When it comes to relocating in the Bay Area or San Francisco, moving a 3-bedroom apartment is no small feat. With the city’s notorious traffic, limited parking, steep hills, and narrow hallways, hiring professional movers isn’t just convenient—it’s essential. But one of the biggest questions people ask is: How much does it actually cost to move a 3-bedroom apartment in San Francisco and the surrounding Bay Area?
In this guide, we break down real-world moving costs, using typical local rates for moving crews and trucks. We’ll explore how long a 3-bedroom move usually takes, the cost ranges based on mover size, hidden fees to watch out for, and how to save money on your next move.
Understanding Standard Rates for Local Movers
Before jumping into cost estimates, it’s important to understand how local moving companies charge in the Bay Area. Most charge by the hour and the size of the crew.
Here are the standard hourly rates we’re using for our calculations:
- 2 Movers + 1 Truck: $159/hour
- 3 Movers + 1 Truck: $199/hour
- 4 Movers + 1 Truck: $249/hour
These prices usually include the truck, labor, basic moving equipment (like dollies and straps), and sometimes moving blankets. They may or may not include fuel surcharges, long carry fees, or stairs charges, which we’ll discuss later.
How Long Does It Take to Move a 3-Bedroom Apartment?
The time it takes to move a 3-bedroom apartment in the Bay Area can vary based on:
- Number of movers
- Stairs or elevators
- Parking situation
- Distance between old and new place
- Volume of items and how well packed they are
- Special items like pianos or safes
That said, on average:
| Movers | Average Time | Total Cost Estimate |
|---|---|---|
| 2 Movers | 8–10 hours | $1,272 – $1,590 |
| 3 Movers | 6–8 hours | $1,194 – $1,592 |
| 4 Movers | 5–7 hours | $1,245 – $1,743 |
As you can see, more movers can actually save you money by reducing the total number of hours required.
Detailed Cost Breakdown by Crew Size
Let’s dive deeper into each moving scenario and calculate total costs based on actual moving time ranges.
Option 1: 2 Movers + 1 Truck = $159/hour
This is a budget-friendly option for lighter 3-bedroom apartments (like minimalists or single parents with fewer items). However, with only two movers, loading and unloading will take significantly longer.
- Estimated Time: 8 to 10 hours
- Cost Calculation:
- 8 hours × $159 = $1,272
- 10 hours × $159 = $1,590
- Best for: Small 3-bedrooms with easy access, no stairs, and short moving distances.
Option 2: 3 Movers + 1 Truck = $199/hour
This is the most common option used for 3-bedroom moves in San Francisco. The extra person speeds things up, often enough to save you money in the long run.
- Estimated Time: 6 to 8 hours
- Cost Calculation:
- 6 hours × $199 = $1,194
- 8 hours × $199 = $1,592
- Best for: Medium-sized 3-bedrooms, average furniture, 1–2 flights of stairs, or elevator access.
Option 3: 4 Movers + 1 Truck = $249/hour
While the hourly rate is higher, you’ll often complete the entire move in half the time of the 2-mover option.
- Estimated Time: 5 to 7 hours
- Cost Calculation:
- 5 hours × $249 = $1,245
- 7 hours × $249 = $1,743
- Best for: Large or fully furnished 3-bedroom apartments, high-rise buildings, or tight schedules.
Factors That Increase the Cost of a 3-Bedroom Move in the Bay Area
Let’s talk about what might cause the final cost to go above average.
1. Stairs or Elevator Delays
If your building doesn’t have an elevator or you live on the third floor or higher, expect to pay more due to the added physical labor and time. Movers often add stairs fees ($50–$100) or long carry fees (if they have to walk a long distance from the truck).
2. Packing Services
If you want movers to pack for you, they charge extra. Packing a 3-bedroom apartment usually takes:
- 2–3 packers
- 4–6 hours
- $150–$250/hour
Expect to pay an additional $600–$1,500 depending on how much you need packed.
3. Special Items
Heavy or delicate items like pianos, artwork, large mirrors, glass dining tables, or safes may require extra movers, special equipment, or even rigging—adding $100–$500 to your final bill.
4. Fuel Surcharges or Travel Fees
Many companies in San Francisco and the Bay Area charge a double-drive time fee—meaning you pay for the time it takes the movers to get to you and return to their base. Fuel surcharges can range from $50 to $150.
Real-Life Moving Scenarios in the Bay Area
Let’s look at a few real-life style scenarios to help you get a clearer picture.
Scenario A: Inner Sunset (SF) to Mission District (SF)
- 3-bedroom, 2nd floor walk-up to 3rd floor walk-up
- Moderate furniture and boxes
- Short driving distance (~4 miles)
Best Option: 3 Movers @ $199/hour
Time: 7 hours
Total: 7 × $199 = $1,393 + $100 stair fee + $80 fuel fee
Grand Total: $1,573
Scenario B: Oakland to Daly City
- 3-bedroom home, driveway access, no stairs
- Fully furnished with some packing assistance needed
- Driving distance: 18 miles
Best Option: 4 Movers @ $249/hour
Time: 6 hours
Total: 6 × $249 = $1,494
Add Packing: $600
Travel Fee: $120
Grand Total: $2,214
Scenario C: San Mateo to San Francisco (Luxury Condo)
- Large 3-bedroom condo, 10th floor with elevator
- Delicate furniture, artwork
- Movers must reserve elevator, deal with building restrictions
Best Option: 4 Movers @ $249/hour
Time: 7 hours
Total: 7 × $249 = $1,743
Elevator wait + fragile item fee: $200
Double drive time fee: $100
Grand Total: $2,043
Tips to Save Money When Moving a 3-Bedroom Apartment
Moving doesn’t have to break the bank. Here are a few insider tips to cut down on costs:
1. Declutter Before You Move
Donate or sell items you don’t need. Fewer items mean fewer hours needed.
2. Pack Yourself
If time allows, do your own packing and labeling. Use free boxes from local stores or Facebook Marketplace.
3. Move Mid-Month or Mid-Week
Avoid weekends and the 1st or last of the month—demand is high, and so are prices.
4. Reserve Building Access in Advance
Book elevator slots and loading zones with your property manager to avoid delays (and extra costs).
5. Be Ready When Movers Arrive
Time is money. Have everything boxed, labeled, and disassembled (like beds or desks) before the movers show up.
Is Hiring Movers in San Francisco Worth It?
Yes, especially for a 3-bedroom move. San Francisco and the Bay Area present unique moving challenges—tight staircases, urban traffic, difficult parking, and labor-intensive loading zones. Doing it yourself might save money upfront, but it could cost more in time, effort, or even injury.
With experienced professionals, you get:
- Peace of mind
- Faster moving process
- Protection for your items
- Insurance coverage
- Fewer chances of last-minute chaos
Conclusion: Budgeting for Your 3-Bedroom Move in the Bay Area
The average cost to move a 3-bedroom apartment in San Francisco and the Bay Area ranges between $1,200 and $1,800, depending on your chosen crew size, complexity of the move, and distance.
- 2 Movers: Great if you’re tight on budget and time is flexible
- 3 Movers: Balanced, efficient, and common for most moves
- 4 Movers: Ideal for big moves, luxury items, or time crunches
No matter what your situation is, having realistic expectations and planning ahead can go a long way in reducing stress—and costs. If you’re preparing for a move, start by getting quotes, checking mover reviews, and estimating the time based on your specific conditions.
Quick Cost Reference Table
| Crew Size | Avg. Time | Hourly Rate | Total Estimated Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2 Movers | 8–10 hours | $159/hr | $1,272–$1,590 |
| 3 Movers | 6–8 hours | $199/hr | $1,194–$1,592 |
| 4 Movers | 5–7 hours | $249/hr | $1,245–$1,743 |
