Best Ontario to San Diego Movers + Moving Guide

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If you're moving from Ontario to San Diego and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 115 mile long distance California move go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 150 Ontario 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 Parker's Moving), how much the move costs (approximately $1,500 - $4,500 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Ontario 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 Ontario to San Diego Moving Companies

Company
Score Question
Affordability Index
1Parker's Moving9.749.56
2Little Guy Big Truck Moving9.709.81
31st Choice Movers9.639.7
4Ready-to-go Movers9.629.51
5Pure Moving Company9.519.48
Phone (800) 787-5428

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

Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 115 miles from Ontario, CA to San Diego, CA will cost on average $1,879 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Ontario to San Diego move is roughly $4,483. 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$1,268300 ft³$4.23
1 Bedroom$1,879450 ft³$4.18
2 Bedrooms$3,094750 ft³$4.13
3 Bedrooms$4,4831100 ft³$4.08
4 Bedrooms$6,4411600 ft³$4.03
5+ Bedrooms$7,1561800 ft³$3.98
*Please note: These California to California moving prices are rough approximations based upon nationwide data as well as local and statewide data from California & 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 CA to CA mover.
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from San Diego to Ontario guide.

Compare the 5 Best Ontario to San Diego Movers

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

Parker's Moving Logo

Parker's Moving

Exceptional9.74/10
based on 1,743+ data points

Clinton, TN, 37716

About Parker's Moving

Parker's Moving is a Toronto-based residential moving company with over five years of experience in the industry. Founded by Aaron Parker,...

Services

  • Residential Moving
  • Staging Support
  • Furniture Delivery

Interstate Moving License

Circle X Mark
Not Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/10/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3593345 / -

Not Authorized

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans1
Registered Drivers1
Total Annual Miles Moved40,308 (2023)
View Full Review
1
Little Guy Big Truck Moving Logo

Little Guy Big Truck Moving

Exceptional9.70/10
based on 1,698+ data points

National City, CA

About Little Guy Big Truck Moving

Little Guy Big Truck Moving is a BBB-accredited, family-owned and operated business offering local and long-distance moving services at an affordable...

Services

  • Affordable fast friendly movers
  • Local and long distance moving
  • Fully licensed and insured
View Full Review
2
1st Choice Movers Logo

1st Choice Movers

Exceptional9.63/10
based on 5,019+ data points

8250 Miramar Mall

San Diego, CA, 92121

About 1st Choice Movers

With hundreds of satisfied customers, 1st Choice Movers is true to its name as a preferred local choice for moving and...

Services

  • Local moving services
  • Long-distance moving services
  • Cross-country moving services

Interstate Moving License

Circle X Mark
Not Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/9/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2776935 / -

Not Authorized

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans3
Registered Drivers2
Total Annual Miles Moved60,000 (2023)
View Full Review
3
Ready-to-go Movers Logo

Ready-to-go Movers

Exceptional9.62/10
based on 2,057+ data points

400 Autumnwood St

Thousand Oaks, CA, 91360

About Ready-to-go Movers

Ready To Go Movers lives up to its business name with emergency moving crews that are ready to provide moving services...

Services

  • Local moving services
  • Long-distance moving services
  • Cross-country moving services

Interstate Moving License

Circle X Mark
Not Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 8/7/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2777901 / -

Not Authorized

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans2
Registered Drivers2
Total Annual Miles Moved40,000 (2023)
View Full Review
4
Pure Moving Company Logo

Pure Moving Company

Exceptional9.51/10
based on 15,942+ data points

1601 N Gower St # 205

Los Angeles, CA, 90028

About Pure Moving Company

Established in 2010 in Los Angeles, Pure Moving Company is a trusted name in the moving industry. With several locations across...

Services

  • Local Moving
  • Long distance Moving
  • Commercial Moving

Interstate Moving License

Circle X Mark
Not Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/9/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3980623 / -

Not Authorized

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans2
Registered Drivers2
Total Annual Miles Moved-
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.

Ontario vs. San Diego Neighborhood Comparison

Moving to a new city can be exciting yet daunting, especially when trying to find a neighborhood that feels like home. This guide is designed to ease your transition by comparing the local neighborhoods between Ontario, CA & San Diego, CA . By understanding the similarities between neighborhoods in both cities, you can better visualize your new community and find a place where you'll feel right at home.

OntarioSan DiegoHow They're Similar
Euclid AvenueHillcrestVibrant, with historic homes
Archibald RanchScripps RanchFamily-friendly, quiet
CreekSideSan CarlosScenic views, family-oriented
Eden GlenCarmel ValleyModern, upscale living
ArmstrongNorth ParkArtistic, with a strong community feel
South OntarioSouth ParkHistoric, diverse community
NarodNormal HeightsQuaint, with a bohemian vibe
Kimball ParkBalboa ParkRich in culture, vast green spaces
Misty RidgeDel Mar HeightsBreezy, close to the beach
New HavenLittle ItalyBustling, with excellent dining options

When moving from Ontario to San Diego, discovering comparable neighborhoods can help you seamlessly transition into your new environment. For instance, if you're drawn to the vibrant, historic nature of Euclid Avenue, you’ll find a similar spirit in Hillcrest, where the mix of historic homes and vibrant nightlife mirrors that charm. Fans of CreekSide's family-oriented and scenic beauty will appreciate San Carlos for its picturesque settings and strong community vibe. Meanwhile, those who have enjoyed the modern, upscale living in Eden Glen might find Carmel Valley inviting with its polished amenities and newer housing developments. For a taste of cultural richness akin to Kimball Park, Balboa Park offers not only vast green spaces but also a plethora of museums, gardens, and arts venues. In essence, each San Diego neighborhood offers a unique blend of characteristics reminiscent of Ontario’s favorites, ensuring that you can find a new home that mirrors the comfort of the old.

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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 Ontario to San Diego

Making a move can be daunting, and it's crucial to weigh the pros and cons. This guide aims to provide an honest reflection of what to expect when relocating from Ontario, CA to San Diego, CA. By comparing the drawbacks and benefits through charts, we aim to illuminate the Ontario, CA to San Diego, CA transition , highlighting how each city's characteristics might affect your decision.

CONs
PROs
Ontario, CA iconOntario, CA
  • Higher crime rates
  • Hotter summers
  • Less cultural venues
  • More traffic congestion
San Diego, CA iconSan Diego, CA
  • Safer neighborhoods
  • Milder climate
  • Rich cultural scene
  • Better public transit
San Diego, CA iconSan Diego, CA
  • Higher living costs
  • Far from LA
  • More crowded
  • Longer commutes
Ontario, CA iconOntario, CA
  • Affordable housing
  • Proximity to LA
  • Smaller community feel
  • Easier commute

Moving to San Diego presents the opportunity to enjoy a richer cultural scene, with access to venues like the San Diego Museum of Art, and engage in outdoor activities year-round at places like Balboa Park and the world-renowned San Diego Zoo. The city's neighborhoods boast safer streets and a variety of restaurants, from cozy cafes in Hillcrest to waterfront dining at Seaport Village. While the cost of living and housing can be higher, the investment in San Diego's vibrant lifestyle and milder climate might be worth the trade-off for those moving from Ontario, where the community feel and ease of access to Los Angeles are top advantages. However, transitioning to San Diego's richer cultural setting and picturesque landscapes can offer a refreshing start and new opportunities to explore.

Ontario vs. San Diego Food Guide

This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Ontario & San Diego, illuminating the culinary journeys both cities offer. Understanding the diversity and richness of local food is essential in appreciating what living in a new area will truly be like. Let's delve into the culinary landscapes of these vibrant Californian cities to better prepare you for your move.

Ontario
San Diego
Most iconic local food item
California Burrito
Fish Tacos
Most popular meat dish
Tri-tip steak
Carne Asada
Most popular street food item
Tacos
Fish Tacos
Most popular vegan food
Avocado Toast
Jackfruit Tacos
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
  • Vinny’s Italian Ice & Frozen Custard
  • Rosa's Café
  • Porter’s Pub
  • Juniper & Ivy
  • Hodad's
  • Phil's BBQ
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness
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Abundance of Food Trucks
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Foodie Scene
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Vegan Friendly
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When relocating from Ontario to San Diego, you're moving into a region celebrated for its innovative and vibrant food scene. San Diego is especially renowned for fish tacos, a delicious local specialty found in vibrant neighborhoods like La Jolla and Pacific Beach. Establishments such as Hodad's in Ocean Beach offer a glimpse into San Diego's iconic treats, serving up some of the best burgers amidst a beachfront backdrop. With its higher health conscientiousness, San Diego boasts a variety of vegan options like jackfruit tacos, showing a culinary culture that caters to a broad array of dietary preferences. The city's foodie scene is alive and well, supported by an assortment of food trucks and high-end restaurants, making it a paradise for any food lover.

Ontario vs. San Diego Restaurant Comparison

Moving to a new city can be a mix of excitement and nostalgia, especially when it comes to finding your new go-to dining spots that remind you of home. This restaurant comparison between Ontario and San Diego is designed to ease your transition by identifying similar eateries in your new city. Whether you’re looking for high-end dining, casual bites, or iconic spots, this guide has you covered.

OntarioSan DiegoWhat You'll Love
Vince's SpaghettiBigaTraditional Italian dishes with a local twist
Rossa's Cucina EnotecaBencotto Italian KitchenAuthentic Italian flavors and a vast wine selection
Fuoco Pizzeria NapoletanaBuona ForchettaNeapolitan pizzas and a homey atmosphere
Market BroilerPoint Loma SeafoodsFresh seafood in a casual setting by the water
Baby Bros Pizza & WingsRegents PizzeriaAmerican and Chicago-style pizza, along with craft beer
Lazy Dog Restaurant & BarStone Brewing World Bistro & GardensAmerican cuisine with an extensive beer list
Black Angus SteakhouseCowboy Star Restaurant and Butcher ShopHigh-quality steaks and rustic ambience
Porter's Prime SteakhouseFleming's Prime Steakhouse & Wine BarUpscale steak dining with a notable wine collection
New York GrillBorn & RaisedStylish steakhouse with a modern twist
Zen Buffet100s Seafood Grill BuffetDiverse seafood and grill options in an all-you-can-eat setting

For those craving the authentic Italian atmosphere and cuisines of Rossa's Cucina Enoteca in Ontario, Bencotto Italian Kitchen in San Diego presents an exciting exploration of Italian flavors coupled with a selective wine collection. Pizza enthusiasts will find solace in Buona Forchetta’s Neapolitan pizzas that closely mirror Fuoco Pizzeria Napoletana’s dedication to tradition and quality. Meanwhile, the fresh seafood offerings at Point Loma Seafoods offer a San Diego twist on Market Broiler's beloved dishes, emphasizing local catches and oceanfront dining experiences. Each San Diego spot has been carefully selected to offer former Ontario residents a taste of their old favorites with a sprinkle of local flair.

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Ready to start your move?

Ontario vs. San Diego Real Estate & Living Facts

When planning a move, it's crucial to compare the real estate landscapes of your current and future cities. Understanding the housing market in both Ontario and San Diego is essential to make informed decisions. This comparison aims to provide a thorough overview of various housing aspects, such as cost, architecture, and lifestyle.

Ontario
San Diego
Typical Architecture Style
Ranch, Contemporary
Spanish, Modern
Walkability
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Bikeability
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Urban Lifestyle
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Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing
Spacious yards, proximity to freeways
Ocean views, eco-friendly features

While the median home price and rent in San Diego are significantly higher than in Ontario, San Diego offers a more walkable and bikeable environment coupled with a vibrant urban lifestyle. The architecture in San Diego often incorporates Spanish influences and modern designs, catering to those who prefer a unique style with ocean views and eco-friendly features. Ontario, on the other hand, tends to have homes with more spacious yards and is valued for its proximity to major freeways, appealing to commuters and those looking for more traditional or contemporary home styles. Whether you value walkability and an urban lifestyle or spacious living and accessibility, both cities offer distinct advantages tailored to different preferences.

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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.

Ontario vs. San Diego Weather Considerations

When planning a move from one location to another, understanding the weather differences is crucial. This comparison aims to highlight how the climate in Ontario and San Diego will impact your everyday life. Whether you're worried about the heat, the cold, or the amount of sunshine you'll get to enjoy, these charts will guide your expectations and help you prepare accordingly.

Ontario
San Diego
Days of Sunshine per Year
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Avg. Annual Humidity
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Avg. UV Index
🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Natural Disasters
Earthquakes, Wildfires
Earthquakes, Wildfires
Air Quality
Moderate
Good
Summer icon

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

94°F / 64°F
77°F / 67°F
Winter icon

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

68°F / 42°F
66°F / 50°F


Rainfall icon

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

15.82
10.34
Snowfall icon

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

0
0


Moving from Ontario to San Diego will bring you milder summers and warmer winters. The average summer highs are significantly cooler in San Diego, making it an excellent place for those who prefer mild warm weather over intense heat. Additionally, despite being known for its sunshine, San Diego experiences slightly fewer days of it compared to Ontario, but it makes up with higher humidity levels which can affect how the temperature feels. Both cities share a risk for natural disasters such as earthquakes and wildfires, highlighting the importance of preparedness for new residents. This climate comparison should help you adjust your wardrobe and anticipate the changes in your daily routine.

Ready to start your move?

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

Moving from one city to another can significantly impact your finances. Understanding the differences in cost of living and average household income between Ontario and San Diego is crucial for a smooth transition. This comparison aims to provide a clear snapshot of what to expect financially.

Ontario
San Diego
Avg. Household Income
$73,872
$93,042
Cost of Living Index
136.4
132.3
State Income Tax
9.3
9.3
Avg. Property Tax
1.1
1.1
Avg. Sales Tax
8.0
7.75
Top 3 Industries
Logistics, Healthcare, Manufacturing
Defense/Military, Tourism, International Trade
Affluence
Moderate
High
Poverty
Moderate
Low
Homelessness
Significant
Considerable

While the average household incomes in San Diego are higher than in Ontario, it's essential to note that San Diego also has a significantly higher cost of living index. Both cities share the same state income tax rate. However, San Diego showcases a slight advantage in sales tax. The top industries vary greatly, reflecting the economic focuses of each city and potentially impacting job opportunities. Despite San Diego's affluent reputation, both cities face challenges with homelessness, highlighting a broader statewide issue.

Ontario vs. San Diego Political & Religious Comparison

Moving from Ontario, CA to San Diego, CA offers an insightful look into the diverse landscapes of California living. This comparison aims to provide a quick snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents between Ontario & San Diego , essential for understanding the local climate you’re moving into.

Ontario
San Diego
Political Make-up
Leans Democratic
Strongly Democratic
Local Politics
Moderate to conservative approaches in local governance
Progressive policies and local agenda
Religion
Diverse, with a mix of Christian denominations and other faiths
Highly diverse religious landscape, with notable Christian and non-Christian communities

When you move from Ontario to San Diego, you'll be transitioning from a community that leans Democratic to one that is known for its strong Democratic values and progressive policies. This shift is evident in the local political climate, where San Diego's leadership often champions progressive agendas, significantly impacting policy areas such as environmental conservation, social justice, and housing. This could represent a considerable shift in the local governance you're accustomed to in Ontario, which tends to uphold more moderate to conservative approaches. Additionally, San Diego's diverse religious landscape offers a broad array of communities and places of worship, reflecting the city's rich cultural mosaic. Engaging with these communities might provide you with new perspectives and an inclusive environment.

Ontario vs. San Diego Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

Moving from Ontario, CA to San Diego, CA means adapting to new daily routines, especially in terms of your commute and navigating around. This comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Ontario & San Diego is designed to give you a clearer picture of what to expect in each city, helping to smooth your transition.

Ontario
San Diego
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)
30
25
Traffic Congestion
6 out of 10
7 out of 10
Availability of Public Transit
5 out of 10
8 out of 10
Can you get by without car?
No
Yes

While Ontario offers a slightly less congested traffic experience with an average commute time of 30 minutes, San Diego’s average of 25 minutes comes with denser traffic. However, San Diego compensates with a stronger public transportation system, rated 8 out of 10, including services like the San Diego Metropolitan Transit System that Ontario lacks. This robust network makes living in San Diego without a car far more feasible, unlike in Ontario, where a car is almost a necessity for getting around efficiently. Whether you're planning your daily commute or exploring the city's attractions, understanding these differences can help you adjust your expectations and plans accordingly.

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