Quick answer: The cost to move from Albany to San Jose ranges from $2,204 to $9,810 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 2,961-mile move on your own.

Moving the reverse route? We've got you covered with our Moving from San Jose to Albany 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 Albany to San Jose

Picking a long-distance moving company for your journey from Albany to San Jose isn't always easy. With so many choices out there, figuring out who you can really rely on can feel overwhelming.

No need to waste hours comparing moving companies — we've done the work for you. Our top picks stand out for their glowing reviews, affordable rates, and wide range of services to fit any move.

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 NY to CA movetoggle

moveBuddha's expert team analyzed moving rates from 121 New York 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 Albany to San Jose moves

Searching for a dependable local mover in Albany that also provides long-distance services to San Jose 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 Albany 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 Albany to San Jose.

  1. Mabey's Moving & Storage: 4.86 out of 5 stars
  2. Clark Moving & Storage: 4.62 out of 5 stars
  3. Don's Moving & Storage: 4.42 out of 5 stars
  4. Arnoff Moving & Storage: 4.42 out of 5 stars
  5. All-Ways Moving & Storage Co: 4.38 out of 5 stars
https://www.facebook.com/mabeys/, https://twitter.com/mabeysmoving?lang=en
93% of all reviews were positive
7% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Mabey's Moving & Storage stands out with an impressive 92.5% positive feedback from 254 reviews, setting a high bar for moving companies. Customers consistently describe the staff as professional, respectful, and attentive, praising the team's careful handling of belongings and efficient work ethic. Many highlight smooth communication, quick processes from booking to move day, and successful management of complex or long-distance moves.
Most clients recommend Mabey's without hesitation, citing reliable estimates and stress-free experiences as major strengths. Negative input, making up about 7% of feedback, points to issues like damaged items, discrepancies in final costs versus estimates, and communication shortfalls in rare cases. Complaints sometimes reference insurance limitations or mishandling claims. A single neutral review notes both prompt reimbursements and delays during delivery. Compared to typical industry standards, Mabey’s earns stronger praise for care, politeness, and problem resolution, though accurate cost estimation remains an area for improvement. The company's reputation for professionalism and reliability is consistently reinforced by customer input.
Show more
Get a Quote (518) 283-0017

Company Info

State license #: 623

Years in Business: 68

DOT #: 125550


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Storage
https://www.facebook.com/clarkmovingandstorage/, https://twitter.com/clarkmovinginc?lang=en
82% of all reviews were positive
17% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Clark Moving & Storage stands out for delivering reliable results and excellent service, supported by feedback from 81 reviews with over 81% positive ratings. Customers consistently praise their professional and polite staff, careful handling, efficiency, and quick moving process. Many highly recommend the company for making stressful moves feel smooth and straightforward.
Numerous reviewers note clear communication, organized packing, and affordable pricing compared to other moving companies. Some even highlight the movers’ thorough preparation and respect for customers’ belongings. On the downside, less than one in five reviewers cite problems such as damaged items, unexpected charges, or lack of communication. Negative input describes instances where items were broken or missing, or costs changed without warning. By comparison, Clark Moving & Storage regularly delivers a higher level of care and professionalism than most moving companies in the region, though a few dissatisfied customers experienced avoidable setbacks. Clark is a strong option for quality moving services, with overwhelmingly positive feedback and only minor recurring problems.
Show more
Get a Quote (518) 370-4100

Company Info

State license #: 37553

Years in Business: 31

DOT #: 125563

Alternate Names: Clark Moving and Storage, Clark Moving and Storage of Albany


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/DonsMovers/,
95% of all reviews were positive
5% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Don's Moving & Storage scores high marks from customers, with nearly 95% of input expressing satisfaction. Clients single out the team's efficient service, professionalism, careful handling of items, quick moves, and a positive, friendly staff as defining traits. Movers consistently offer supportive care during stressful transitions and make a point of being courteous and respectful.
Negative feedback, in contrast, centers largely on unexpected or high final costs, occasional damage to items, and rare instances of unprofessional or dismissive behavior. Communication around pricing and damage claims draws the most frequent complaints. Compared to competitors, Don’s stands out for reliability, speed, and a personable touch, though clients recommend clarifying terms in advance for the smoothest results. With over 250 positive reviews, most customers consider Don’s a top choice for moving in the region.
Show more
Get a Quote (518) 492-1041

Company Info

State license #: 1462

Years in Business: 75

DOT #: 134890


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Grandfather clocks
  • Crating
  • Crane vans
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Safes
  • DOD certified
https://www.facebook.com/ArnoffMoving/,
64% of all reviews were positive
34% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Arnoff Moving & Storage stands out for its consistently professional, courteous staff, efficient moving teams, and excellent care in handling belongings—earning praise in nearly two-thirds of the 238 customer feedback items reviewed. Customers frequently commend their strong communication, punctual crews, and smooth, quick-moving experiences. People highlight Arnoff’s attention to detail, competitive pricing, and a willingness to answer questions or resolve logistical challenges, often noting how their movers made stressful moves less overwhelming. Yet, nearly one in three customers report serious complaints, with the chief frustrations being damaged or lost items, lengthy delivery delays, and poor follow-up when problems arise.
Reports include mishandling of valuable furniture, missed scheduling windows, and a lack of responsiveness from support staff. A few critics point to problems with insurance claims for damage or missing property, suggesting performance can be inconsistent, especially for large or high-value moves. Compared to similar moving companies, Arnoff generally exceeds expectations for professionalism and efficiency, but the risk of communication breakdowns and damaged goods appears higher than average. Prospective customers seeking attentive and careful handling will likely be pleased, but those with complex, valuable shipments should confirm all details ahead and document any special requirements.
Show more
Get a Quote (518) 463-5525

Company Info

State license #: 35196

Years in Business: 99

DOT #: 1566123

Alternate Names: Arnoff Moving & Storage (poughkeepsie, Ny)


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
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Safes
  • Pay by cash
  • Deposit Required
  • DOD certified
https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100063654004220, https://twitter.com/MarybethArcham4
97% of all reviews were positive
3% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Customers rave about All-Ways Moving & Storage Co, consistently praising their professionalism, efficient service, and fast-moving crews. Nearly all customer input is positive, with 97% giving glowing feedback out of 62 reviews. Clients highlight good communication, quick moving processes, and highly recommend the staff for moves big and small.
The team’s attention to detail, careful handling, and flexible approach set them apart from other moving companies, especially when accommodating date changes or special requests. Some customer input shines a light on billing often coming in below initial estimates and on the team’s respectful handling of property. On the downside, a small portion of feedback points to concerns with inaccurate estimates, occasional communication breakdowns, and isolated incidents of damage to belongings. Unlike many competitors, All-Ways Moving has a reputation for exceeding expectations and building trust, making them a go-to choice for stress-free relocations.
Show more
Get a Quote (413) 499-1577

Company Info

Years in Business: 46

DOT #: 55254

Alternate Names: AllWays Moving, Inc.


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Pay by credit card

How much does it cost to move from Albany to San Jose?

Albany movers charge $115 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 $1,529 - $6,510 $1,852 - $4,392 $2,035 - $3,791
2 - 3 bedrooms $4,701 - $9,810 $3,381 - $6,470 $2,204 - $4,749
4+ bedrooms $8,581 - $14,044 $4,536 - $9,399 $2,815 - $5,715
*These price ranges are a rough estimate based on 2,961 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 New York to California

Planning a move from New York to California? For a studio or one-bedroom, you'll likely pay between $1,529 and $6,510. If you have a two- or three-bedroom home, expect costs to fall somewhere between $4,701 and $9,810 for the same journey (NY to CA). Moving four or five bedrooms? Typical prices range from $8,581 to $14,044.

Cost of moving containers from New York to California

Moving containers from New York to California will cost you $1,852 to $4,392 for a small move. For a two- to three-bedroom move, moving containers can cost $3,381 to $6,470. A four-bedroom move or bigger will cost $4,536 to $9,399. Learn more about PODS cost.

Here are the cheapest moving container companies when moving out of New York.

Cost of moving truck rentals from New York to California

Looking to save money? Renting a moving truck is usually your cheapest option. Just keep in mind that you'll handle all the lifting, packing, and driving yourself.

If you're moving out of a studio or one-bedroom and renting a truck, plan to spend between $2,035 and $3,791. For two- or three-bedroom moves, prices typically land between $2,204 and $4,749. Dealing with a four-bedroom-plus home? Expect rental truck costs to be somewhere between $2,815 and $5,715.

These cost ranges already include estimated fuel costs.

Key factors that influence moving costs from Albany to San Josetoggle

The cost of Albany movers will depend on:

  • Amount of belongings: Moving costs go up with more stuff. A move from Albany to San Jose might cost just $1,529 for a one-bedroom, but up to $13,926 for a four-bedroom.
  • When you move: Summer is peak moving season in Albany, which means movers charge more during those months.
  • DIY or hire help: You can save by going the DIY route. Rental trucks cost between $2,035 and $5,057, though you'll be doing the hard work vs letting the pros handle it.

What to know before moving from Albany to San Jose

Moving from Albany to San Jose comes with exciting new opportunities — but also higher living costs. Since San Jose is generally more expensive than Albany, 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:

Albany San Jose
Average rent cost $1,450 $3,095
Average home value $281,584 $1,453,657
Average income (per capita) $66,546 $83,421
Cost of living (single person) $1,801 $3,674
Cost of living (family of 4) $4,205 $8,354
Unemployment rate 7.1% 6.6%
Sales tax 8.0% 9.38%
State income tax 10.9% 13.3%
  • You may want to budget more for rent in San Jose, since prices are typically 113% higher than in Albany.
  • The home prices in San Jose are 416.2% higher than in Albany, 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 Jose, where incomes are, on average, 25.4% higher than in Albany. Major employers in San Jose include Cisco Systems, Western Digital, and Infineon Technologies.
  • Be sure to budget for higher bills in San Jose, since the cost of living for a single person in San Jose is 104.0% higher than in Albany. This includes routine expenses like utilities, groceries, clothing, and transportation.
  • If you're moving your family to San Jose, keep in mind that your living expenses could increase. The cost of living for a family in San Jose is 98.7% higher than in Albany.
  • The unemployment rate in San Jose is 7.04% lower than in Albany.
  • Shopping and dining out will likely be a little pricier in San Jose, since its sales taxes are 17.25% higher than what you are paying in Albany.
  • State income taxes in San Jose are 22.02% higher than in Albany.

To put this in perspective, you would need around $6,119.93 in San Jose to maintain the same standard of life that you can have with $3,000.00 in Albany.

How life is different in Albany vs. San Jose

San Jose Albany
Population 971,233 99,224
AllTransit Transportation Performance Score 7 8
Walkability score 51 65
Bike friendliness score 62 55
Crime Index 47.73 10.0
Safety Index 52.27 49.65
Air Quality Moderate Good
  • The population of San Jose is about 879% greater than Albany, 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.
  • Getting around San Jose without a car might be more difficult than in Albany. San Jose has a public transportation score of 7 out of 10, whereas Albany is ranked 8. Ratings are based on a city's transit connectivity, service frequency, and accessibility to key destinations like jobs and grocery stores.
  • San Jose neighborhoods and districts might not be as easy to navigate on foot as Albany. Based on its score of 51 out of 100, San Jose isn't as walkable as Albany, which has a score of 65 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.
  • If cycling is your thing, San Jose is considered more bike-friendly than Albany in terms of designated lanes and connectivity and how many residents opt to commute on two wheels rather than by car. San Jose has a bike-friendliness score of 62 out of 100, while Albany is rated as 55 out of 100.
  • The crime rate in San Jose is higher than in Albany, so you may want to exercise a little extra caution as you're acclimating to your new location. While the crime index is 47.73 in San Jose, it is 10.0 in Albany. With this index, the lower the score, the better, since it indicates a city's crime levels.
  • San Jose is generally as safe as Albany, according to their similar safety index ratings. The ratings are based on how comfortable residents feel about walking alone during the daytime and nighttime and the number of small crimes like theft and muggings.
  • The air quality in San Jose isn't as good as it is in Albany, so you may want to take precautions if you suffer from conditions like allergies or asthma. San Jose has an air quality rating of Moderate, and Albany 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 Albany vs. San Jose move

  • Weather: San Jose, like most of the Bay Area, has warm to hot, dry summers and mild to cool, wet winters. The city is somewhat more sheltered from rain, giving it a semi-arid feel
  • 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 Jose. 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 Jose

Now that you've chosen Man Jose as your next home, here are a few of the best neighborhoods in San Jose to check out.

Best neighborhoods for singles

  • Burbank
  • Downtown
  • Evergreen
  • West San Jose
  • Willow Glen

Best neighborhoods for families

  • Berryessa
  • Cambrian Park
  • Evergreen
  • West San Jose
  • Willow Glen

Things to do in San Jose

Once you're settled into your new home in California, it's time to get out and discover what San Jose has to offer. No matter your interests, there's something for everyone here:

  • Arts and culture: You'll find museums and cultural hubs throughout San Jose, such as the Rosicrucian Egyptian Museum, Children's Discovery Museum, The Tech Interactive, San Jose Museum of Art, and New Almaden Mercury Mining Museum.
  • Outdoor recreation: The city's Almaden Quicksilver County Park, Alum Rock Park, Emma Prusch Farm Park, and Plaza de Cesar Chavez Park — 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 San Jose Barracuda (AHL), San Jose Earthquakes (MLS), San Jose Giants (California League), or San Jose Sharks (NHL) game.

FAQ

When is the best time to move from Albany to San Jose?

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

When is the cheapest time to move from Albany to San Jose?

Because most people are moving from Albany to San Jose 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 Albany to San Jose take?

Moving from Albany, NY to San Jose, CA covers 2,961 miles and usually takes seven to 21 days Need to move faster? Some Albany movers offer expedited options. If you're not ready to receive your items, look into storage solutions in San Jose.

Helpful moving resources