($1,453) Cost to Move From San Francisco, CA to Albany, NY

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

Cost to hire movers from San Francisco to Albany

When planning a move to Albany from San Francisco, for a studio or one-bedroom, you’ll likely pay between $1,453 and $5,603. If you have a two- or three-bedroom home, expect costs to fall somewhere between $4,173 and $7,879 for the same journey. Moving four or five bedrooms? Typical prices range from $8,006 to $12,851.

Cost of moving containers from San Francisco to Albany

When you’re heading from San Francisco to Albany, and you’re only moving a few items, you can expect to spend between $1,383 and $3,524. For a two- or three-bedroom place, prices usually fall between $2,607 and $5,084. If you’re packing up a large home with four or more bedrooms, the cost can range from $3,565 to $7,165. Want more details? Check out our complete PODS cost guide.

Explore the top budget-friendly moving container companies to make your move from California easier and more affordable.

Cost of moving truck rentals from San Francisco to Albany

A moving rental truck from San Francisco to Albany is generally the cheapest option, but it requires you to do all of the driving and labor.

Moving a studio or one-bedroom apartment in a rental truck will cost around $1,613 to $3,036. A two to three-bedroom move will cost $1,643 to $3,577, and moving a home with four or more bedrooms from San Francisco to Albany costs around $2,142 to $4,663.

These quotes include the estimated fuel cost.

• Rent is about 55% less expensive in Albany than in San Francisco, so you will have more cash on hand each month.
• Expect your mortgage payments to be easier on the wallet, as home prices are around 77% cheaper in Albany than in San Francisco.
• You might want to reassess your budget before relocating. The average income is roughly 51% less in Albany than in San Francisco.
• Expect to spend less on everyday needs such as food, fuel, and utilities in Albany. The cost of living for a single person there is 52% below that of San Francisco.
• A move to Albany can offer your family a more affordable lifestyle, with savings on everyday costs such as utilities, groceries, and transport. The cost of living for a family is 52% lower compared to San Francisco.
• Albany has a higher unemployment rate than San Francisco by about 31%. This means that more people are out of work, so employers may have a larger pool of candidates to choose from, which can lead to a more competitive hiring process.
• Sales taxes are 7% cheaper in Albany compared to San Francisco. This could significantly slash costs for families or individuals with higher spending on taxable necessities.
• Income taxes are 18% less in New York compared to California, offering a relief on your paycheck, which can enhance your budgeting options.

• Albany’s population is about 88% less than San Francisco.
• Albany’s public transportation score of 8 out of 10 is lower than San Francisco’s score of 10.
• Albany is less walkable than San Francisco with a score of 65 out of 100 vs San Francisco’s 99 out of 100.
• Albany has a bike-friendliness score of 55 out of 100, which means it isn’t as accessible or safe for cyclists as San Francisco, which has a score of 99.
• Albany’s crime rate is lower than San Francisco with a score of 10.0 compared to San Francisco’s 61.41. This means that Albany neighborhoods are safer than 10.0% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and San Francisco neighborhoods are safer than 61.41%.
• Albany is considered to be safer than San Francisco with a safety index of 49.65 vs San Francisco’s 38.59.
• Air quality in Albany is Good, and in San Francisco it’s Moderate.

• HOA rules: Costs across San Francisco and Albany are largely aligned, so your monthly budget shouldn’t shift much after the 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: Many cities require special permits for parking large moving trucks. Check in advance to see if one is needed for your move.
• State licensing: New York requires moving companies to have a license and obtain a New York Department of Transportation (NYDOT) number. A NYDOT license ensures your mover is in compliance with the state’s safety, insurance, and operational regulations. Ensure the company you choose is licensed to handle your move.
• State regulator: To confirm a moving company’s license in New York, visit the state’s public utilities commission.
• Moving Permits: Moving permits aren’t typically required in New York, but always confirm with local authorities to avoid surprises.
• Change of address: You can set an official move date on the form and this way all of your mail will get properly forwarded to Albany. Get started here.
• Moving company insurance: Each state has its own requirements for the level of insurance moving companies must carry. Choose Released Value Protection for no-cost, minimal coverage from movers. They’re responsible for a maximum of 60 cents per pound per article. For comprehensive coverage, discuss alternatives with your moving company or consider a third-party insurance provider.
• Moving checklist: Let our moving checklist guide you through the process and help ensure nothing slips through the cracks.

Best neighborhoods for singles

• Center Square
• Hudson Park
• Park South
• Washington Park
• Mansion
• Downtown
• Historic Pastures
• Sheridan Hollow
• Melrose
• North Albany/Shaker Park

Best neighborhoods for families

• Center Square
• Helderberg
• Melrose
• Park South
• Hudson Park
• New Scotland/Woodlawn
• Northside
• Union Street
• Buckingham Pond/Crestwood

Things to do in Albany

With your move to New York complete, you can dive right into experiencing Albany. From cultural attractions to outdoor adventures, you’ll never run out of things to do:

• Arts and culture: Albany is home to museums and cultural arts centers like the New York State Museum, USS Slater DE-766, Albany Institute of History & Art, and The Irish American Heritage Museum.
• Outdoor recreation: The city’s Washington Park and Albany Pine Bush Preserve — among other spots — perfect for hiking, biking, or simply soaking up the outdoors.
• Sports: Experience the energy of a live game and back the home team at an Albany Great Danes (America East)Saint Rose Golden Knights (NE-10) game.