Best Sacramento to San Diego Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from Sacramento to San Diego and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 508 mile long distance California move go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 165 Sacramento 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 Little Guy Big Truck Moving), how much the move costs (approximately $1,500 - $5,500 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Sacramento 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.
Best Sacramento to San Diego Moving Companies
| Rank | Company | Score  | Affordability Index |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Little Guy Big Truck Moving | 9.70 | 9.81 |
| 2 | Hauling Moses Moving Inc. | 9.65 | 9.13 |
| 3 | 1st Choice Movers | 9.63 | 9.7 |
| 4 | Tetris Masters Moving | 9.52 | 9.46 |
| 5 | smoove | 9.47 | 9.55 |
(800) 787-5428How Much Does it Cost to Move from Sacramento to San Diego?
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 508 miles from Sacramento, CA to San Diego, CA will cost on average $2,213 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Sacramento to San Diego move is roughly $5,300. 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 Size | Moving Cost | Volume of Packed Items (ft³) | $/ft³ |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio | $1,490 | 300 ft³ | $4.97 |
| 1 Bedroom | $2,213 | 450 ft³ | $4.92 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $3,651 | 750 ft³ | $4.87 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $5,300 | 1100 ft³ | $4.82 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $7,629 | 1600 ft³ | $4.77 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $8,493 | 1800 ft³ | $4.72 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from San Diego to Sacramento guide.
Compare the 5 Best Sacramento to San Diego Movers
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
Little Guy Big Truck Moving
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
Hauling Moses Moving Inc.
This listing has been claimed by Hauling Moses Moving Inc.494 27th Ave # 37
San Francisco, CA, 94121
About Hauling Moses Moving Inc.
Based in San Francisco since 2016, Hauling Moses Moving specializes in local moves for both residential and commercial clients. This moving...
Services
- Local and Long-Distance moves within entire state of California
- Full Packing Service / Packing supplies
- Piano, pool table, appliance, and furniture moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3018716 / - Not Authorized Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 1 |
| Registered Drivers | 1 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | - |
1st Choice Movers
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
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2776935 / - Not Authorized Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 3 |
| Registered Drivers | 2 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 60,000 (2023) |
Tetris Masters Moving
2831 Clark Ave
Carmichael, CA, 95608
About Tetris Masters Moving
Tetris Masters Moving is a trusted moving company based in Sacramento, servicing areas such as El Dorado County, Placerville, Orangevale, and...
Services
- Residential Moving
- Full Service Packing/Unpacking
- Local/Long Distance
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3436036 / - Not Authorized Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 1 |
| Registered Drivers | 1 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 1 (2022) |
smoove
2333 Northrop Ave Unit # 213B
Sacramento, CA, 95825
About smoove
If you are finding the process of moving stressful, it is important to note that you're not alone. In fact, most...
Services
- Local moving
- Long-distance moving
- Cross-country moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3810402 / - Not Authorized Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 1 |
| Registered Drivers | 1 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 12,000 (2023) |
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.
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.
Sacramento vs. San Diego Neighborhood Comparison
Moving can be daunting, especially to a new city. To ease this transition, we've crafted a guide comparing popular neighborhoods in Sacramento, CA with San Diego, CA . This side-by-side look at equivalent neighborhoods helps you find a new home that feels familiar, using your current city as a baseline.
| Sacramento | San Diego | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Midtown | Hillcrest | Vibrant, LGBTQ+-friendly |
| East Sacramento | Kensington | Historic homes, family-friendly |
| Land Park | South Park | Walkable, Craftsman homes |
| Natomas | Mira Mesa | Suburban, diverse communities |
| Elk Grove | Scripps Ranch | Family-oriented, spacious parks |
| Tahoe Park | Normal Heights | Affordable, community-focused |
| Downtown | Gaslamp Quarter | Entertainment hub, historic |
| Oak Park | Golden Hill | Artsy, revitalized |
| Curtis Park | North Park | Hip, microbreweries and cafes |
| Pocket-Greenhaven | Point Loma | Ocean views, marinas |
Midtown Sacramento and Hillcrest share a vibrancy, rich with diverse dining options, like Zorba's Greek Eatery in Hillcrest, mirroring the eclectic tastes found in Midtown. Similarly, Curtis Park's historic charm and tight-knit community echo through North Park, where establishments like Lancer's offer a glimpse into the neighborhood's pulsating energy. For those drawn to the suburban, family-friendly atmosphere of Elk Grove, Scripps Ranch will feel like home, boasting spacious parks like Miramar Lake that are perfect for weekend outings. This comparison aims to make the transition as seamless as possible, helping you find a new neighborhood that resonates with the spirit of your Sacramento home.
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 Sacramento to San Diego
Moving from one city to another is a decision not to be taken lightly. This guide offers a comparison to help you weigh the good and bad attributes of relocating from Sacramento, CA to San Diego, CA . It's designed to give you an honest reflection of both cities, providing insights into how your lifestyle might change for the better or face new challenges.
Sacramento, CA- Higher crime rates
- Hot summers
- Less coastal access
- Smaller cultural scene
- Lower job growth
San Diego, CA- Lower crime rates
- Milder climate
- Beaches nearby
- Vibrant cultural scene
- Higher job growth
San Diego, CA- Costly housing
- More crowded
- Urban setting
- Fewer political events
- Higher cost of living
Sacramento, CA- Affordable housing
- Less crowded
- Close to nature
- State capital perks
- Lower cost of living
Moving from Sacramento to San Diego does not simply change your address but significantly alters your daily scenery and lifestyle. Sacramento's proximity to nature and lower population density offer a calm environment, with access to spots like the American River Parkway providing outdoor recreation. On the other hand, San Diego's vibrant cultural scene, highlighted by venues like the Mission Beach and San Diego Museum of Art, promises dynamic urban living. While Sacramento's affordable housing is enticing, San Diego's costlier housing market leads to higher quality amenities and services, correlating with its coastal benefits and stronger job market in sectors like biotech and military defense. Thus, your preference between the two could hinge on what lifestyle aspects - cost of living vs. quality of life amenities - matter most to you.
Sacramento vs. San Diego Food Guide
Food stands as a vibrant expression of local culture, encapsulating the essence of what it means to live in a particular area. As you plan your move, understanding the differences in the culinary scene is crucial. This guide compares the local cuisine between Sacramento & San Diego , preparing you for the delightful flavors that await in your new city.
- The Kitchen
- Selma's Chicago Pizzeria & Tap Room
- Hawks Public House
- George's at the Cove
- Las Olas
- Juniper & Ivy
In Sacramento, the farm-to-fork movement showcases the city's rich agricultural heritage, with restaurants like The Kitchen leading the charge. Meanwhile, San Diego's food scene thrives on its coastal influences, where establishments like George's at the Cove elevate seafood to an art form. In both cities, food trucks and vegan options abound, reflecting California's ongoing commitment to diverse and health-conscious cuisine. Whether sampling food truck tacos along Sacramento’s streets or relishing fish tacos in San Diego’s Ocean Beach neighborhood, you’ll find the local food scenes vibrant and inviting.
Sacramento vs. San Diego Restaurant Comparison
Finding comfort in a new city can often start with discovering your next favorite meal. This guide is designed to transition your taste from Sacramento to San Diego , helping you find comparable culinary experiences. Whether you're craving high-end dining or casual comfort food, this comparison will serve as your roadmap to delicious discoveries in your new coastal home.
| Sacramento | San Diego | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| The Kitchen Restaurant | Juniper & Ivy | upscale, innovative American cuisine |
| Mulvaney's B&L | Market Restaurant + Bar | farm-to-table dining with a creative twist |
| Frank Fat's | Mister A's | iconic city views with a classic dining experience |
| Ella Dining Room and Bar | Herb & Wood | elegant ambiance with a focus on seasonal ingredients |
| Localis | George's at the Cove | ocean views paired with California modern cuisine |
| Tres Hermanas | Puesto | Mexican art and award-winning tacos |
| Firehouse Crawfish | Ironside Fish & Oyster | seafood-centric spot in a converted warehouse |
| Mother | Kindred | unique vegan dishes in a gothic-baroque setting |
| Gunther's Quality Ice Cream | An's Dry Cleaning | creative gelato in a novelty setting |
| Selland's Market-Cafe | Liberty Public Market | artisan market with diverse food options |
Among these culinary parallels, the transition from The Kitchen Restaurant in Sacramento to San Diego's Juniper & Ivy promises an innovative dining experience, asserting that high-quality, creative American cuisine is just as vibrant in your new city. Similarly, those who have cherished the farm-to-table ethos and heartfelt dishes of Mulvaney's B&L will find a kindred spirit in Market Restaurant + Bar, where the emphasis on fresh, local ingredients and inventive plates shines. Equally, the transition from the family-friendly atmosphere and Mexican flavors at Tres Hermanas to the award-winning tacos and lively ambiance at Puesto ensures your taste buds will feel right at home in San Diego. These comparisons illustrate the rich culinary tapestry that both cities offer, guiding you to discover new favorites while reminiscing about the staples of your Sacramento days.
Ready to start your move?
Sacramento vs. San Diego Real Estate & Living Facts
Real estate is a crucial aspect of relocating. Understanding how Sacramento and San Diego's housing markets compare can significantly influence your moving decision. This comparison aims to highlight key differences in housing costs, architecture, and lifestyle between these vibrant cities.
While Sacramento and San Diego both offer unique living experiences, San Diego's higher cost of living, reflected in its significantly higher median home prices and rent, highlights its desirability and prime location. San Diego's architecture is greatly influenced by its coastal setting, focusing on Spanish styles and modern designs that often include outdoor living spaces to enjoy the ocean views and year-round sunny weather. Sacramento, with its Victorian and Craftsman homes, offers a more traditional urban living with a focus on community spaces and an emerging bike-friendly infrastructure. The differences in lifestyle, urban amenities, and housing costs between Sacramento and San Diego are pivotal for anyone considering a move to better align with their personal and financial circumstances.
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.
Sacramento vs. San Diego Weather Considerations
When considering a move from one city to another, it's crucial to understand the differences in weather patterns you'll experience. This comparison between Sacramento and San Diego helps illustrate what changes you can expect in your new environment.
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Moving from Sacramento to San Diego, you'll find the summers to be milder in San Diego, with its coastal breezes tempering the often intense inland heat of Sacramento. Despite the similar days of sunshine, San Diego's higher average annual humidity contributes to a cooler feeling air. Notably, San Diego's air quality is generally better, a significant plus for those with respiratory issues or outdoor lifestyles. Both cities share a risk of wildfires, but their differing climates influence the prevalence of seasonal allergies.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Sacramento to San Diego
If you're considering moving from Sacramento to San Diego, you'll want to understand how the cost of living and other financial elements compare. This knowledge is crucial in preparing for your relocation and managing your expectations and budget effectively.
When moving from Sacramento to San Diego, it's essential to note that San Diego generally has a higher cost of living index, primarily due to its housing and utility costs. Although average household income is also higher in San Diego, the disparity in the cost of living may offset the income benefits. The major industries of defense, tourism, and international trade drive a lot of the economic activity in San Diego, contrasting with Sacramento's economy heavily reliant on government, healthcare, and education sectors. Affluence in San Diego is described as high, attributing to its more prosperous economy and job market compared to Sacramento. However, both cities grapple with significant homelessness, underscoring a widespread issue in California's urban areas.
Sacramento vs. San Diego Political & Religious Comparison
This guide offers a quick comparison of the political and religious landscape between Sacramento & San Diego to provide you with an at-a-glance snapshot of the residents’ makeup in both cities. This will help you understand the communities you’re moving from and to.
Both Sacramento and San Diego show a strong inclination towards liberal politics, likely a reflection of California's overall political landscape. However, while similar in ideological tendencies, each city's local governance showcases a dedication to implementing policies that reflect their residents' progressive values, albeit with some distinctions based on local priorities and community needs. The religious makeup in both cities is broad and inclusive, offering a wide range of congregations from different faiths, which contributes to the cities' rich cultural diversity. This diversity is not only evident in their religious life but is reflected in various aspects of community and social engagement in both cities.
Sacramento vs. San Diego Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Moving from Sacramento to San Diego requires adjusting to a new way of life, including how you’ll commute. This guide focuses on a comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Sacramento & San Diego, to help you better understand what your daily commute and traffic experiences will be like.
In transitioning from Sacramento to San Diego, you'll find slight variations in commute experiences. Sacramento’s average commute time is marginally longer, but the city ranks better in terms of public transit availability, which includes the Sacramento Regional Transit District services. However, despite higher traffic congestion, San Diego offers a more feasible lifestyle for those aiming to live without a car, courtesy of its dense urban layout and comprehensive Metropolitan Transit System. This difference is crucial for setting your expectations on mobility and planning your daily commute efficiently.
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