Newark, NJ to Oakland, CA Movers (NEW 2026 Costs)
Quick answer: Moving from Newark to Oakland typically costs $4,100–$8,500 with full-service movers for a 2–3 bedroom home (about 2,886 miles). Use our moving cost calculator below to get an instant estimate.
|
|
|
 rating
4.2 / 5
Licensed
Insured
Price
|
Cost to move from Newark to Oakland
Moving from Newark, NJ to Oakland, CA typically costs $4,100–$8,500 with full-service movers for a 2–3 bedroom home.
The price ranges below are estimates for a 2,886-mile move from Newark to Oakland, based on moveBuddha pricing data as of Mar 16, 2026. Pricing is updated monthly to reflect seasonality and market changes.
Studio / 1 bedroom
|
2-3 bedrooms
|
4+ bedrooms
|
Recent moving quotes for similar moves
- 1-800-Pack-Rat recently quoted $2,957 for a 1 bedroom (small) using a moving container.
- Colonial Van Lines recently quoted $3,389 for a 1 bedroom (large) using professional movers.
- Safeway Moving recently quoted $8,988 for a 4 bedroom using professional movers.
1 Bedroom (small)
Feb 16, 2026
1 Bedroom (large)
Feb 11, 2026
4 Bedrooms
Feb 10, 2026
2 Bedrooms
Feb 08, 2026
1 Bedroom (small)
Jan 25, 2026
Studio apartment
Jan 10, 2026
1 Bedroom (small)
Jan 06, 2026
5+ Bedrooms
Dec 27, 2025
Studio apartment
Dec 26, 2025
1 Bedroom (small)
Dec 24, 2025
Major factors affecting moving costs from Newark to Oakland
Your total cost will depend on:
- Move size: The cost of your move depends on how much you’re bringing. A one-bedroom from Newark to Oakland might be as low as $2,900, while a four-bedroom could reach $13,300.
- When you move: Moving in summer often costs more, since it’s the busiest season for movers in Newark.
- DIY moves vs. full-service help: Truck rentals cost less — around $1,800 to $5,000 — but you’ll handle all the labor vs. letting professionals do it.
Moving the opposite route? We got you covered with our moving from Oakland, CA to Newark, NJ guide.
Best Newark to Oakland movers by type
Professional
|
Local
|
Container
|
Rental Truck
|
Labor Only
|
Best professional movers from Newark to Oakland
When it comes to handling your interstate move from Newark to Oakland, entrusting professionals with the details is often the best decision. Full-service movers are equipped to manage everything, allowing you to concentrate on settling into your new place.
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 NJ→CA movers
moveBuddha's expert team analyzed moving rates from 86 New Jersey movers and listed the top movers based on customer satisfaction, reviews, and cost.
- Customer satisfaction (40%): The organization reliably provides services punctually, maintains clear communication, and stays within the anticipated budget.
- Dispute resolution (20%): Since mistakes are inevitable in moving, we value movers that accept responsibility and work hard to correct issues when they occur.
- Industry reputation (15%): The organization is recognized in the industry and takes part in professional gatherings and associations.
- Online reputation (15%): The company’s reputation online is supported by a well-maintained website and prompt, professional engagement with customer questions.
- 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.
What to know before moving from Newark to Oakland
Expect a bump in monthly expenses after the move - Oakland runs about 22% higher for singles and 53% higher for families than Newark.
Singles spend around $3,146 in Oakland versus $2,575 in Newark; families pay $8,584 compared with $5,617.
Dig into the side-by-side details here:
| Newark | Oakland | |
|---|---|---|
| Average 1 BR rent | $2,333 | $1,969 |
| Average 3 BR rent | $3,300 | $4,450 |
| Average home value | $475,797 | $736,156 |
| Average income (per capita) | $41,335 | $94,389 |
| Cost of living (single) | $2,575 | $3,146 |
| Cost of living (family of four) | $5,617 | $8,584 |
| Unemployment rate | 13.0% | 4.5% |
| Sales tax | 6.63% | 10.25% |
| State income tax | 10.7% | 13.3% |
- Switching from Newark to Oakland won't strain your budget, as rent prices are nearly identical.
- A larger mortgage budget will be necessary since home prices are about 55% higher in Oakland than in Newark.
- Exciting news here, the average income is about 128% higher in Oakland than in Newark, so you should have more to save or invest each month.
- Anticipate increased living expenses in Oakland, as the cost of living for a single person in Oakland is 22% greater than in Newark. This covers typical expenses like utilities, groceries, clothing, and transport.
- As you plan your move to Oakland, consider the possibility of increased living costs. The cost of living for a family there is 53% more than it is in Newark.
- With an unemployment rate approximately 65% lower than Newark, Oakland boasts a favorable employment scene and thriving economic conditions, ideal for new arrivals.
- Sales taxes in Oakland exceed those in Newark by 55%, which can mean paying extra for usual purchases like clothes and electronics.
- Income taxes are 24% higher in California than in New Jersey. This means a larger portion of your earnings will go to state taxes, potentially reducing your take-home pay.
Take a detailed look at how everyday expenses stack up between Newark and Oakland, from monthly bills to routine purchases:
| Living Expense | Newark | Oakland |
|---|---|---|
| Basic utilities | $211.42 | $277.25 |
| Cell phone plan | $57.98 | $53.00 |
| Dozen eggs | $5.74 | $6.71 |
| Loaf of bread | $4.40 | $5.09 |
| Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) | $19.00 | $30.00 |
| Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) | $79.50 | $140.00 |
| Gym membership | $30.00 | $54.28 |
- Basic utilities cost less in Newark than in Oakland, helping trim your monthly bills.
- Cell phone plans typically cost more in Newark than in Oakland.
- Eggs are less expensive in Newark than in Oakland.
- Bread costs less in Newark than in Oakland.
- A quick meal is cheaper in Newark than in Oakland.
- A mid-range dinner for two costs less in Newark than in Oakland.
- Gym memberships are more affordable in Newark than in Oakland.
How life is different in Newark vs. Oakland
| Newark | Oakland | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 304,960 | 440,646 |
| Transportation score | 9 | 8 |
| Walkability score | 76 | 75 |
| Bike friendliness score | 51 | 65 |
| Crime index | 75.24 | 68.62 |
| Safety index | 24.76 | 31.38 |
| Air quality | Good | Good |
- Oakland's population is about 44% greater than Newark.
- Oakland's public transportation score of 8 out of 10 is lower than Newark's score of 9.
- Oakland and Newark are similarly walkable.
- With a score of 65 out of 100, Oakland is more bike-friendly than Newark, which has a score of 51 out of 100. The higher a city's score, the more suited it is to safely accommodating cyclists.
- Oakland's crime rate is lower than Newark with a score of 68.62 compared to Newark's 75.24. This means that Oakland neighborhoods are safer than 68.62% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Newark neighborhoods are safer than 75.24%.
- Oakland is considered to be safer than Newark with a safety index of 31.38 vs Newark's 24.76.
- Air quality in Oakland is Good, and in Newark it's Good.
Other things to consider for your Newark to Oakland move
- HOA rules: To keep things running smoothly, make sure you're familiar with any HOA or community moving policies before the big day.
- Elevator reservation: If there is an elevator in your building, it's a good idea to secure a reservation before your moving day.
- Truck parking permits: Research parking requirements in your destination city to ensure your truck won’t run into restrictions.
- 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 check the status of a California moving license through the state's public utilities commission.
- Moving Permits: You won't need a moving permit in California, though it's smart to double-check any local parking restrictions ahead of your move.
- Change of address: We recommend submitting your USPS change of address form at least one week before your move to ensure your mail gets forwarded to Oakland without delay. You can select your official move date when completing the form. Start the process here.
- Moving company insurance: State laws differ on mover 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 Oakland
Ready to relocate to The Town? Here are some of the top neighborhoods to consider in Oakland.
Best neighborhoods for singles
- Downtown
- Grand Lake
- Piedmont Avenue
- Rockridge
- Temescal
Best neighborhoods for families
- Fairview Park
- Rockridge
- Bushrod
- Upper Rockridge
- Lakeshore
Things to do in Oakland
Now that you've made the move to California, it's the perfect time to explore Oakland. From local hotspots to hidden gems, there's something to enjoy for every lifestyle:
- Arts and culture: Cultural attractions in Oakland include museums and art centers like the Oakland Museum of California, Chabot Space & Science Center, USS Potomac, and Oakland Aviation Museum.
- Outdoor recreation: Outdoor lovers will appreciate Redwood Regional Park, Joaquin Miller Park, East Bay Regional Park District, and Lakeside Park and Garden Center, along with many other spots perfect for walking, cycling, and fresh air adventures.
- Sports: Catch a live game and cheer on the home team at an Oakland Athletics (MLB)Oakland Roots DC (USLC) game.
FAQ
When is the best time to move from Newark to Oakland?
Spring and fall are the ideal times to move from Newark to Oakland. You'll benefit from more comfortable weather and avoid the higher prices that come with peak moving season in Newark.
When is the cheapest time to move from Newark to Oakland?
With many people choosing to move from Newark to Oakland in spring or fall, winter moves often come with better rates. Take a look at our moving discounts guide to find out how to save.
How long does a move from Newark to Oakland take?
Covering 2,886 miles, the move from Newark, NJ to Oakland, CA typically takes seven to 21 days. Some Newark movers may offer faster options, and if your timing is flexible, storage services in Oakland can help bridge the gap.
Do movers in Newark offer any discounts?
Many do — and the types of discounts available can help you cut costs. 2 movers in Newark offer AAA member savings. 8 movers provide military discounts. 9 movers extend senior citizen discounts.
Because offers change, confirm details with your mover to make sure you’re getting the most out of available deals.
How many movers in Newark can handle specialty items for my move to Oakland?
Specialty moving services aren’t offered by every company. In Newark, 138 movers can handle pianos. 111 offer antique moving services. Compared to the rest of NJ, there are 77 piano movers and 60 antique movers, while nationwide the numbers are 2,296 and 1,463 respectively.
If you need these services, it’s best to book early — availability can be limited, especially during peak moving months.
