Best Phoenix to San Diego Movers + Moving Guide

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If you're moving from Phoenix to San Diego and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 367 mile move from Arizona to California go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 37 Phoenix to San Diego moving companies and more than 20,000 movers nationwide to provide up-to-date and data-driven information about: which moving company to hire (our top recommendation is Sterling Interstate LLC), how much the move costs (approximately $1,500 - $5,000 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Phoenix compared to San Diego. With a move this big, you want big data on your side and Great Guys Moving is your trusted ally to help you sift through the noise to make informed moving decisions.

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Best Phoenix to San Diego Moving Companies

Company
Score Question
Affordability IndexLicense
1Sterling Interstate LLC9.769.64Authorized For HHG
2The Rock Movers9.509.53Authorized For HHG
3Coast 2 Coast Moving, Inc.9.489.62Authorized For HHG
4New Beginnings Moving Solutions9.329.4Authorized For Property
5Creative Moving and Packing, LLC9.309.18Authorized For HHG
Phone (800) 787-5428

How Much Does it Cost to Move from Phoenix to San Diego?

Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 367 miles from Phoenix, AZ to San Diego, CA will cost on average $2,093 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Phoenix to San Diego move is roughly $5,007. See the chart below for a detailed breakdown by type of move and home size. Pricing will vary based upon the exact locations of pickup and dropoff as well as several other factors. The most important pricing component that is often overlooked is how far away the move date is. The earlier you can reserve movers, the better your pricing and options will be.

Home SizeMoving CostVolume of Packed Items (ft³)$/ft³
Studio$1,411300 ft³$4.70
1 Bedroom$2,093450 ft³$4.65
2 Bedrooms$3,451750 ft³$4.60
3 Bedrooms$5,0071100 ft³$4.55
4 Bedrooms$7,2031600 ft³$4.50
5+ Bedrooms$8,0131800 ft³$4.45
*Please note: These Arizona to California moving prices are rough approximations based upon nationwide data as well as local and statewide data from Arizona & California. The volume listed here represents the estimated cubic footage of your household items when packed and loaded into a moving truck. To determine the exact costs associated with your move, get a quote from a licensed AZ to CA mover.
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from San Diego to Phoenix guide.

Compare the 5 Best Phoenix to San Diego Movers

These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)

Sterling Interstate LLC Logo

Sterling Interstate LLC

Exceptional
claimed company icon
9.76/10
based on 2,064+ data points

Phoenix, AZ, 85022

About Sterling Interstate LLC

Established in 2017, Sterling Interstate opened with the intention to change the stigma around the moving industry by providing reliable, customizable...

Services

  • Local moving services
  • Long-distance moving services
  • Packing services

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/9/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3006713 / 26956

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans6
Registered Drivers7
Total Annual Miles Moved115,000 (2022)
View Full Review
1
The Rock Movers Logo

The Rock Movers

Exceptional9.50/10
based on 2,100+ data points

7087 Camino Revueltos UNIT 306

San Diego, CA, 92111

About The Rock Movers

The Rock Movers is a San Diego County-based moving company offering professional and affordable moving services for local and long-distance relocations....

Services

  • Local Residential
  • Furniture Moving
  • Full Packing Service

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/10/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3653432 / 1541470

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans4
Registered Drivers7
Total Annual Miles Moved40,000 (2023)
View Full Review
2
Coast 2 Coast Moving, Inc. Logo

Coast 2 Coast Moving, Inc.

Exceptional9.48/10
based on 421+ data points

2020 Camino De La Reina

San Diego, CA, 92108

About Coast 2 Coast Moving, Inc.

Coast 2 Coast Moving, Inc. is a professional moving company based in San Diego, California. Founded by Donal and Jessica O'Neill,...

Services

  • Local Moves
  • Long-Distance Moves
  • Packing Services

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/10/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3177184 / 1157114

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans3
Registered Drivers7
Total Annual Miles Moved200,000 (2024)
View Full Review
3
New Beginnings Moving Solutions Logo

New Beginnings Moving Solutions

Exceptional9.32/10
based on 887+ data points

6757 W Charter Oak Rd

Peoria, AZ, 85381

About New Beginnings Moving Solutions

New Beginnings Moving Solutions is a full-service moving company specializing in long-distance moves. It is locally-owned and operated and has been...

Services

  • Long Distance Moves
  • Local Moves
  • Business Relocation

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 9/27/2022)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3656946 / 1262843

Authorized For Property

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans1
Registered Drivers8
Total Annual Miles Moved500 (2021)
View Full Review
4
Creative Moving and Packing, LLC Logo

Creative Moving and Packing, LLC

Exceptional
claimed company icon
9.30/10
based on 3,672+ data points

4012 W Turney Ave

Phoenix, AZ, 85019

About Creative Moving and Packing, LLC

Since 2008, Creative Moving and Packing has served the Phoenix, AZ, area with high-quality local and long-distance relocation services. This company's...

Services

  • Local Moving Services
  • Long-Distance Moving Services
  • Commercial Moving Services

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/9/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

1877603 / 1173916

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans10
Registered Drivers11
Total Annual Miles Moved150,000 (2023)
View Full Review
5
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Dependable Rankings You Can Count On!

Our rankings are data-driven — movers cannot purchase a spot on our list. Here's why you can have confidence in our recommendations:

  • No Paid Placements: Every company earns its spot through merit, not payment.
  • Extensive Analysis: Evaluated over 24,000 movers across the country for our rankings.

Phoenix vs. San Diego Neighborhood Comparison

If you're moving from Phoenix, AZ to San Diego, CA, this guide will help you get acquainted with your new city by comparing neighborhoods from both locations, providing a familiar baseline to understand your new environment.

PhoenixSan DiegoHow They're Similar
ArcadiaLa JollaUpscale, scenic beauty
Downtown PhoenixGaslamp QuarterNightlife, cultural hub
EncantoNorth ParkArtistic, vibrant community
Paradise ValleyDel MarWealthy, luxurious living
Roosevelt RowLittle ItalyArtsy, trendy vibe
North MountainClairemontFamily-friendly, suburban feel
Biltmore AreaCarmel ValleyAffluent, business-oriented
TempeOcean BeachCollege-town, laid-back
ScottsdaleCoronadoModern, shopping and dining
Ahwatukee FoothillsRancho BernardoSerene, outdoor activities

In moving from Phoenix to San Diego, you'll find that Arcadia's upscale setting and scenic beauty have much in common with La Jolla's dramatic ocean views and high-end shopping. If you're keen on the bustling energy of Downtown Phoenix with its nightlife and cultural events, the Gaslamp Quarter in San Diego offers a similar downtown vibe with popular venues like the House of Blues and numerous eateries. For lovers of artistic and vibrant communities, Roosevelt Row's trendy atmosphere can be mirrored in Little Italy, known for its annual arts festivals and eclectic dining options along India Street. Each neighborhood in Phoenix has a counterpart in San Diego, ensuring you'll find an area that feels like home while embracing your new city’s unique charms.

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Things to Do in San Diego

  • Visit the San Diego Zoo
  • Tour the USS Midway Museum
  • Explore Balboa Park
  • Relax at Coronado Beach
  • Dine in Little Italy
  • Experience SeaWorld San Diego
  • Play golf at Torrey Pines

Ready to start your move?

Pros and Cons of Moving from Phoenix to San Diego

Moving from one city to another can be a significant life event that requires careful consideration of both the challenges and benefits associated with the move. This guide aims to provide an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of relocating from Phoenix, AZ to San Diego, CA , to help you make a well-informed decision. By comparing the cons of leaving Phoenix against the pros of moving to San Diego, and vice versa, we hope to offer a balanced view of this transition.

CONs
PROs
Phoenix, AZ iconPhoenix, AZ
  • Extreme heat
  • Less marine access
  • Lower walkability
  • Scarcity of green spaces
San Diego, CA iconSan Diego, CA
  • Milder climate
  • Beaches nearby
  • Highly walkable
  • More greenery
San Diego, CA iconSan Diego, CA
  • Higher expenses
  • More crowded
  • Busier neighborhoods
  • Heavier traffic
Phoenix, AZ iconPhoenix, AZ
  • Lower cost of living
  • Wide open spaces
  • Quiet suburbs
  • Better traffic conditions

Moving to San Diego from Phoenix offers benefits such as enjoying a milder climate, which means escaping the scorching summer heat that Phoenix is known for. San Diego boasts beautiful beaches like La Jolla Shores and Coronado Beach, ideal for both relaxation and water sports. The city is also renowned for its walkability and vibrant neighborhoods like Little Italy and Gaslamp Quarter, offering a diverse range of restaurants, cafes, and shops. On the flip side, the cost of living in San Diego may be higher, and you might find the city more crowded than Phoenix. However, the increased expenses are often seen as a fair trade for access to a plethora of green spaces, including Balboa Park, one of the largest urban parks in the United States, offering numerous outdoor activities, museums, and gardens.

Phoenix vs. San Diego Food Guide

This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Phoenix & San Diego, highlighting the importance food plays in local culture and daily life. Understanding the culinary scene of your potential new home can enrich your moving experience and help you dive into what makes each city unique.

Phoenix
San Diego
Most iconic local food item
Navajo Taco
California Burrito
Most popular meat dish
Carne Asada
Fish Tacos
Most popular street food item
Elote
Street Tacos
Most popular vegan food
Vegan Tacos
Avocado Toast
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
  • Pizzeria Bianco
  • Durant's
  • Chelsea's Kitchen
  • Hodad's
  • George's at the Cove
  • Phil's BBQ
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness
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Abundance of Food Trucks
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Foodie Scene
🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly
🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱
🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

In Phoenix, the culinary landscape is as vibrant and diverse as its population. Here, you can indulge in the savory Navajo Taco, a dish that perfectly illustrates the blend of Native American and Mexican cuisines. The streets of downtown Phoenix are bustling with food trucks that offer everything from Elote to Vegan Tacos, reflecting the city's health-conscious ethos. For those wanting to explore the local dining scene, Pizzeria Bianco stands out for its wood-fired pizzas, a testament to Phoenix’s artisan culinary craft. On the other hand, San Diego offers a seaside culinary adventure, with Fish Tacos embodying the city's love affair with fresh, local seafood. Neighborhoods like Ocean Beach and the Gaslamp Quarter are teeming with food options, from the iconic California Burrito to avocados in almost everything. Hodad's in Ocean Beach serves up some of the best burgers whilst Phil's BBQ is a must-visit for barbecue enthusiasts.

Phoenix vs. San Diego Restaurant Comparison

Food plays a crucial role in making a new city feel like home. This restaurant comparison will help you navigate the culinary landscapes of Phoenix and San Diego , ensuring you discover your next favorite eateries by drawing parallels with familiar spots from your current hometown.

PhoenixSan DiegoWhat You'll Love
Barrio CaféPuestoAuthentic Mexican flavors in a vibrant setting
Different Pointe of ViewGeorge’s at the CoveBreathtaking views with upscale dining
BiancoBuona ForchettaNeapolitan pizzas and Italian classics
La SantisimaLas Cuatro MilpasHomestyle Mexican food with a cult following
Matt’s Big BreakfastThe Cottage La JollaCozy breakfast spot with a farm-to-table approach
Durant'sBorn & RaisedHigh-end steakhouse with a vintage feel
Little Miss BBQGrand Ole BBQAuthentic Texas-style barbecue
Rusconi’s American KitchenTrust RestaurantAmerican cuisine with innovative twists
CiboIsola Pizza BarCozy Italian eatery with a focus on pizzas and wines
Nobuo at Teeter HouseSushi OtaRenowned spot for sushi and Japanese delicacies

Exploring San Diego's culinary scene brings you closer to unique dining experiences that reflect the city's diverse culture, much like Phoenix. For instance, if you're mesmerized by the authentic Mexican flavors and vibrant atmosphere of Barrio Café, you'll find a similar zest at Puesto. Both establishments serve dishes that are a testament to their dedication to Mexican cuisine. For an elegant dining experience akin to Different Pointe of View, George’s at the Cove offers not just stunning ocean views but also a menu that creatively showcases the best of Californian ingredients. Lastly, BBQ enthusiasts who relish the smoky, tender offerings at Little Miss BBQ will appreciate Grand Ole BBQ's dedication to Texas-style barbecue, proving that no matter where you are, great barbecue is a universal language of comfort and deliciousness.

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Ready to start your move?

Phoenix vs. San Diego Real Estate & Living Facts

When making the move from one city to another, understanding the real estate landscape is crucial. This comparison outlines key housing aspects to consider when relocating from Phoenix, AZ to San Diego, CA , helping you to make informed decisions about your new home.

Phoenix
San Diego
Typical Architecture Style
Ranch, Contemporary
Spanish Revival, Modern
Walkability
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👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability
🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle
🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing
Pool, Outdoor Living
Ocean View, Sustainability Features

In exploring the differences between Phoenix and San Diego's real estate markets, several key facets emerge. The substantial difference in median home prices highlights San Diego's higher cost of living but is balanced by its vibrant urban lifestyle and proximity to the ocean, which reflects in its higher walkability score. The popularity of sustainability features in San Diego listings indicates a city-wide emphasis on eco-conscious living, contrasting with Phoenix's focus on pools and outdoor living spaces—a nod to its hotter climate. Considering these aspects can guide you towards a residence that not only meets your budget but also your lifestyle preferences in your new city.

Pet-friendly neighborhoods background image

Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in San Diego, CA

1. Ocean Beach : You'll love the dog-friendly atmosphere with a dedicated dog beach where your furry friend can splash and play off-leash.

2. North Park : This hip neighborhood offers many pet-welcoming cafes and parks, making it easy for you to enjoy outings with your pets.

3. Hillcrest : Known for its inclusive culture, you'll find numerous pet-friendly restaurants and bars, along with a welcoming community for your pets.

Phoenix vs. San Diego Weather Considerations

When planning a move from one city to another, understanding how the weather compares is crucial for a smooth transition. This comparison aims to outline the weather differences between Phoenix and San Diego , helping you prepare for what's ahead.

Phoenix
San Diego
Days of Sunshine per Year
☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. Annual Humidity
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💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦
Avg. UV Index
🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Natural Disasters
Heatwaves, Dust Storms
Earthquakes, Wildfires
Air Quality
Moderate
Good
Summer icon

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

106°F / 83°F
77°F / 64°F
Winter icon

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

67°F / 46°F
66°F / 50°F


Rainfall icon

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

8
12
Snowfall icon

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

0
0


Moving from Phoenix to San Diego, you'll notice a significant difference in climates. Phoenix experiences extremely hot summers with temperatures often soaring above 100°F, while San Diego enjoys a milder climate year-round, thanks to its coastal location, which also brings higher humidity levels than Phoenix's arid surroundings. Additionally, while both cities enjoy a generous amount of sunny days, San Diego provides cleaner air quality, beneficial for those sensitive to pollution. Understanding these differences will help you adjust your lifestyle and expectations accordingly in your new home.

Ready to start your move?

Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Phoenix to San Diego

Moving from one city to another is a significant decision, especially when it comes to finances. If you're considering relocating from Phoenix, AZ to San Diego, CA, it's crucial to understand how the cost of living, taxes, and income will compare. This will help you manage your expectations and plan your finances accordingly.

Phoenix
San Diego
Avg. Household Income
$68,435
$93,042
Cost of Living Index
100.7
132.3
State Income Tax
2.59 to 4.50
1.00 to 13.30
Avg. Property Tax
0.62
0.76
Avg. Sales Tax
8.6
7.75
Top 3 Industries
Healthcare, Retail, Manufacturing
Defense/Military, Tourism, International Trade
Affluence
Moderate
High
Poverty
Moderate
Low
Homelessness
Significant
High

When moving from Phoenix to San Diego, prepare for a significant shift in your financial landscape. San Diego's higher cost of living, reflected in its 160.1 index, demands a larger budget for daily and housing expenses. However, it's balanced by an impressive average household income of $79,673, compared to Phoenix's $62,055. The range in state income tax in California also widens, but offers a progressive scheme that could benefit those with lower incomes. Keep in mind, the thriving industries in San Diego such as defense and tourism might offer new career opportunities that can compensate for the higher living expenses. Adjusting to these differences requires careful financial planning and awareness of the economic environment in your new home.

Phoenix vs. San Diego Political & Religious Comparison

Moving from Phoenix, AZ to San Diego, CA? Here's a quick, at-a-glance snapshot to help you understand how life might change in terms of the political and religious makeup of the residents between Phoenix & San Diego. This comparison offers insights into your potential new community.

Phoenix
San Diego
Political Make-up
Moderately liberal
Liberal
Local Politics
Mixed, with a slight Democratic lean in local elections
Democratic majority in local government
Religion
Diverse, Christian majority with significant Catholic community
Diverse, Catholic and non-denominational Christian communities prevalent

When you move from Phoenix to San Diego, you'll find that both cities boast a diverse tapestry of religious and political views, but with some nuances. Phoenix has a slightly more moderate approach to politics, with a mix that leans Democratic in local elections. San Diego, however, is known for its liberal stance and a Democratic majority in local government, reflecting a coastal city's typical political climate. In terms of religion, both cities have a diverse range of faith communities, but you might notice a more visible presence of Catholic and non-denominational Christian groups in San Diego. Understanding these dynamics can help you better integrate into your new community.

Phoenix vs. San Diego Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

When relocating, understanding the differences in traffic and transportation options between Phoenix & San Diego is crucial for anticipating your daily commute. This comparison will offer insights into what you can expect.

Phoenix
San Diego
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)
25
24
Traffic Congestion
6 out of 10
7 out of 10
Availability of Public Transit
4 out of 10
6 out of 10
Can you get by without car?
Challenging
More feasible

In Phoenix, while the average commute time may be slightly longer than in San Diego, it's the availability of public transit that marks a significant difference between the two cities. In Phoenix, reliance on a car is almost inevitable due to its sprawling nature and less developed public transportation system. San Diego, on the other hand, offers slightly better public transit options making it more feasible, though not entirely hassle-free, to get by without a personal vehicle. Factors like the higher traffic congestion in San Diego make it imperative to plan your travel wisely.

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