, CA to Minneapolis, MN, typically takes five to 16 days. Some movers in Oakland offer expedited services if you're on a tight schedule, and if you need extra time, be sure to ask about storage options in Minneapolis.
Are there special savings available from movers in Oakland?
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 Oakland?
Not all movers have the resources to handle high-value or delicate items. In Oakland, 78 movers can manage piano relocations. 67 movers are equipped for antique transport. By comparison, California has 298 piano movers and 229 antique movers, while nationwide there are 2,294 and 1,462 respectively.
Always confirm the mover’s experience and packing methods for fragile or specialty items before booking.
