Best San Diego to Los Angeles Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from San Diego to Los Angeles and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 121 mile long distance California move go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 200 San Diego to Los Angeles 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 Fastruck Moving Company), 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 San Diego compared to Los Angeles. 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 San Diego to Los Angeles Moving Companies
| Rank | Company | Score  | Affordability Index |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Fastruck Moving Company | 9.78 | 9.67 |
| 2 | Roadway Moving - LA Moving Company | 9.74 | 9.3 |
| 3 | Little Guy Big Truck Moving | 9.70 | 9.81 |
| 4 | 1st Choice Movers | 9.63 | 9.7 |
| 5 | 24/7 Moving and Storage | 9.55 | 9.52 |
(800) 787-5428How Much Does it Cost to Move from San Diego to Los Angeles?
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 121 miles from San Diego, CA to Los Angeles, CA will cost on average $1,884 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom San Diego to Los Angeles move is roughly $4,496. 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 | $1,271 | 300 ft³ | $4.24 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,884 | 450 ft³ | $4.19 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $3,103 | 750 ft³ | $4.14 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $4,496 | 1100 ft³ | $4.09 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $6,459 | 1600 ft³ | $4.04 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $7,176 | 1800 ft³ | $3.99 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Los Angeles to San Diego guide.
Compare the 5 Best San Diego to Los Angeles Movers
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
Fastruck Moving Company
11818 Riverside Dr
Valley Village, CA, 91607
About Fastruck Moving Company
Fastruck Moving Company was established in 2009 by three brothers – Al, Tim, and Ross, all of whom are enthusiastic and...
Services
- Local residential moves
- Office and commercial moves
- Piano moving service
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3056069 / - Not Authorized Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 4 |
| Registered Drivers | 4 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 47,516 (2022) |
Roadway Moving - LA Moving Company
18317 Napa St
Northridge, CA, 91325
About Roadway Moving - LA Moving Company
Roadway Moving, in operation since 2008, is a Los Angeles-based moving company that offers services across the United States. They specialize...
Services
- Local Moves in NYC
- Long-Distance Moving
- Commercial Moving
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
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) |
24/7 Moving and Storage
2622 Piantino Cir
San Diego, CA, 92108
About 24/7 Moving and Storage
This locally owned and operated moving company has been helping people in the San Diego area move since 2013. 24/7 Moving...
Services
- Local moving services
- Long distance moving services
- Full service packing/moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2707732 / - Not Authorized Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 6 |
| Registered Drivers | 6 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 50,000 (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.
San Diego vs. Los Angeles Neighborhood Comparison
Moving can be both exciting and daunting, especially when transitioning to a city as lively and diverse as Los Angeles. This guide uses your knowledge of San Diego, CA , to help you understand its counterpart, Los Angeles, CA . By comparing notable neighborhoods in both cities, you'll navigate new streets with the familiarity of your old stomping grounds.
| San Diego | Los Angeles | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| La Jolla | Santa Monica | Coastal vibes, luxury shopping |
| Gaslamp Quarter | Downtown LA | Nightlife, historic district |
| Hillcrest | West Hollywood | LGBTQ+ friendly, lively bar scene |
| North Park | Silver Lake | Artsy, eclectic, hip coffee shops |
| Little Italy | Culver City | Trendy, great dining |
| Pacific Beach | Venice Beach | Young crowd, surf culture |
| Coronado | Hermosa Beach | Beach community, laid-back lifestyle |
| Encinitas | Malibu | Surf spots, relaxed atmosphere |
| Mission Valley | Westwood | Shopping hubs, convenient amenities |
| Ocean Beach | Topanga | Bohemian spirit, artistic community |
If you're drawn to the upscale shopping experiences of La Jolla combined with its serene coastal environment, you’ll find Santa Monica's blend of sun, sea, and luxury just as appealing. For a night on the town, the buzz of Gaslamp Quarter has its match in the historic yet modern Downtown LA, home to diverse restaurants, theaters, and cultural landmarks like The Broad museum. Hillcrest and West Hollywood both brim with vibrant nightlife and pride events, offering an inclusive and festive atmosphere. Meanwhile, North Park's creative vibe mirrors Silver Lake's artistic streets, where you can explore unique boutiques and coffee shops. Whether you crave the beachy energy of Pacific Beach or the bohemian allure of Ocean Beach, Venice and Topanga have similar charms, filled with surf culture and artistic expression.
Things to Do in Los Angeles
Visit Universal Studios Hollywood- Explore LACMA's art collections
- Stargaze at Griffith Observatory
- See contemporary art at The Broad
- Walk Santa Monica Pier
- Experience Disneyland
- Hike in Eaton Canyon
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from San Diego to Los Angeles
Moving between cities can bring both excitement and apprehension. This guide aims to provide an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of relocating from San Diego, CA to Los Angeles, CA. Through comparative charts, understand what changes you might embrace and what challenges you could face in your new home.
San Diego, CA- Higher living costs
- Less beach access
- Quieter nightlife
Los Angeles, CA- More job opportunities
- Greater cultural diversity
- Vibrant music scene
Los Angeles, CA- Heavier traffic
- Higher pollution
- More expensive housing
San Diego, CA- Milder climate
- Relaxed lifestyle
- Better surf spots
Moving from the laid-back, surf-friendly beaches of San Diego like La Jolla Shores to the bustling, diverse cultural landscape of Los Angeles entails embracing a dynamic lifestyle change. Los Angeles, with neighborhoods like Silver Lake and Little Ethiopia, offers a rich tapestry of dining experiences from trendy cafes to ethnic restaurants. The music scene in areas such as The Echo in Echo Park provides a stark contrast to the quieter nightlife back in San Diego, introducing you to potential new favorite acts and vibrant social gatherings. While the adjustment may involve dealing with heavier traffic and exploring alternative means to enjoy nature, the change promises an enriching experience full of new opportunities.
San Diego vs. Los Angeles Food Guide
When planning your move, it's not just the landscapes and lifestyles of comparing the local cuisine between San Diego & Los Angeles that might change, but also the flavors and dining experiences. This guide aims to give you a brief but insightful comparison of the food scene in both cities, enriching your knowledge and possibly your palate as you transition from one city to another.
- George's at the Cove
- Hodad's
- Phil's BBQ
- Pizzeria Mozza
- Bestia
- Spago
In both San Diego and Los Angeles, the local cuisine is a reflection of the diverse culture and vibrant communities within each city. In San Diego, the beachfronts of La Jolla and Ocean Beach offer perfect settings to enjoy the city's famed Fish Tacos, while iconic restaurants like George's at the Cove showcase the coastal cuisine. Moving to Los Angeles, the city's melting pot of cultures brings a variety of flavors to the table, from the sushi bars in Little Tokyo to the bustling food trucks scattered around Downtown LA offering everything from Korean BBQ to vegan delights. Both cities boast a high health consciousness, with Los Angeles slightly edging out in terms of the abundance and variety of food trucks and vegan options. Whether you're grabbing a California Burrito in San Diego or exploring the vegan scene in Los Angeles, you're in for a culinary adventure.
San Diego vs. Los Angeles Restaurant Comparison
Food plays a pivotal role in making a new city feel like home. To ease your move from San Diego to Los Angeles, we've compared top dining spots in both cities. This will help you discover your next favorite eatery using San Diego as a starting point to explore similar culinary experiences in Los Angeles.
| San Diego | Los Angeles | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| George's at the Cove | Perch | Elevated French cuisine with stunning views |
| Ironside Fish & Oyster | Connie and Ted's | Fresh, high-quality seafood in a casual setting |
| Born & Raised | Bestia | Innovative dishes in an upscale, industrial-chic space |
| Phil's BBQ | Bludso's Bar & Que | Authentic, slow-cooked BBQ with a soulful touch |
| Las Cuatro Milpas | Guelaguetza | Traditional Oaxacan cuisine representing the rich flavors of Mexico |
| Juniper & Ivy | Republique | Modern American cuisine with innovative presentations |
| The Crack Shack | Howlin' Ray's | Known for Nashville hot chicken in a lively atmosphere |
| Puesto | Guisados | Authentic, homestyle Mexican tacos with a variety of fillings |
| Hodad's | Umami Burger | Gourmet burgers with unique flavors and ingredients |
| Extraordinary Desserts | Sweet Lady Jane | High-end bakery known for artistic cakes and pastries |
For those who relish the seaside charm and exquisite dining experience of George's at the Cove in San Diego, Perch in Los Angeles offers a similar blend of breathtaking views and French cuisine, transporting diners to a rooftop delight in the heart of the city. Meanwhile, fans of unique, modern American creations at Juniper & Ivy will find Republique's innovative menu and stunning decor a comforting reminder of San Diego's culinary sophistication. For barbecue enthusiasts accustomed to the smoky, succulent flavors of Phil's BBQ, Bludso's Bar & Que in LA provides an authentic, soulful barbecue experience that mirrors the quality and atmosphere found in San Diego. These transitions between cities highlight a shared dedication to culinary excellence, ensuring you don't have to sacrifice flavor for location.
Ready to start your move?
San Diego vs. Los Angeles Real Estate & Living Facts
Real estate is a crucial factor to consider when relocating. Understanding how San Diego and Los Angeles compare in terms of housing costs, architecture, and lifestyle is essential for making an informed decision. This comparison aims to highlight the significant aspects of real estate in both cities.
When it comes to housing, both San Diego and Los Angeles offer unique advantages. San Diego's typical Spanish Colonial architecture reflects the city's historical roots and adds a unique charm to residential areas, which might appeal if you're looking for scenic views and outdoor living spaces. On the other hand, Los Angeles, known for its Modernist buildings, caters to those who appreciate a more contemporary aesthetic and close proximity to the entertainment industry. Although the cost of living in Los Angeles is slightly higher—with median home prices and rent surpassing those in San Diego—the city scores better in terms of walkability, bikeability, and urban lifestyle, making it an attractive choice for individuals who prefer a fast-paced city life.
Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Los Angeles, CA
1. Silver Lake: You and your pet will love Silver Lake's many dog-friendly cafes and the vast green spaces of the Silver Lake Reservoir.
2. West Hollywood: Your furry friend can roam freely in this neighborhood's dog parks and join you in pet-welcoming shops and restaurants.
3. Santa Monica: Enjoy the ocean breeze with your pet as you explore pedestrian-friendly streets and beach paths where dogs are welcome.
San Diego vs. Los Angeles Weather Considerations
Moving from one location to another involves adapting to new surroundings, including weather patterns. It's vital you understand how weather in San Diego and Los Angeles compares. This will help you prepare for the climate differences and what you're used to.
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
While both San Diego and Los Angeles enjoy abundant sunshine and mild climates, there are subtle differences you'll notice after your move. For instance, Los Angeles typically has more days of sunshine per year and a slightly higher summer temperature compared to San Diego. Humidity in San Diego is on average higher, making the air feel a bit more moist compared to Los Angeles. Understanding these variances, along with the potential for more natural disasters in Los Angeles due to its geographic and climatic conditions, is crucial for adapting to your new home effectively.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from San Diego to Los Angeles
Moving from one city to another brings many changes, especially when it comes to your finances. It's crucial to understand how San Diego compares with Los Angeles in terms of money and finance, to prepare for what's ahead. This guide will help you navigate the financial landscape of your new home.
When moving from San Diego to Los Angeles, you'll need to brace yourself for a higher cost of living, despite a generally higher level of poverty and homelessness. The average household income in Los Angeles is lower, but the city is noted for its affluence, driven by industries such as entertainment, aerospace, and fashion. This economic dichotomy highlights the critical need to manage your finances carefully. Understanding and planning for these financial aspects can make your transition smoother and help to reduce surprises in your new city.
San Diego vs. Los Angeles Political & Religious Comparison
Welcome! This comparison provides a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents between San Diego & Los Angeles . It's designed to help you understand how the community might differ in the city you're moving to compared to where you're moving from.
When moving from San Diego to Los Angeles, you'll find that Los Angeles tends to lean more heavily Democratic, reflecting the city's strong liberal stance on various issues. This shift might be more pronounced than the generally moderate liberal atmosphere you're used to in San Diego, where local politics can be more balanced between the parties. On the religious front, both cities boast a diverse tapestry of faiths, but Los Angeles has a larger community of residents who identify as non-religious, reflecting perhaps a broader spectrum of beliefs and practices. This insight should help you prepare for the different community vibes you'll encounter in your new home.
San Diego vs. Los Angeles Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
When planning your move from San Diego to Los Angeles, it's essential to comprehend the differences in daily commute and traffic. This comparison between San Diego & Los Angeles will provide you with insights into what to expect in terms of driving and public transportation options in both cities.
In both San Diego and Los Angeles, you'll notice distinct differences in the daily commute experience. While San Diego generally offers a shorter average commute time compared to Los Angeles, the latter provides slightly better public transit options, making navigating the city somewhat more manageable without a car. However, the higher traffic congestion in Los Angeles means you'll likely spend more time in traffic, underscoring the importance of proximity to work or access to efficient transit routes. Additionally, while it's possible to get by without a car in San Diego, Los Angeles poses more of a challenge, necessitating a compromise between convenience, cost, and lifestyle preferences.
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