Local moving companies in Oakland
- Big Family Movers: 4.66 out of 5 stars
- West Coast Moving Systems, Inc: 4.66 out of 5 stars
- NorthStar Moving Company : 4.66 out of 5 stars
- Got2Move Moving and Storage: 4.66 out of 5 stars
- Pure Moving Company: 4.62 out of 5 stars
Big Family Movers

DOT #: 2916075
Years in Business: 20
3955 Whittle Ave, Oakland, CA 94602 USMoving made simple: that's the message from customer feedback on Big Family Movers. Of 269 reviews analyzed, 95% praised the company, placing them well above competitors in consistency. Customers highlighted efficient service, careful handling, affordable rates, professionalism, and a helpful, upbeat staff. Feedback repeatedly mentioned how staff turned stressful days into easy experiences through communication and kindness. Many noted that belongings arrived safely and on time, and that prices were fair. A handful of negative reviews cited issues with damaged items, difficulty reaching the company for bookings, or minor delays. Some dissatisfied customers experienced miscommunication or unexpected handling of their property. Still, most found the company's service reliable and courteous, often better than other local movers. Nearly every review underlined trust in Big Family Movers for repeat moves and referrals, making them a standout choice for anyone seeking a dependable moving service in the Bay Area.
Review Profiles
Services Offered
Move Distances
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
Available services
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Hot Tubs
- Pool Tables
- Art
- Antiques
- Grandfather clocks
- Crating
- Storage
Additional Information
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
- DOT #: 2916075
- State license #: 0189403
West Coast Moving Systems, Inc

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

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
Got2Move Moving and Storage

DOT #: 3070307
Years in Business: 18
1611 Abram Ct, San Leandro, CA 94577 USMoving made easyโGot2Move earns stellar customer feedback for efficient service, professional and friendly movers, careful handling, fast moves, and clear communication. After analyzing 523 reviews, 91.6% of input rated positive. Many highlighted how their moves were quick, belongings protected, and staff courteous. Pricing transparency and responsiveness frequently appeared in customer input. On the downside, some cited damages to TVs or furniture, slow or unreliable timing, or delays. A small number paid more than expected or faced long delays, especially for large moves or underprepared crews. While a handful perceived damage or slow service, these negatives were notably less frequent than with most competitors. Compared to other moving companies, Got2Move stands out with a high rate of customer satisfaction and strong attention to detail, but customers with high-value or fragile items should confirm handling preferences and insurance coverage upfront.
Review Profiles
Services Offered
Move Distances
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
Available services
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Pool Tables
- Art
- Antiques
- Grandfather clocks
- Crating
- Shipment tracking
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Safes
Additional Information
- Pay by money order
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
- DOT #: 3070307
- State license #: 0191707
Alternative Business Names
- Got2Move
Pure Moving Company

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.
Factors that influence moving costs from Oakland to Houston
What to know before moving from Oakland to Houston
Moving from Oakland to Houston means adjusting to a different pace of life โ and a different price tag. On average, it costs significantly more to live in Oakland than in Houston, making the move an opportunity for many to enjoy a lower cost of living.
Check out how Oakland compares to Houston so you know what to expect before you relocate:
Oakland | Houston | |
---|---|---|
Average rent cost | $2,200 | $1,549 |
Average home value | $736,156 | $263,945 |
Average income (per capita) | $94,389 | $69,833 |
Cost of living (single person) | $3,146 | $2,770 |
Cost of living (family of 4) | $8,584 | $7,157 |
Unemployment rate | 4.5% | 4.1% |
Sales tax | 10.25% | 8.25% |
State income tax | 13.3% | 0.0% |
- Rent prices in Houston are 30% lower than in Oakland, which means youโll have more money in your pocket each month.
-
In terms of homeownership, youโll be able to get more for your money in Houston.
Home prices in Houston are 64.1% lower than in Oakland. - Income in Houston is 26.0% lower than in Oakland, so you could earn less for doing the same job. The top employers in Houston include H-E-B, Houston Methodist, and Memorial Hermann Health System.
- The cost of living for a single person in Houston is 12.0% lower than in Oakland. This includes routine expenses like utilities, groceries, clothing, and transportation.
- The cost of living for a family in Houston is 16.6% lower than in Oakland.
- The unemployment rate in Houston is 8.89% lower than in Oakland.
- Youโll spend less on retail and restaurants in Houston, since the cityโs sales taxes in Houston are 19.51% lower than in Oakland.
- One perk of moving to Houston is paying less in state income taxes, which are 100.00% lower than in Oakland.
To put this in perspective, you would need around $2,641.45 in Houston to maintain the same standard of life that you can have with $3,000.00 in Oakland.
How life is different in Oakland vs. Houston
Houston | Oakland | |
---|---|---|
Population | 2,301,572 | 440,646 |
AllTransit Transportation Performance Score | 5 | 8 |
Walkability score | 47 | 75 |
Bike friendliness score | 49 | 65 |
Crime Index | 63.5 | 68.62 |
Safety Index | 36.5 | 31.38 |
Air Quality | Good | Good |
- Houston's population is about 422% greater than Oakland.
- Houston's public transportation has a score of 5 out of 10 versus Oakland's higher score of 8.
- Houston is less walkable than Oakland with a score of 47 out of 100 vs Oakland's 75 out of 100.
- Houston has a bike-friendliness score 49 out of 100, which means it isn't as accessible to and safe for cyclists as Oakland, which has a score of 65 out of 100.
- Houston's crime rate is lower than Oakland with a score of 63.5 compared to Oakland's 68.62. This means that Houston neighborhoods are safer than 63.5% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Oakland neighborhoods are safer than 68.62%.
- Houston is considered to be safer than Oakland with a safety index of 36.5 vs Oakland's 31.38.
- Air quality in Houston is good, and in Oakland it's good.
Other things to consider for your Oakland vs. Houston move
- Weather: Houston's weather is moderate to hot year-round but hurricane season in the late summer months may affect your 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 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: In-state movers operating in the Lone Star State are legally required to be licensed by the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles (TXDMV), which issues 10-digit TXDMV numbers to commercial carriers. Make sure the moving company you use has a license before hiring.
- State regulator: You can verify a Texas moving license and its status through the state's public utilities commission.
- Moving permits: Texas 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 Houston. Get started here.
- Moving company insurance: Every state requires moving companies to carry different levels of insurance.In Texas, movers typically provide Released Value Protection at no additional cost, covering items at 60 cents per pound. For enhanced protection, consider discussing Full Value Protection options with the moving company. Alternatively, explore third-party insurance providers for customized plans. It's crucial to understand coverage limits, potential additional costs, and read reviews to make an informed decision about your moving insurance in Texas.
- Moving checklist: Our moving checklist will help you have the peace of mind that you've got everything covered.
Where to live in Houston
Now that you've decided to make the move to "HOU", these are the best neighborhoods to move to in Houston.
Best neighborhoods for singles
- Downtown
- Greenway/Upper Kirby
- Montrose
- Museum District
Best neighborhoods for families
- Clear Lake City
- Friendswood
- Kingwood
- Memorial
- Sugar Land
Things to do in Houston
Now that you've made the move to Texas, itโs the perfect time to explore Houston. From local hotspots to hidden gems, thereโs something to enjoy for every lifestyle:
- Arts and culture: Youโll find museums and cultural hubs throughout Houston, such as the Museum of Fine Arts, Houston, Childrenโs Museum of Houston, The Menil Collection, Houston Museum of Natural Science, and Holocaust Museum Houston.
- Outdoor recreation: The cityโs Hermann Park, Terry Hershey Park, Lake Houston Park, and Memorial 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 Houston Texans (NFL), Houston Astros (MLB, Houston Dash (NWSL), or Houston Dynamo FC (MLS) game.
FAQ
When is the best time to move from Oakland to Houston?
Spring and fall are the ideal times to move from Oakland to Houston. Youโll benefit from more comfortable weather and avoid the higher prices that come with peak moving season in Oakland.
When is the cheapest time to move from Oakland to Houston?
Since spring and fall are the most popular times to move from Oakland to Houston, moving in the winter could help you save money. Check out our guide on moving discounts for more tips.
How long does a move from Oakland to Houston take?
The 1,916-mile journey from Oakland, CA to Houston, TX 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 Houston.