Moving from San Jose, CA to Reno, NV

Moving from San Jose, CA to Reno, NV

To go from the third-largest city in California to the most populous city outside of the Las Vegas metropolitan area is somewhat of a novelty, but that’s mostly considering the city of Reno’s nickname, “The Biggest Little City in the World.” Reno is situated in a high desert valley at the base of the Sierra Nevada mountain range, and is known for its casinos and resorts. Quite literally a gateway to the Old West, Reno is steeped in rich, vibrant history that’s visible from nearly every street corner. Aside from the glamour of the lights and sounds of the city, Reno offers beautiful views in Nevada’s northwest region of the state. From gaming to family entertainment, museums, festivals, outdoor activities, excellent cuisine, art, and culture, there’s something for everyone in Reno!

Traveling from San Jose to Reno

  • San Jose is not far at all from Reno, only about four hours, making the drive a breeze if you set off in the morning or afternoon. You could even drive overnight if you so desired!
  • If you’re looking to make the trip a little more interesting, and ultimately a few hours longer, you might want to stop in the cities of Concord, Sacramento, Auburn, or Truckee!
  • Catch a show at Concord’s Sleep Train Pavilion, or take some time out and visit Waterworld California! In Sacramento, visit Sacramento Zoo or the Crocker Art Museum!
  • In Auburn, check out Bernhard Museum or visit the Auburn Dam! Truckee is great for sightseeing, from Donner Lake to the Boca Reservoir, and Castle Peak to Trout Creek!

Climate in Reno

  • The high desert brings with it a few mystical terms like rain shadow and evapotranspiration, which explain Reno’s low rainfall and inexplicable steppe climate.
  • 92 F is the average summer high for July, Reno’s hottest month, and thanks to the Sierra Nevada’s aforementioned rain shadow not much rain helps to cool off the heat.
  • Like many semi-arid desert climates, Reno’s experiences cold winters that reach below freezing on average starting in November, with 23 F being the lowest of all!

Transportation in Reno

  • There are two freeways serving Reno that you’ll need to be well aware of—Interstate 80 running east-west, and US 580 running north-south—once you’re living here in Reno!
  • While driving is the popular mode of choice, public transit is abundant thanks to the sheer level of tourism in Reno and the Regional Transportation Commission of Washoe County!
  • RTC RIDE is the Commission’s transit bus system. The busiest route belongs to the #1 bus and has two services, RAPID and CONNECT, for convenience. Route #11 goes into Sparks.

Schooling in Reno

  • Public education is provided through the Washoe County School District to the cities of Reno and Sparks, as well as the communities of Verdi, Incline Village, and Gerlach.
  • Approximately 63,000 students are enrolled in 92 schools, including 64 elementary schools, 14 middle schools, 13 comprehensive high schools, & a special education school.
  • There are six institutions for higher education available to residents of Reno, including the University of Nevada, Reno, Truckee Meadows Community College, & Morrison University!

Restaurants and attractions in Reno

  • Jim Kelley’s Nugget Diner might not sound all that classy, but the food speaks for itself—try the Awful Awful! Or, for the best breakfast in Reno try the fantastic Island Buffet!
  • J J’s Pie Co serves up locally-acclaimed pizza pies daily—try the Hawaiian! As for Hiroba Sushi Restaurant, enjoy all-you-can-eat options and free sake—try the snow mountain!
  • Indulge in Downtown Reno’s urban renaissance two premier shopping areas: Riverwalk, which follows the Truckee River, and CalAve, which meanders along California Avenue!
  • Visit Circus Circus or Silver Legacy casinos, mountain bike through an open desert terrain, attend Burning Man in Black Rock City, go kayaking at Wingfield Park or skiing at Mt Rose!

You’ll love moving from San Jose to Reno, “The Biggest Little City in the World”! And U-Pack can help. With a network of service centers, including ones near Reno and San Jose, we can make your move easy and affordable.