($1,296) Cost to Move From Seattle, WA to Oakland, CA

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2. On The Go Moving and Storage: 4.64 out of 5 stars
3. College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving: 4.58 out of 5 stars
4. Seattle Movers: 4.56 out of 5 stars
5. Hansen Bros Moving and Storage: 4.58 out of 5 stars

Cost to hire movers from Seattle to Oakland

Moving a studio or one-bedroom home from Seattle to Oakland typically costs between $1,296 and $4,785. For a two- or three-bedroom home, expect prices to fall between $2,650 and $6,082 when moving from Seattle to Oakland. If you’re tackling a large move (think four or five bedrooms) from Seattle to Oakland, you’re looking at costs ranging from $4,467 up to $8,905.

Cost of moving containers from Seattle to Oakland

If you’re relocating from Seattle to Oakland, you’ll typically spend between $784 and $1,754 for a small move. Have a two or three-bedroom home? Plan for costs to range from $1,328 up to $2,776. If you’re moving a larger home — four bedrooms or more — expect to pay anywhere between $1,855 and $3,412. For a full breakdown, check out our complete PODS cost guide.

Explore our top budget-friendly moving container companies for your move from Washington.

Cost of moving truck rentals from Seattle to Oakland

Renting a moving truck is typically the most budget-friendly choice for a Seattle to Oakland move, but remember, you’ll be responsible for all the heavy lifting, packing, and driving on your own.

If you’re moving from a studio or one-bedroom place with a rental truck, expect to pay between $528 and $1,038. For a two- or three-bedroom move, costs usually range from $582 to $1,184. If you’re tackling a four-bedroom or bigger move, your rental truck will likely run between $775 and $1,465.

Estimated fuel costs are already factored into these quotes.

• Consider this before moving: Rent can be about 11% higher in Oakland than in Seattle, which may impact your monthly finances.
• With home prices being nearly 13% cheaper in Oakland, your mortgage budget will remain the same without any significant changes.
• Exciting news here, the average income is about 21% higher in Oakland than in Seattle, so you should have more to save or invest each month.
• Prepare to enjoy reduced routine costs such as groceries, fuel, and utilities in Oakland. The cost of living for a single person is 16% less compared to Seattle.
• Relocating to Oakland could provide savings on routine expenses for your family, including transportation, utilities, and groceries. The cost of living for a family is 12% lower than in Seattle.
• With an unemployment rate approximately 6% lower than Seattle, Oakland boasts a favorable employment scene and thriving economic conditions, ideal for new arrivals.
• Sales taxes are effectively the same in Oakland and Seattle (within a 5% range), allowing you to focus on other financial aspects when moving.
• California has a state income tax, while Washington does not. That means you’ll owe more in taxes after your move, reducing your take-home pay compared to what you’re used to.

• Oakland’s population is about 40% less than Seattle.
• Oakland’s public transportation score is within about 5% of Seattle, making them very similar.
• Oakland and Seattle are similarly walkable.
• Oakland has a bike-friendliness score of 65 out of 100, which means it isn’t as accessible or safe for cyclists as Seattle, which has a score of 71.
• Oakland’s crime rate is higher than Seattle with a score of 68.62 compared to Seattle’s 58.88. This means that Oakland neighborhoods are safer than 68.62% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Seattle neighborhoods are safer than 58.88%.
• Oakland is considered to be less safe than Seattle with a score of 31.38 vs Seattle’s 49.23.
• Air quality in Oakland is Good, and in Seattle it’s Good.

• 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.

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.