Moving Guide
The Best Moving Companies for Moving from New York to San Francisco in 2026
Quick Overview: Need to hire movers for your New York to San Francisco relocation? We've compiled a list of the top moving companies to help with your cross-country move. Our pick for the best long-distance moving company from NYC to SF is Safeway Moving.
Relocating from New York to San Francisco? Whether you're moving for a tech job, lifestyle change, or to be closer to family, hiring a cross-country moving company can help make your 2,900-mile transition easier. We've researched and compiled a list of the best movers for New York to San Francisco relocations—based on reputation, reviews, and more—to help you ask the important questions and make the right decision for your move. Check out our guide to the best moving companies for New York to San Francisco moves below!
Best Long-Distance Moving Companies for New York to San Francisco
When looking for the best NYC to SF movers, be sure to consider transparent pricing, current USDOT registration, positive customer reviews, solid insurance coverage, and proven experience with cross-country moves. Below are our top recommendations for New York to San Francisco moving companies.
Moving Company | Price | Residential Move | Commercial Move |
Allied Van Lines | $$-$$$ | ✔ | ✔ |
California New York Express Movers | $-$$ | ✔ | |
International Van Lines | $$-$$$ | ✔ | |
Safeway Moving | $-$$ | ✔ | ✔ |
United Van Lines | $-$$ | ✔ | ✔ |
Allied Van Lines
✔ Licensed ✔ Insured
Services Offered:
Long-Distance Moving
International Moving
Residential Moving
Corporate Relocation
Military Moving
Packing Services
From Allied Van Lines: "Allied Van Lines has the largest mover network in the world combined with over 95 years of experience. Whether you are relocating long distance or locally, our global network ensures that no matter where you're going, Allied can get you home. As a full-service mover, we handle everything from packing, loading, transporting, and unpacking your belongings. Our mission is to provide affordable moving services backed by a name you can trust. We are a company built on a history of service, and it is our pleasure to assist you as you plan and prepare for your next move."
California New York Express Movers
✔ Licensed ✔ Insured
Services Offered:
Long-Distance Moving
Residential Moving
Assembly & Disassembly
Full or Partial Packing & Unpacking
From California New York Express Movers: "Ensuring that your items will arrive safely is top consideration when choosing a cross country moving company. Our customers rest easy knowing that when it comes to keeping their belongings safe, we are among the top cross country moving companies in the USA, and definitely within the New York to California route."
International Van Lines
✔ Licensed ✔ Insured
Services Offered:
Local Moving
Long-Distance Moving
International Moving
Auto Transport
Professional Packing
From International Van Lines: "Named the best moving company by Forbes, U.S. News, USA Today, and Better Homes and Gardens, International Van Lines (IVL) offers premium, affordable moving services. We are dedicated to making your move simple, secure, and cost-effective."
Safeway Moving
✔ Licensed ✔ Insured
Services Offered:
Local Moving
Long-Distance Moving
Household Moving
Apartment Moving
Office Moving
Corporate Relocation
Piano Moving
Freight Moving
Professional Packing
From Safeway Moving: "At Safeway Moving, we redefine the moving experience by combining military precision with heartfelt customer care. Founded by a U.S. military veteran, our mission is rooted in integrity, innovation, and reliability. Equipped with cutting-edge technology, a highly trained team, and an unwavering commitment to excellence, we ensure your long-distance move is seamless and stress-free."
United Van Lines
✔ Licensed ✔ Insured
Services Offered:
Local Moving
Long-Distance Moving
International Moving
Corporate Moving
Military Moving
Car Shipping
Logistics Management
Packing & Unpacking
Debris Pickup Services
Add-On Service Packages
From United Van Lines: "Whether you are relocating for work, family or simply for a change of scenery, United understands the mixture of emotions and challenges you may encounter when preparing for a long-distance move. United simplifies long-distance moving. As a leader in the long-distance moving industry, we strive to integrate the latest technology, top-notch customer service and federal highway safety regulation standards that put people first."
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Average Cost to Move from New York City to San Francisco
On average, a cross-country move from New York to San Francisco costs between $8,843 for a studio apartment to $18,404 for a home with five or more bedrooms. Long-distance moves are typically priced based on total distance and the weight or volume of your belongings. Other factors that can impact long-distance moving costs include the time of year you move, the moving company you choose, the exact distance to your new home, and any special services you select. Plus, unexpected costs like moving supplies, fuel, transportation, and temporary storage and accommodations can factor into total moving costs. If you're moving on a budget, try decluttering before your move to decrease the volume of your items, or consider a DIY move to save money.
Cost of Hiring NYC to SF Movers
The cost of hiring a professional New York to San Francisco moving company can vary based on the size of your home, with studio apartment moves starting at $8,843 and 5+ bedroom moves starting at $10,643. Use the estimated costs below to help you figure out total moving costs.
Home Size | Professional Movers Cost |
Studio or Dorm | $8,843 - $14,804 |
1 Bedroom | $8,943 - $15,004 |
2 Bedrooms | $9,343 - $15,804 |
3 Bedrooms | $9,643 - $16,404 |
4 Bedrooms | $10,143 - $17,404 |
5+ Bedrooms | $10,643 - $18,404 |
Moving costs have been calculated with the Extra Space Storage Moving Calculator.
Timeline for Moving from New York to San Francisco
Whether you've been planning ahead or you're navigating a last-minute relocation, a moving checklist can help you stay organized and reduce moving stress. Use the timeline below to guide your move from New York to San Francisco.
8-12 Weeks Before Moving
Research San Francisco neighborhoods
Research New York to San Francisco movers & ask for quotes to compare moving costs
Declutter your home & sell, donate, or throw out unwanted items
Create an inventory list & organize by room
If you're renting, confirm your move-out date with your landlord
6-8 Weeks Before Moving
Find free & cheap moving boxes in NYC at grocery stores, recycling centers, & more
Purchase remaining packing supplies (e.g., bubble cushion, moving blankets, packing tape)
Book your chosen moving company
Make necessary travel arrangements & lodging plans
3-4 Weeks Before Moving
Create a packing schedule
Pack & label moving boxes by room
Service your vehicle for your cross-country move
File an official change of address with the U.S. Postal Service & notify important service providers
Set up a start date with utility providers at your new home
1-2 Weeks Before Moving
Confirm all moving arrangements & travel plans
Finish packing & put together an essentials box (important personal documents, first-aid items, nonperishable snacks, etc.)
Transfer medical records
Clean your NYC home
Moving Week
Prep for moving your items with floor, carpet, & door frame protectors
Do a final walkthrough
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to move from NYC to SF?
A cross-country move from New York to San Francisco typically costs between $8,800 and $18,400, depending on home size. Final costs vary based on how much you’re moving, the time of year, and any added services. To keep costs down, declutter before moving, ask for quotes from multiple companies to compare rates, and consider moving some of your items yourself.
Is it cheaper to live in NYC or San Francisco?
Both New York City and San Francisco have higher-than-average costs of living, but San Francisco is generally more affordable. San Francisco's cost of living is about 65% higher than the national average, while New York's is 131.5% higher—meaning those moving from NYC to SF may see noticeable savings.
How long does it take to move from New York to San Francisco?
Moving from NYC to San Francisco typically takes about a week for transit, though timelines can vary based on distance, shipment size, weather, and the moving company's schedule. When factoring in packing and unpacking, the full moving process often spans several weeks.
When is the best time of year to move from New York to San Francisco?
The best time of year to move depends on your priorities. Summer is popular with families who want to relocate before the school year, but it's also more expensive and harder to schedule due to high demand. Winter typically offers the lowest prices, but weather can cause delays. Spring and fall often strike a nice balance, with moderate costs, more scheduling flexibility, and generally favorable weather.
Our Methodology & Recommendation
To help you find a moving company you can trust, we carefully reviewed moving companies that service the New York to San Francisco route based on key factors like proper licensing & insurance, cross-country experience, positive reviews, service offerings, and more. Keep in mind that the right mover for you may vary depending on your budget, scheduling needs, and the specific services you're looking for.
Based on our methodology, the best long-distance moving company for New York to San Francisco relocations is Safeway Moving.
Free Guides & Resources for Moving from NYC to SF
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Need a storage unit to hold your belongings during your cross-country move? Extra Space Storage has reliable storage facilities located in the New York metro, San Francisco Bay Area, and across the U.S. Find self storage near you!
The moving companies listed on this page are independent third parties. Extra Space Storage does not own or operate these companies and is not responsible for their services, pricing, or conduct. References to these companies do not constitute endorsements or guarantees. Customers are encouraged to conduct their own due diligence before engaging any mover.
Author Profile
Quinn Johnson
Quinn Johnson is a moving expert and author for Extra Space Storage. He's moved over 15 times, including internationally, and helped countless others between their own homes. He's happy to lift some boxes for a friend as long as he's paid in pizza. As a writer and content creator for Extra Space Storage since 2019, Quinn shares helpful moving tips and info to alleviate the common stresses of moving.
