Quick answer: The cost to move from San Francisco to Buffalo ranges from $1,869 to $10,090 and the journey will take approximately seven to 21 days. Key factors influencing these estimates include your moving volume, chosen moving date, and whether you opt for professional movers or handle the 2,644-mile move on your own.

Moving the reverse route? We've got you covered with our Moving from Buffalo to San Francisco guide.

Our track recordtoggle

Recommended by Time Magazine
Recommended by The New York Times
Recommended by Forbes
Recommended by Money.com
Recommended by Consumer Reports
Recommended by Time Magazine
Recommended by The New York Times
Recommended by Forbes
Recommended by Money.com
Recommended by Consumer Reports

Each year, 400,000+ people trust our moving recommendations. Here are a few reasons why:

  • Founded in 2015
  • 3,500+ moving companies analyzed
  • $50,000 in moving grants delivered
  • Up-to-date pricing info & industry data
  • Fact-checked for accuracy

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 Buffalo

Picking a long-distance moving company for your move from San Francisco to Buffalo isn't easy — there are tons of options out there, and figuring out who's reliable (and who's not) can feel like a real challenge.

No need to stress about sifting through endless options — we've already done the homework for you. Our picks are based on real reviews, pricing, and the range of services offered.

Safeway Moving
checkmarkBest overall value
checkmarkPortion to charity
checkmarkVeteran owned
checkmarkBest overall value
checkmarkPortion to charity
checkmarkVeteran owned
checkmarkBest overall value
checkmarkPortion to charity
checkmarkVeteran owned
checkmarkBest overall value
checkmarkPortion to charity
checkmarkVeteran owned
American Van Lines
checkmarkCertified crews
checkmarkFlat-rate pricing
checkmarkFamily-owned
checkmarkCertified crews
checkmarkFlat-rate pricing
checkmarkFamily-owned
checkmarkCertified crews
checkmarkFlat-rate pricing
checkmarkFamily-owned
checkmarkCertified crews
checkmarkFlat-rate pricing
checkmarkFamily-owned
Allied Van Lines
checkmarkSpecialty packing services
checkmarkWhite-glove reputation
checkmark80+ years' experience
checkmarkSpecialty packing services
checkmarkWhite-glove reputation
checkmark80+ years' experience
checkmarkSpecialty packing services
checkmarkWhite-glove reputation
checkmark80+ years' experience
checkmarkSpecialty packing services
checkmarkWhite-glove reputation
checkmark80+ years' experience
Mayzlin Relocation
checkmarkFamily owned
checkmarkEast coast focus
checkmarkAffordable pricing
checkmarkFamily owned
checkmarkEast coast focus
checkmarkAffordable pricing
checkmarkFamily owned
checkmarkEast coast focus
checkmarkAffordable pricing
checkmarkFamily owned
checkmarkEast coast focus
checkmarkAffordable pricing
North American Van Lines
checkmark1,800 trucks
checkmarkStorage available
checkmarkCustomized moving plans
checkmark1,800 trucks
checkmarkStorage available
checkmarkCustomized moving plans
checkmark1,800 trucks
checkmarkStorage available
checkmarkCustomized moving plans
checkmark1,800 trucks
checkmarkStorage available
checkmarkCustomized moving plans

How we chose the best moving companies for your CA to NY movetoggle

moveBuddha’s expert team analyzed moving rates from 277 California movers and listed the top movers based on customer satisfaction, reviews, and cost.

Customer satisfaction (40%): The company consistently delivers services in a timely matter with good communication and within the estimated cost.

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%): The company is well-regarded within the moving industry and participates in industry conferences and organizations.

Online reputation (15%): The company maintains a professional website with accurate information. The company promptly and professionally responds to online customer inquiries.

Service options (10%): We look for companies with a deep breadth of services including full packing, storage, specialty item handling, and expedited delivery.

Here is our full moving company rating methodology.

Local moving companies in San Francisco

  1. Eagle Moving & Storage, Inc.: 4.8 out of 5 stars
  2. Luigy's Moving & Storage: 4.8 out of 5 stars
  3. 680 Movers: 4.8 out of 5 stars
  4. NorthStar Moving Company : 4.76 out of 5 stars
  5. Gentle Giant Moving Company: 4.76 out of 5 stars
https://www.facebook.com/EagleMovingStorage/,
87% of all reviews were positive
12% 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.
Show more
Get a Quote (415) 404-7400

Company Info

State license #: 0190673

Years in Business: 14

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/sanfranciscomovers,
94% of all reviews were positive
6% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Customer stories about Luigy's Moving & Storage highlight a company that stands out for speed, professionalism, careful handling, and friendly, supportive movers. Out of 125 customer reports, 93.6% praise efficient work, courteous teams, precise scheduling, and protected furniture. People frequently mention that staff went out of their way to assist, arriving on time and wrapping or moving items safely.
While most input speaks highly of dependable service and fair pricing, a few negative reports cite unexpected extra charges, missing belongings, and unresolved insurance concerns. These serious criticisms were rare compared to industry averages but are important for transparency. Compared to other movers, Luigy's receives above-average marks for reliability, staff demeanor, and minimizing stress on moving day.
Show more
Get a Quote (415) 413-4646

Company Info

State license #: 0192210

Years in Business: 25

DOT #: 02740355


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required
https://www.facebook.com/680Movers, https://twitter.com/680movers
88% of all reviews were positive
10% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Moving made simple and stress-free—feedback shows 680 Movers stands out for handling belongings with care, working efficiently, and maintaining a professional, courteous crew. Out of 861 reviews, nearly 88% are positive, repeatedly praising the team's fast service, mindful handling of items, reliability, communication, and organizational skills. Many say quotes are accurate, prices are fair, and they're kept well-informed from booking to delivery.
Repeat customers highlight consistent quality and recommend them over other Bay Area movers. On the downside, about 10% of experiences involve significant issues, including damage to furniture or homes, slow claims handling, and rare events of delayed arrivals or poor follow-up. Customers note that resolution of claims can be frustrating and coverage for damages feels inadequate compared to losses. Neutral input, though rare, usually points to scheduling inconveniences or minor concerns about the cost or pace. 680 Movers eclipses similarly sized moving companies in the area, thanks to an overwhelmingly positive reputation for careful and efficient moves. Still, costly damage and slow complaint responses mean those with high-value items should be vigilant.
Show more
Get a Quote (925) 639-9336

Company Info

State license #: 0191566

Pricing: $125/hr

Years in Business: 7

DOT #: 2950711


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Shipment tracking
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Safes
  • Pay by money order
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required
https://www.facebook.com/NorthStarMoving,
92% of all reviews were positive
7% 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.
Show more
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/gentlegiantmovingcompany, https://twitter.com/gentlegiantmove
95% of all reviews were positive
5% 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.
Show more
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

How much does it cost to move from San Francisco to Buffalo?

San Francisco movers charge $150 per hour on average. Here are average prices for a full-service moving company, moving container, or truck:

Move size Moving company Moving container Rental truck
Studio / 1 bedroom $1,676 - $6,659 $1,753 - $4,238 $1,852 - $3,554
2 - 3 bedrooms $4,722 - $10,090 $3,142 - $6,548 $1,869 - $4,105
4+ bedrooms $8,702 - $14,434 $4,082 - $8,491 $2,486 - $5,191
*These price ranges are a rough estimate based on 2,644 miles and historical averages. The actual size of your move, additional services required, truck parking access, market conditions, and availability can greatly affect the final cost of your move.

Cost to hire movers from California to New York

If you’re packing up a studio or one-bedroom to move from California to New York, you can expect prices to land between $1,676 and $6,659. For a two- or three-bedroom space, your costs will usually range from $4,722 to $10,090 for the trip from CA to NY. If you’re moving a large four- or five-bedroom home, you’re likely looking at a price tag between $8,702 and $14,434.

Cost of moving containers from California to New York

When you’re heading from California to New York, and you’re only moving a few items, you can expect to spend between $1,753 and $4,238. For a two- or three-bedroom place, prices usually fall between $3,142 and $6,548. If you’re packing up a large home with four or more bedrooms, the cost can range from $4,082 to $8,491. 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 California to New York

A moving rental truck 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 $1,852 to $3,554. A two to three-bedroom move will cost $1,869 to $4,105, and moving a home with four or more bedrooms or from California to New York costs around $2,486 to $5,191.

These quotes include the estimated fuel cost.

Factors that influence moving costs from San Francisco to Buffalotoggle

The cost of San Francisco movers will depend on:

  • Move size: The cost of your move will depend on the amount of items you have in your home. For example, moving a one-bedroom apartment from San Francisco to Buffalo can be as low as $1,676 while a four-bedroom home can be as high as $13,382.
  • Time of year: Summer is peak moving season in San Francisco so moving companies will likely charge more.
  • Do-it-yourself vs professional mover: Renting a truck or using a moving container can be cheaper options, with prices for a rental truck ranging from $1,852 to $4,875. However, these options require more work and effort compared to hiring professional movers.

What to know before moving from San Francisco to Buffalo

Moving from San Francisco to Buffalo means adjusting to a different pace of life — and a different price tag. On average, it costs significantly more to live in San Francisco than in Buffalo, making the move an opportunity for many to enjoy a lower cost of living.

Check out how San Francisco compares to Buffalo so you know what to expect before you relocate:

San Francisco Buffalo
Average rent cost $3,250 $1,200
Average home value $1,241,003 $213,418
Average income (per capita) $136,689 $63,443
Cost of living (single person) $3,781 $2,589
Cost of living (family of 4) $8,717 $5,720
Unemployment rate 5.4% 9.5%
Sales tax 8.63% 8.75%
State income tax 13.3% 10.9%
  • Rent prices in Buffalo are 63% lower than in San Francisco, which means you'll have more money in your pocket each month.
  • In terms of homeownership, you'll be able to get more for your money in Buffalo.
    Home prices in Buffalo are 82.8% lower than in San Francisco.
  • Income in Buffalo is 53.6% lower than in San Francisco, so you could earn less for doing the same job. The top employers in Buffalo — including UBS, Delaware North, and Human — may pay more.
  • Get ready to save some money on recurring expenses like food, gas, and utility bills in Buffalo. On average, the cost of living for a single person there is 31.5% lower than in San Francisco.
  • A move to Buffalo 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 34.4% less than what it costs in San Francisco.
  • The unemployment rate in Buffalo is 75.93% higher than in San Francisco.
  • Shopping and dining out will likely be a little pricier in Buffalo, since its sales taxes are 1.39% higher than what you are paying in San Francisco.
  • One perk of moving to Buffalo is paying less in state income taxes, which are 18.05% lower than in San Francisco.

To put this in perspective, you would need around $2,054.22 in Buffalo to maintain the same standard of life that you can have with $3,000.00 in San Francisco.

How life is different in San Francisco vs. Buffalo

Buffalo San Francisco
Population 278,349 808,988
AllTransit Transportation Performance Score 7 10
Walkability score 67 99
Bike friendliness score 63 99
Crime Index 8.0 61.41
Safety Index 53.55 38.59
Air Quality Moderate Moderate
  • Buffalo might offer you a slower pace of life, since the population is about 66% less than San Francisco.
  • Getting around Buffalo without a car might be more difficult than in San Francisco. Buffalo has a public transportation score of 7 out of 10, whereas San Francisco is ranked 10. Ratings are based on a city's transit connectivity, service frequency, and accessibility to key destinations like jobs and grocery stores.
  • Buffalo neighborhoods and districts might not be as easy to navigate on foot as San Francisco. Based on its score of 67 out of 100, Buffalo isn't as walkable as San Francisco, which has a score of 99 out of 100. The higher the walkability score a city has, the easier it is to access amenities. The most walkable cities also tend to be more densely populated and have shorter block lengths.
  • You probably won't see as many cycling lanes or off-road trails in Buffalo, which is ranked as less bike-friendly than San Francisco. While San Francisco has a bike-friendliness score of 99 out of 100, Buffalo earned a 63. Scores are based on factors like whether a city accommodates cyclists on major roadways, how often people bike to work, and how many steep hills it has.
  • Buffalo has a lower crime rate than San Francisco based on scores of 8.0 and San Francisco's 61.41, 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 Buffalo than in San Francisco, based on Buffalo's safety index of 53.55 versus 38.59 for San Francisco. 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 Buffalo and San Francisco is generally the same (Moderate). 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 San Francisco vs. Buffalo move

  • Weather: Best months to move to Buffalo are August, July and June are the most pleasant months in Buffalo, while January and December are the least comfortable months due to extreme winter weather.
  • HOA rules: Be sure to review your community or HOA guidelines before moving day to avoid any surprises or delays.
  • Elevator reservation: If your building has an elevator, make sure to find out how to reserve it ahead of your move.
  • 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. Double-check that the moving company is properly licensed before you hire them.
  • State regulator: You can check the status of a New York moving license through the state's public utilities commission.
  • Moving Permits: New York doesn't require moving permits, but it's still a good idea to check local parking rules before your move-in day.
  • 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 Buffalo. Start the process 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: Use our moving checklist to stay on top of every detail and reduce last-minute stress.

Where to live in Buffalo

Ready to relocate to Queen City? Here are some of the top neighborhoods to consider in Buffalo.

Best neighborhoods for singles

  • Allentown
  • Parkside
  • West Side
  • North Park
  • First Ward

Best neighborhoods for families

  • East Aurora
  • Kenmore
  • Grandyle Village
  • Billington Heights
  • Lancaster

Things to do in Buffalo

After getting comfortable in your new New York home, it's time to see what Buffalo is all about. Whether you're into food, art, nature, or nightlife — there's plenty to check out:

  • Arts and culture: Buffalo is home to museums and cultural arts centers like the Buffalo & Erie County Naval and Military Park, Pierce-Arrow Museum, Albright-Knox Art Gallery, Buffalo Museum of Science, and Burchfield Penney Art Center.
  • Outdoor recreation: The city's Buffalo and Erie County Botanical Gardens, The Buffalo Zoo, Delaware Park, and Erie Basin Marina — among other sites — are great places to hike, ride bikes, or just enjoy nature.'
  • Sports: Catch a live game and cheer on the home team at an Buffalo Bandits, Buffalo Beauts‎, Buffalo Bills (AAFC)‎, or Buffalo Bisons (AHL)‎ game.

FAQ

When is the best time to move from San Francisco to Buffalo?

The most budget-friendly and comfortable times to move from San Francisco to Buffalo are in the spring or fall, when the weather is mild and moving rates in San Francisco. are lower.

When is the cheapest time to move from San Francisco to Buffalo?

Because most people are moving from San Francisco to Buffalo 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 Buffalo take?

Moving from San Francisco, CA to Buffalo, NY covers 2,644 miles and usually takes seven to 21 days Need to move faster? Some San Francisco movers offer expedited options. If you're not ready to receive your items, look into storage solutions in Buffalo.

Helpful moving resources