Quick answer: Expect to pay $1,564–$9,561 for a move from St. Paul to San Francisco, with most moves taking five to 16 days. Your cost depends on load size, timing, and whether you move yourself or hire help for the 1,982 miles.

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

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

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Best Movers By Type

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Best Professional Movers from St. Paul to San Francisco

Choosing a long-distance mover for your move from St. Paul to San Francisco can be tough. With so many options, it's hard to know which companies you can actually trust.

Skip the hassle of endless research — we've narrowed down the top choices for you. We picked these movers based on real reviews, competitive pricing, and the variety of services they offer.

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 MN to CA movetoggle

moveBuddha's expert team analyzed moving rates from 30 Minnesota 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 movers servicing St. Paul to San Francisco moves

Searching for a dependable local mover in St. Paul that also provides long-distance services to San Francisco can feel overwhelming. Many companies make similar promises, but not all live up to them.

That's where we come in — we've analyzed local movers in St. Paul who specialize in long-distance relocations, factoring in cost, services, and customer feedback.

Below are the top local moving companies for long-distance moves from St. Paul to San Francisco.

  1. Matt's Moving Company : 4.9 out of 5 stars
  2. Metcalf Moving & Storage: 4.86 out of 5 stars
  3. Piepho Moving & Storage, Inc.: 4.76 out of 5 stars
  4. College Muscle Movers, LLC: 4.66 out of 5 stars
  5. Nystrom Moving & Storage, Inc.: 4.62 out of 5 stars
https://www.facebook.com/mattsmovingstp/, https://x.com/mattsmoving
92% of all reviews were positive
7% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Matt's Moving Company earns rave reviews for speed, professionalism, careful handling, and great communication. Customer feedback highlights efficient, friendly teams who make relocation stress-free and consistently deliver on promises. Out of 268 reviews, 92% are positive, a rate few competitors meet.
Most praise comes from fast, careful moves and courteous service. Some clients also note excellent organizational skills and timely arrival, making them a top choice among local movers. Negative input, making up less than 7%, focuses on property damage, late crews, and unexpected costs—issues seen in the moving industry but typically resolved at Matt's Moving. Neutral feedback, just over 1%, references broken items and high pricing for smaller moves, though most still mention professionalism. Compared to similar companies, Matt’s Moving stands out for reliability, positive energy, and an ability to exceed expectations—balanced by the need for occasional improvement in scheduling accuracy and claims handling.
Show more
Get a Quote (651) 210-8271

Company Info

State license #: 374236

Years in Business: 17

DOT #: 1704106


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/metcalfmoving, https://twitter.com/metcalfmoving
92% of all reviews were positive
7% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Metcalf Moving & Storage consistently earns praise for having professional, careful, and efficient crews who communicate well and handle belongings with respect. Out of 234 feedback submissions, over 91% are positive, citing friendly staff, prompt service, and thoughtful packing. Affordable, transparent pricing and timely moves also set them apart from competitors who often lack Metcalf's reliability and care.
On the other hand, a small number of customers report issues such as damaged or missing items and frustration over inaccurate estimates. These negative experiences highlight the importance of monitoring for careful inventory tracking and clear cost communication. Compared to many moving firms, Metcalf stands out for strong communication, reliable timetables, and respectful, skilled teams, though customers should clarify estimates and special needs upfront to avoid rare but significant problems.
Show more
Get a Quote (651) 484-0211

Company Info

Years in Business: 105

DOT #: 1127088


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Crating
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/Piepho.Allied1/, https://x.com/piephomoving
92% of all reviews were positive
7% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Moving made easy—Piepho Moving & Storage collects high marks from customers, with 91.6% of 250 reviews praising their service. Clients consistently note professional and courteous staff, clear communication, efficiency, careful handling, and quick moving processes. Many describe stress-free moves, punctual teams, and possessions arriving in perfect condition.
Compared with many moving companies, Piepho receives more compliments for staff professionalism and responsiveness. Some negative input highlights item damage, issues with communication, and lateness on deliveries as main complaints. While problems do occur, especially during rare cross-country moves or complex shipments, these are much less common than positive feedback. Overall, most customers find Piepho reliable, skilled, and worth recommending for seamless moves.
Show more
Get a Quote (651) 372-3494

Company Info

State license #: 286311

Years in Business: 73

DOT #: 286311

Alternate Names: Rochester Transfer & Storage Company


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Grandfather clocks
  • Crating
  • Crane vans
  • Shipment tracking
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Safes
  • Pay by money order
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/CollegeMuscleMovers/,
81% of all reviews were positive
18% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Customers rave about College Muscle Movers for their efficient service, attention to care, and professional, friendly crews. Out of 461 reviews, over 81% provided positive feedback, often noting careful handling and clear, proactive communication. Many found the team quick, polite, and able to move belongings without damage—standout qualities that set them above competitors charging more.
Still, a notable portion voiced concerns, mainly about damaged items, charges that exceeded initial estimates, and dissatisfaction with complaint resolution. Missteps such as property damage or underestimated quotes led to tough experiences that some felt were unresolved. Compared to many movers, College Muscle Movers stands out for consistent quality and speed, but buyers should pay close attention to contract terms and ask questions upfront about insurance and billing to avoid surprises.
Show more
Get a Quote (651) 917-4108

Company Info

State license #: 1443087

Years in Business: 18

DOT #: 1443087

Alternate Names: College Muscle, College Muscle Movers


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Grandfather clocks
  • Crating
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required
https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100057045086419,
78% of all reviews were positive
19% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Top-notch service stands out in the feedback for Nystrom Moving & Storage, Inc., with 78% of customers describing prompt, efficient movers who maintain professional and friendly attitudes. Clients often praise the staff for careful handling of items, fast moving times, and affordable pricing. Many noted how approachable and respectful the crews were during stressful moves, often exceeding expectations compared to other companies.
On the downside, about 19% of input focus on difficulty reaching the company, communication lapses, and occasional reports of damaged or missing items. A few found surprise charges and unsatisfactory issue resolution. Most customers experience reliable, value-driven service with minimal issues, distinguishing Nystrom from many competitors in the region. The company’s strengths in efficiency, professionalism, and courtesy are consistently recognized, while clear communication could further enhance customer satisfaction.
Show more
Get a Quote (651) 224-3722

Company Info

State license #: 1124693

Years in Business: 77

DOT #: 1124693

Alternate Names: Nystrom's Moving


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Crane vans
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card

How much does it cost to move from St. Paul to San Francisco?

St. Paul movers charge $100 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 $1,590 - $6,251 $1,410 - $3,417 $1,474 - $2,705
2 - 3 bedrooms $4,476 - $9,561 $2,535 - $5,003 $1,564 - $3,284
4+ bedrooms $7,956 - $13,797 $3,473 - $6,749 $1,876 - $3,982
*These price ranges are a rough estimate based on 1,982 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 Minnesota to California

Moving a studio or one-bedroom home from Minnesota to California typically costs between $1,590 and $6,251. For a two- or three-bedroom home, expect prices to fall between $4,476 and $9,561 when moving from MN to CA. If you're tackling a large move (think four or five bedrooms) from Minnesota to California, you're looking at costs ranging from $7,956 up to $13,797.

Cost of moving containers from Minnesota to California

Moving from Minnesota to California? For a small load, you'll likely pay between $1,410 and $3,417. If you have a two- or three-bedroom home, costs usually range from $2,535 to $5,003. Got a big family or a four-plus bedroom house? Expect prices ranging anywhere from $3,473 up to $6,749. For detailed pricing info, take a look at our complete PODS cost guide.

Check out the most affordable moving container companies to help with your move from Minnesota.

Cost of moving truck rentals from Minnesota to California

Renting a moving truck typically costs the least, but you'll be responsible for both the heavy lifting and all the driving.

Expect to pay between $1,474 and $2,705 to move a studio or one-bedroom apartment with a rental truck. For a two- or three-bedroom move, prices usually range from $1,564 to $3,284. If you're relocating a four-bedroom (or larger) home, you'll likely spend anywhere from $1,876 to $3,982.

These estimates factor in the average cost of fuel.

Key factors that influence moving costs from St. Paul to San Franciscotoggle

The cost of St. Paul 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 St. Paul to San Francisco can be as low as $1,590 while a four-bedroom home can be as high as $13,848.
  • Time of year: Summer is peak moving season in St. Paul 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 $1,474 to $3,526. However, these options require more work and effort compared to hiring professional movers.

What to know before moving from St. Paul to San Francisco

Moving from St. Paul to San Francisco comes with exciting new opportunities — but also higher living costs. Since San Francisco is generally more expensive than St. Paul, it's important to plan ahead and budget carefully for the change.

Check out how the two cities compare so you know what to expect before you relocate:

St. Paul San Francisco
Average rent cost $1,350 $3,250
Average home value $278,221 $1,241,003
Average income (per capita) $63,483 $136,689
Cost of living (single person) $3,633 $3,781
Cost of living (family of 4) $4,290 $8,717
Unemployment rate 4.9% 5.4%
Sales tax 9.88% 8.63%
State income tax 9.85% 13.3%
  • You may want to budget more for rent in San Francisco, since prices are typically 141% higher than in St. Paul.
  • The home prices in San Francisco are 346.0% higher than in St. Paul, which could mean saving up before buying a home, taking on a bigger mortgage, or downsizing.
  • You're likely to make a higher income living in San Francisco, where incomes are, on average, 115.3% higher than in St. Paul. Major employers in San Francisco include Lyft, Securitize, and Wells Fargo.
  • Be sure to budget for higher bills in San Francisco, since the cost of living for a single person in San Francisco is 4.1% higher than in St. Paul. This includes routine expenses like utilities, groceries, clothing, and transportation.
  • If you're moving your family to San Francisco, keep in mind that your living expenses could increase. The cost of living for a family in San Francisco is 103.2% higher than in St. Paul.
  • The unemployment rate in San Francisco is 10.20% higher than in St. Paul.
  • You'll spend less on retail and restaurants in San Francisco, since the city's sales taxes in San Francisco are 12.65% lower than in St. Paul.
  • State income taxes in San Francisco are 35.03% higher than in St. Paul.

To put this in perspective, you would need around $3,122.21 in San Francisco to maintain the same standard of life that you can have with $3,000.00 in St. Paul.

How life is different in St. Paul vs. San Francisco

San Francisco St. Paul
Population 808,988 303,176
AllTransit Transportation Performance Score 10 8
Walkability score 99 60
Bike friendliness score 99 64
Crime Index 61.41 50.86
Safety Index 38.59 49.14
Air Quality Moderate Good
  • The population of San Francisco is about 167% greater than St. Paul, so you may find more to see and do in your new surroundings. Of course, with more people can also come increased competition for jobs and housing.
  • San Francisco offers better access to buses and trains than St. Paul, based on public transportation ratings. San Francisco has a transit score of 10 out of 10 compared to 8 in St. Paul. The higher the score, the more public transportation pickup and dropoff locations a city provides.
  • Living in San Francisco means you'll likely be within closer walking distance to restaurants, shops, parks, and entertainment than you are in St. Paul. San Francisco is considered more walkable than St. Paul, with a score of 99 out of 100 versus 60 out of 100 in St. Paul. A city's walkability score indicates how pedestrian-friendly it is in terms of proximity of neighborhoods to amenities.
  • If cycling is your thing, San Francisco is considered more bike-friendly than St. Paul in terms of designated lanes and connectivity and how many residents opt to commute on two wheels rather than by car. San Francisco has a bike-friendliness score of 99 out of 100, while St. Paul is rated as 64 out of 100.
  • The crime rate in San Francisco is higher than in St. Paul, so you may want to exercise a little extra caution as you're acclimating to your new location. While the crime index is 61.41 in San Francisco, it is 50.86 in St. Paul. With this index, the lower the score, the better, since it indicates a city's crime levels.
  • You may want to exercise more caution as you're getting used to your new surroundings in San Francisco. With a crime index of 38.59, San Francisco ranks lower in overall safety than St. Paul, whose index is 49.14. The safety index measures how safe people in a city feel about walking alone, both during the day and at night, as well as data on muggings, theft, vandalism, and other instances of petty crime.
  • The air quality in San Francisco isn't as good as it is in St. Paul, so you may want to take precautions if you suffer from conditions like allergies or asthma. San Francisco has an air quality rating of Moderate, and St. Paul is considered to be good. Cities with good to moderate air quality may have varying levels of minor potential for health risks for certain people. Beyond the moderate rating, those health risks increase in severity and the amount of residents affected.

Other things to consider for your St. Paul vs. San Francisco move

  • Weather: San Francisco's weather is strongly influenced by the cool currents of the Pacific Ocean on the west side of the city, and the water of San Francisco Bay to the north and east. This moderates temperature swings and produces a remarkably mild year-round climate with little seasonal temperature variation.
  • 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: When contacting a local moving company for an estimate in California, make sure each has a “T Number” issued by the California Public Utilities Commission (CAPUC). Moving companies with valid T Numbers have met state requirements for insurance, safety, and financial stability and have passed criminal clearance checks conducted by the California Department of Justice. Make sure the moving company you use has a license before hiring.
  • State regulator: You can verify a California moving license and its status through the state's public utilities commission.
  • Moving Permits: California 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: You can set an official move date on the form and this way all of your mail will get properly forwarded to San Francisco. Get started here.
  • Moving company insurance: Every state requires moving companies to carry different levels of insurance. Opt for Released Value Protection – a cost-free choice provided by movers with minimal coverage. The liability is capped at 60 cents per pound per article. For instance, if a 50-inch TV weighing 25 pounds is lost or damaged, your reimbursement is only $15 (60 cents x 25 pounds). To ensure comprehensive coverage for your items' full value, consult with your chosen moving company or consider third-party insurance options.
  • Moving checklist: Our moving checklist will help you have the peace of mind that you\'ve got everything covered.

Where to live in San Francisco

With your sights set on Golden Gate City, these are some of the most popular neighborhoods to consider in San Francisco.

Best neighborhoods for singles

  • Marina District
  • Mission Bay
  • Mission District
  • Noe Valley

Best neighborhoods for families

  • Bernal Heights
  • Inner Sunset
  • Noe Valley
  • North Beach
  • Presidio Heights

Things to do in San Francisco

After settling into your new California home, you'll want to branch out and explore your new city. Luckily, San Francisco has lots to offer, no matter what you're interested in:

  • Arts and culture: Cultural attractions in San Francisco include museums and art centers like the Exploratorium, California Academy of Sciences, Walt Disney Family Museum, San Francisco Museum of Modern Art, and Legion of Honor.
  • Outdoor recreation: The city's Golden Gate Park, Presidio of San Francisco, Mission Dolores Park, and Crissy Field — and more, offering great opportunities to hike, bike, or relax in nature.
  • Sports: Nothing beats the thrill of cheering on the home team at an San Francisco 49ers (NFL), San Francisco Giants (MLB), or Golden State Warriors (NBA) game.

FAQ

When is the best time to move from St. Paul to San Francisco?

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

When is the cheapest time to move from St. Paul to San Francisco?

Because most people are moving from St. Paul to San Francisco 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 St. Paul to San Francisco take?

Moving from St. Paul, MN to San Francisco, CA covers 1,982 miles and usually takes five to 16 days Need to move faster? Some St. Paul movers offer expedited options. If you're not ready to receive your items, look into storage solutions in San Francisco.

Helpful moving resources