Best San Diego to Oceanside Movers + Moving Guide

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If you're moving from San Diego to Oceanside and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 38 mile long distance California move go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 117 San Diego to Oceanside 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 $1,000 - $4,500 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in San Diego compared to Oceanside. 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 San Diego to Oceanside Moving Companies

Company
Score Question
Affordability Index
1Little Guy Big Truck Moving9.709.81
21st Choice Movers9.639.7
324/7 Moving and Storage9.559.52
4Sunshine Moving Services LLC9.158.94
5Stella Moving & Delivery9.079.18
Phone (800) 787-5428

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

Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 38 miles from San Diego, CA to Oceanside, CA will cost on average $1,814 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom San Diego to Oceanside move is roughly $4,323. 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$1,224300 ft³$4.08
1 Bedroom$1,814450 ft³$4.03
2 Bedrooms$2,985750 ft³$3.98
3 Bedrooms$4,3231100 ft³$3.93
4 Bedrooms$6,2081600 ft³$3.88
5+ Bedrooms$6,8941800 ft³$3.83
*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 Oceanside to San Diego guide.

Compare the 5 Best San Diego to Oceanside Movers

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

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
1
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
2
24/7 Moving and Storage Logo

24/7 Moving and Storage

Exceptional9.55/10
based on 5,491+ data points

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

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2707732 / -

Not Authorized

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans6
Registered Drivers6
Total Annual Miles Moved50,000 (2023)
View Full Review
3
S

Sunshine Moving Services LLC

Exceptional9.15/10
based on 354+ data points

San Diego, CA

About Sunshine Moving Services LLC

Sunshine Moving Services LLC is a professional moving company based in San Diego, with its office in Carlsbad, CA. They offer...

Services

  • Residential Moving
  • Commercial Moving
  • In-State Moving

Interstate Moving License

Circle X Mark
Not Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/11/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3852182 / -

Not Authorized

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans4
Registered Drivers4
Total Annual Miles Moved100,000 (2023)
View Full Review
4
Stella Moving & Delivery Logo

Stella Moving & Delivery

Exceptional9.07/10
based on 3,005+ data points

7575 Mission Valley Rd

San Diego, CA, 92110

About Stella Moving & Delivery

Moving may not seem fun, but Stella Moving & Delivery might just change your opinion about it. A local San Diego,...

Services

  • Local moving
  • Long-distance moving
  • Small moves

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3299407 / -

Not Authorized

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans1
Registered Drivers3
Total Annual Miles Moved4,000 (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.

San Diego vs. Oceanside Neighborhood Comparison

If you're planning a move from San Diego, CA to Oceanside, CA , this neighborhood comparison will help you get familiar with your new surroundings by using your current locale as a baseline.

San DiegoOceansideHow They're Similar
La JollaSouth OceansideCoastal vibe, upscale dining
Gaslamp QuarterDowntown OceansideNightlife and entertainment
North ParkFire MountainArtsy and residential with cafes
Pacific BeachThe StrandBeachfront activities and lively scene
Little ItalyCarlsbad VillageItalian charm, local eateries
HillcrestArrowoodLGBTQ-friendly, inclusive community
CoronadoOceanside HarborScenic waterfront area
Point LomaSeagazeResidential, with marina access
Mission ValleyRancho Del OroShopping and family-oriented
EncinitasBoca Del MarCoastal beauty, surf culture

If you love the beachside charm and upscale dining of La Jolla, taking a stroll down South Oceanside will feel quite familiar with its similar coastal vibe. For those who enjoy the vibrant nightlife of the Gaslamp Quarter, Downtown Oceanside offers plenty of entertainment with its cozy breweries and live music venues. North Park's artsy and eclectic spirit finds a parallel in Fire Mountain, where local cafes and community-driven events make it a lively residential area. Meanwhile, Coronado's scenic waterfront views are mirrored at Oceanside Harbor, where you can enjoy both serene ocean vistas and bustling maritime activities. Whether you're drawn to sophisticated dining or scenic beauty, Oceanside's neighborhoods offer a welcoming environment echoing the qualities you cherish in San Diego.

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Things to Do in Oceanside

  • Stroll along Oceanside Pier
  • Visit the California Surf Museum
  • Surf at Oceanside Beach
  • Explore Mission San Luis Rey
  • Go whale watching
  • Experience the Sunset Market
  • Hike in Guajome County Park

Ready to start your move?

Pros and Cons of Moving from San Diego to Oceanside

Considering a move from San Diego, CA to Oceanside, CA? It's essential to weigh all factors involved in this relocation. This comparison aims to provide an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of moving from San Diego to Oceanside, helping you make a well-informed decision about your next big move.

CONs
PROs
San Diego, CA iconSan Diego, CA
  • Higher cost of living
  • Denser population
  • Heavier traffic
  • Less surfing spots
Oceanside, CA iconOceanside, CA
  • More affordable housing
  • Smaller community feel
  • Less congestion
  • Great surf locations
Oceanside, CA iconOceanside, CA
  • Quieter nightlife
  • More car-dependent
  • Fewer employment options
  • Fewer cultural attractions
San Diego, CA iconSan Diego, CA
  • Vibrant city life
  • Extensive public transport
  • Greater job opportunities
  • More cultural venues

Moving from San Diego to Oceanside promises a quieter, more community-focused lifestyle. While you might miss the vibrant nightlife and extensive public transportation of San Diego, Oceanside offers unique benefits like more affordable housing and less congestion. Imagine weekends not stuck in traffic but rather spent at renowned surfing spots like Oceanside Pier and Buccaneer Beach. You'll also find charming local establishments such as Local Tap House & Kitchen for dining and the Oceanside Museum of Art for culture, ensuring a rich living experience despite a quieter nightlife and fewer cultural venues compared to San Diego.

San Diego vs. Oceanside Food Guide

Understanding the local cuisine is a pivotal aspect of immersing yourself in the culture and lifestyle of a new area. This comparison of the local cuisine between San Diego & Oceanside will aid you in grasping the culinary scene of both locations, enriching your moving experience.

San Diego
Oceanside
Most iconic local food item
Fish Tacos
Carne Asada Fries
Most popular meat dish
Carne Asada Burrito
Smoked Brisket
Most popular street food item
California Burrito
Tacos
Most popular vegan food
Vegan Tacos
Vegan Sushi
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
  • George's at the Cove
  • Phil's BBQ
  • Hodad's
  • Wrench and Rodent Seabasstropub
  • That Boy Good
  • Ty's Burger House
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 moving from San Diego to Oceanside, you'll notice a shift in the culinary landscape. San Diego, with its vibrant foodie scene, offers an incredible variety of international and vegan options, epitomized by its iconic Fish Tacos and extensive food trucks. Oceanside, while slightly more laid-back, doesn't lag in flavor or innovation - Carne Asada Fries and a rich array of street tacos speak to its diversity. You might want to explore neighborhoods like Ocean Beach in San Diego for the ultimate California Burrito experience or the downtown Oceanside area, where cozy cafes and innovative restaurants like Wrench and Rodent Seabasstropub showcase the best in local cuisine. Both cities highly value health and fitness, with ample opportunities to enjoy their culinary delights guilt-free.

San Diego vs. Oceanside Restaurant Comparison

Relocating involves more than just finding a new home; it's about discovering where you'll enjoy meals and create memories. This guide comparing top San Diego restaurants to their Oceanside equivalents aims to make the transition smoother, helping you find new favorite spots reminiscent of your old haunts.

San DiegoOceansideWhat You'll Love
Mister A's333 PacificSteaks and seafood with a view, similar fine dining experience
Juniper & IvyJeune et JolieModern, inventive cuisine with a similar focus on local ingredients
The MissionBeach Break CafeRelaxed vibe and hearty, comforting breakfasts and lunches
CUCINA urbanaLocaleFarm-to-table Italian dining with a cozy, inviting atmosphere
Phil's BBQThat Boy GoodAuthentic BBQ with a down-to-earth feel and mouthwatering meats
Craft & CommerceUrge Gastropub & Whiskey BankCraft beers and gourmet pub fare, fostering a similar community hangout vibe
Hodad'sSwami's CafeIconic burger joint vibes with a side of California cool
Ironside Fish & OysterWrench & Rodent SeabasstropubA reverence for seafood with innovative dishes
Born & RaisedMasters Kitchen and CocktailStylish dining with a focus on meaty, upscale dishes
Las Cuatro MilpasMaria's CafeHomestyle Mexican cooking with a touch of family tradition

In the transition from San Diego to Oceanside, food enthusiasts will find solace in establishments like Jeune et Jolie, Oceanside's answer to Juniper & Ivy's contemporary and inventive fare. With a strong commitment to fresh, local ingredients and a uniquely modern dining experience, it promises to quickly become a favorite. Meanwhile, BBQ lovers mourning the distance to Phil's BBQ will find a satisfying alternative in That Boy Good, where the commitment to authentic, smoked flavors and a laid-back atmosphere echoes Phil's reputation. For those who prioritize a seaside dining experience, 333 Pacific in Oceanside offers an impeccable fine dining experience with stunning ocean views, echoing the high standards and ambiance of Mister A's. These comparisons are not just about similar menus but about capturing the essence of what makes dining out special in both cities.

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Ready to start your move?

San Diego vs. Oceanside Real Estate & Living Facts

When planning a move, comparing the real estate landscapes of your current city to your future home is crucial for a smooth transition. This guide provides a comprehensive comparison between San Diego and Oceanside, focusing on housing factors such as cost, architecture, and lifestyle amenities. Knowing these details will help you make an informed decision tailored to your needs and preferences.

San Diego
Oceanside
Typical Architecture Style
Modern, Spanish Colonial
Beach Cottage, Modern
Walkability
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Bikeability
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🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle
🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing
Views, Outdoor living spaces
Proximity to the beach, Family-friendly community

Despite both cities offering a vibrant Southern California lifestyle, key differences in housing can significantly impact your decision. San Diego's higher median home prices reflect its extensive urban amenities and diverse architectural styles, including Modern and Spanish Colonial homes. Oceanside, while slightly more affordable, boasts a laid-back beach community vibe with popular Beach Cottage designs and a strong emphasis on family-friendly environments. The contrast in bikeability scores highlights Oceanside's slightly more bike-friendly infrastructure, appealing to outdoor enthusiasts. These nuances between San Diego's cosmopolitan flair and Oceanside's relaxed beach lifestyle can guide you in choosing a city that aligns with your lifestyle preferences and needs.

Pet-friendly neighborhoods background image

Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Oceanside, CA

1. Fire Mountain : You’ll love Fire Mountain for its spacious parks and abundant walking trails perfect for you and your pet.

2. South Oceanside : This neighborhood offers easy access to dog-friendly beaches and a supportive community for pet lovers like you.

3. Loma Alta : Known for its welcoming atmosphere, Loma Alta features numerous pet-friendly amenities and outdoor activities for you and your pet to enjoy together.

San Diego vs. Oceanside Weather Considerations

When planning a move, understanding how the weather may change is crucial. This comparison between San Diego and Oceanside's weather provides vital insights. Knowing what to expect can help you prepare for your new environment, impacting everything from your daily comfort to seasonal activities.

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

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

76°F / 68°F
73°F / 64°F
Winter icon

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

66°F / 50°F
64°F / 45°F


Rainfall icon

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

10.34
13.98
Snowfall icon

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

0
0


While San Diego and Oceanside share many weather characteristics, there are subtle differences. Oceanside tends to have slightly cooler summers and colder winters, which might influence your wardrobe choices. Notably, Oceanside receives more annual rainfall, an essential factor for garden enthusiasts or if you're planning to design your landscape. Despite these variances, both cities boast a pleasant climate with ample sunshine, though Oceanside's slightly higher humidity and moderate air quality compared to San Diego's good air quality may be a consideration for those sensitive to such conditions.

Ready to start your move?

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

When planning a move, it's crucial to consider how your finances will be impacted. This comparison between San Diego and Oceanside aims to give you a clear understanding of what to expect in terms of income, taxes, living expenses, and more. Knowing these differences will help ensure you're financially prepared for your new home.

San Diego
Oceanside
Avg. Household Income
$93,042
$78,125
Cost of Living Index
132.3
136.4
State Income Tax
9.3
9.3
Avg. Property Tax
0.76
0.79
Avg. Sales Tax
7.75
8.25
Top 3 Industries
Military, Tourism, International Trade
Manufacturing, Retail, Education Services
Affluence
High
Moderate
Poverty
Moderate
High
Homelessness
Significant
Moderate

The average household income in San Diego is notably higher than in Oceanside, reflecting perhaps the broader economic opportunities available in a larger city. However, this also comes with a higher cost of living, which is evident in San Diego's comparatively higher cost of living index. Both cities follow California's state income tax rate, but it's worth noting that sales tax is slightly higher in Oceanside. When considering moving, it's also important to look at the housing market and property taxes, as even small percentage differences can impact your finances significantly. The contrast in top industries between the two cities highlights the diverse economic landscapes, potentially affecting job opportunities in your field. Understanding these differences is crucial in making an informed decision that aligns with your financial and professional goals.

San Diego vs. Oceanside Political & Religious Comparison

As you consider the transition from San Diego to Oceanside, it becomes crucial to understand the communities you're moving between. This comparison offers a quick snapshot, focusing primarily on the politics between San Diego & Oceanside and the religious makeup of residents, helping you grasp the local culture and societal values at a glance.

San Diego
Oceanside
Political Make-up
Liberal-Dominant
Moderately Liberal
Local Politics
Democratic Majority in Local Government
Mixed Political Representation
Religion
Diverse, with a significant Christian population
Christian majority, with growing diversity

In moving from San Diego to Oceanside, you'll find subtle yet significant shifts in the community's ideological landscape. While San Diego has a strong liberal leaning reflected in its political representation, Oceanside presents a more mixed political environment, accommodating a broader spectrum of political beliefs. This is mirrored in local politics too, where San Diego's governance is predominantly Democrat, whereas Oceanside enjoys more varied political representation, hinting at a community open to diverse viewpoints. The religious landscape in both cities underscores a predominant Christian majority. However, Oceanside, much like San Diego, is becoming increasingly diverse in its religious affiliations, reflecting a broader trend of growing cultural and spiritual diversity in Southern California. Understanding these nuances will help you seamlessly integrate into your new community.

San Diego vs. Oceanside Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

When considering a move from San Diego to Oceanside, it's crucial to understand how this change may affect your daily commute. This comparison is dedicated to giving you a clearer view of the traffic and transportation options between San Diego & Oceanside, so you can plan your days more effectively.

San Diego
Oceanside
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)
24
27
Traffic Congestion
7 out of 10
5 out of 10
Availability of Public Transit
6 out of 10
4 out of 10
Can you get by without a car?
Possible, but challenging
Difficult

In San Diego, you might find yourself spending a little less time in traffic compared to Oceanside, suggesting a slightly more efficient flow despite the city's larger size. The difference in average commute times is not drastic but can be noticeable over time. Additionally, San Diego offers better public transit options, which can be a key consideration if you prefer not driving every day. In Oceanside, you might face more challenges getting around without a car. Though the traffic congestion tends to be less severe, the lower availability of public transit options can make car ownership more of a necessity for your daily travels.

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