($1,620) Movers From Seattle, WA to Fresno, CA

What to know before moving from Seattle to Fresno

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

Check out how Seattle compares to Fresno so you know what to expect before you relocate:

• Rent prices in Fresno are 17% lower than in Seattle, 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 Fresno.
  Home prices in Fresno are 54.7% lower than in Seattle.
• Income in Fresno is 19.1% lower than in Seattle, so you could earn less for doing the same job. The top employers in Fresno include Community Hospitals of Central California, Fresno City College, and PrideStaff.
• The cost of living for a single person in Fresno is 39.1% lower than in Seattle. This includes routine expenses like utilities, groceries, clothing, and transportation.
• The cost of living for a family in Fresno is 45.3% lower than in Seattle.
• The unemployment rate in Fresno is 47.71% higher than in Seattle.
• You’ll spend less on retail and restaurants in Fresno, since the city’s sales taxes in Fresno are 22.90% lower than in Seattle.
• State income taxes in Fresno are 13.30% higher than in Seattle.

To put this in perspective, you would need around $1,826.47 in Fresno to maintain the same standard of life that you can have with $3,000.00 in Seattle.

How life is different in Seattle vs. Fresno

• Fresno's population is about 26% less than Seattle.
• Fresno's public transportation has a score of 5 out of 10 versus Seattle's higher score of 8.
• Fresno is less walkable than Seattle with a score of 47 out of 100 vs Seattle's 74 out of 100.
• Fresno has a bike-friendliness score 58 out of 100, which means it isn't as accessible to and safe for cyclists as Seattle, which has a score of 71 out of 100.
• Fresno and Seattle have a similar crime rate.
• Fresno is considered to be less safe than Seattle with a score of 43.15 vs Seattle's 49.23.
• Air quality in Fresno is moderate, and in Seattle it's good.

Other things to consider for your Seattle vs. Fresno move

• Weather: Fresno has mild, wet winters and very long, hot, dry summers.
• HOA rules: It’s a good idea to look into your HOA or community regulations before moving day arrives.
• Elevator reservation: If your building has an elevator, it’s a good idea to secure a reservation before your moving day.
• Truck parking permits: To avoid fines or delays, check whether a parking permit is needed for your moving truck.
• 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. Before booking, ensure the moving company is officially licensed to handle your move.
• State regulator: To confirm a moving company’s license in California, visit the state's public utilities commission
• Moving permits: While California doesn’t mandate moving permits, checking local parking guidelines before your move-in day is still a good idea.
• 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 Fresno without delay. You can select your official move date when completing the form. Start the process here.
• Moving company insurance: Every state sets its own rules for what insurance moving companies need to maintain. 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 gives you the peace of mind that comes with being fully prepared.

Where to live in Fresno

With your sights set on "", these are some of the most popular neighborhoods to consider in Fresno.

Helpful moving resources