Best San Diego to San Jose Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from San Diego to San Jose and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 461 mile long distance California move go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 159 San Diego to San Jose 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 Sweet Lemon Moving Services), 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 San Diego compared to San Jose. 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 San Jose Moving Companies
| Rank | Company | Score  | Affordability Index |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Sweet Lemon Moving Services | 9.78 | 9.67 |
| 2 | Little Guy Big Truck Moving | 9.70 | 9.81 |
| 3 | Pure Moving Company | 9.65 | 9.41 |
| 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 San Jose?
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 461 miles from San Diego, CA to San Jose, CA will cost on average $2,173 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom San Diego to San Jose move is roughly $5,202. 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 | $1,464 | 300 ft³ | $4.88 |
| 1 Bedroom | $2,173 | 450 ft³ | $4.83 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $3,585 | 750 ft³ | $4.78 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $5,202 | 1100 ft³ | $4.73 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $7,487 | 1600 ft³ | $4.68 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $8,333 | 1800 ft³ | $4.63 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from San Jose to San Diego guide.
Compare the 5 Best San Diego to San Jose Movers
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
Sweet Lemon Moving Services
403 Elwood Ave
Oakland, CA, 94610
About Sweet Lemon Moving Services
As a full-service moving company, Sweet Lemon Moving Services has been performing moves in Oakland and the wider Bay Area since...
Services
- Local Moves
- Interstate Moves
- Commercial Moves
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3277021 / - Not Authorized Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 8 |
| Registered Drivers | 8 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 5,000 (2021) |
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
Pure Moving Company
401 Terry A Francois Blvd # 110
San Francisco, CA, 94158
About Pure Moving Company
With four locations in two states, Pure Moving Company has been offering professional and full-service moves in San Francisco since 2000....
Services
- Residential Moving
- Commercial Moving
- Long Distance Moving
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. San Jose Neighborhood Comparison
If you're moving and looking to settle comfortably in an unfamiliar surrounding, our guide helps compare the local neighborhoods between San Diego, CA & San Jose, CA to ensure you find a familiar vibe and amenities like those you love in your current city.
| San Diego | San Jose | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| La Jolla | Willow Glen | Quaint, seaside feel |
| Gaslamp Quarter | Downtown San Jose | Vibrant nightlife |
| North Park | Japantown | Hip, artsy community |
| Pacific Beach | Alviso | Coastal vibes, beach-oriented |
| Hillcrest | Rose Garden | Eclectic, culturally diverse |
| Little Italy | Little Portugal | Historic, European influences |
| Ocean Beach | Santa Clara | Laid-back, beach-close |
| South Park | The Alameda | Cozy, community-focused |
| Carmel Valley | Silver Creek | Family-friendly suburbs |
| Point Loma | Evergreen | Harbor views, historic charm |
Transitioning from the upscale, oceanfront allure of La Jolla to Willow Glen, you'll find a similarly charming seaside atmosphere, complete with quaint bungalows and a tight-knit community. Both areas offer scenic walks and locally-owned shops that enhance their unique personalities. If you've loved the bustling nightlife and rich historic character of San Diego's Gaslamp Quarter, Downtown San Jose will greet you with its own vibrant energy, featuring popular bars and renowned eateries such as Original Joe's. For those who cherish the eclectic mix of Hillcrest, with its diverse dining options like Urban MO's and cultural events, the Rose Garden neighborhood in San Jose offers a harmonious blend of history and diversity, highlighted by its namesake garden and bustling Farmers' Markets.
Things to Do in San Jose
Explore The Tech Interactive museum- Stroll through Japanese Friendship Garden
- Watch a San Jose Sharks hockey game
- Enjoy shopping and dining at Santana Row
- Hike in Coyote Valley Open Space Preserve
- Visit Rosicrucian Egyptian Museum
- Sample wines at Santa Clara Valley wineries
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from San Diego to San Jose
Moving from San Diego, CA to San Jose, CA presents a unique blend of opportunities and challenges. This comparison aims to give an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of this relocation, helping you weigh your options effectively.
San Diego, CA- Higher living costs
- Less tech opportunities
- Fewer cultural venues
- Milder weather
San Jose, CA- Strong job market
- Heart of Silicon Valley
- Rich cultural scene
- Diverse climate
San Jose, CA- Far from ocean
- Fast-paced lifestyle
- Quieter nightlife
- High tech pressure
San Diego, CA- Beautiful beaches
- Laid-back vibe
- Vibrant nightlife
- Lower tech pressure
Moving from San Diego to San Jose offers a blend of new opportunities and challenges. While you might miss the unparalleled beaches like La Jolla Shores, a treasure of San Diego, you'll find Silicon Valley's heart in San Jose brimming with career opportunities, especially in tech. Places like Downtown San Jose offer a vibrant cultural scene with numerous museums, restaurants like Original Joe's, and tech hubs. San Jose's Alum Rock Park and the Rosicrucian Egyptian Museum provide unique outdoor and cultural experiences, contrasting with San Diego’s laid-back coastal vibe and beachfront attractions. This transition may shift your lifestyle pace but promise exciting growth and exploration prospects in the bustling Silicon Valley.
San Diego vs. San Jose Food Guide
Understanding that food is an essential part of local culture and what it’s like to live in an area, we've crafted a guide to help you navigate the culinary waters. Here is a comparison of the local cuisine between San Diego & San Jose so you can be better informed about the food scene in your new city.
- Phil's BBQ
- Hodad's
- Juniper & Ivy
- Falafel's Drive-In
- Original Joe's
- Adega
When moving from San Diego to San Jose, you'll notice a shift from the Baja Mexican influences to a more varied international palette, particularly Asian cuisines. San Diego's acclaimed for its fish tacos, found in neighborhoods like La Jolla and Pacific Beach, offering ocean-fresh ingredients. On the other hand, San Jose, nestled in Silicon Valley, boasts a vibrant Vietnamese community that makes it the place to go for authentic Pho and Banh Mi, with areas around Downtown being hotspots for food explorers. Both cities cater well to vegan diets, but San Diego's coastal influence adds a unique touch to its vegan offerings. The abundant food truck scenes in both cities reflect their dynamic, ever-evolving culinary landscapes, perfect for foodies looking to explore local flavors.
San Diego vs. San Jose Restaurant Comparison
Moving to a new city can stir up a mix of emotions, but finding comfort in familiar flavors makes the transition smoother. This restaurant comparison between San Diego and San Jose is designed to help you discover new favorite spots that comfort and excite your palate, using your fond memories of San Diego restaurants as a guide. Let's embark on this culinary comparison to make San Jose feel like home.
| San Diego | San Jose | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Juniper & Ivy | Plumed Horse | Michelin-starred, offers a comparable upscale dining experience |
| Phil's BBQ | Smoking Pig BBQ | Known for its hearty portions and authentic BBQ flavors |
| Las Cuatro Milpas | La Victoria Taqueria | Famous for its orange sauce, offers similar traditional Mexican fare |
| George's at the Cove | Le Papillon | Fine dining with stunning views, parallels the upscale yet approachable cuisine |
| Mitch's Seafood | Scott's Seafood | Fresh catch of the day, offers a similar waterfront dining experience |
| Hodad's | St. John's Bar & Grill | Best for burgers and a laid-back atmosphere, similar to Hodad's vibe |
| Puesto | Zona Rosa | Offers artisanal tacos and tequila in a vibrant setting |
| Cucina Urbana | Di Matteo's | A blend of Italian and Californian cuisine, echoing Cucina Urbana's menu |
| The Crack Shack | Fowl Play | Offers a range of gourmet chicken dishes in a casual, fun atmosphere |
| Born & Raised | Alexander's Steakhouse | Combines fine steaks with inventive cuisine, a luxe choice |
San Diego and San Jose, though miles apart, share a vibrant food scene that excels at offering both locals and visitors a rich dining experience. For instance, if Juniper & Ivy in San Diego is your go-to for an upscale dining escapade, San Jose's Plumed Horse will not disappoint, serving Michelin-starred meals that are refined and memorable. - Plumed Horse BBQ enthusiasts who swear by Phil's BBQ's smoky flavors and succulent meats will find a kindred spirit in San Jose's Smoking Pig BBQ, where the barbecue is prepared with an equal level of passion and skill. And for those craving the coastal charm and fresh seafood of Mitch's Seafood, Scott's Seafood in San Jose offers a waterside dining experience that's sure to evoke fond memories of San Diego's oceanfront eateries. This culinary bridge between San Diego and San Jose ensures you'll discover new spots to enjoy, reflecting the flavors you've always cherished.
Ready to start your move?
San Diego vs. San Jose Real Estate & Living Facts
When planning a move, diving into the real estate comparisons between San Diego and San Jose offers vital insights. This guide emphasizes the housing costs, architectural styles, and lifestyle differences to assist in making an informed decision.
While San Diego homes proudly display Spanish Colonial architecture, San Jose offers a mix, including Modern and iconic Eichler homes, reflecting its high-tech surroundings. Though San Jose's median home price and rent are higher, it compensates with a slightly better urban lifestyle score, indicating a bustling city life. Additionally, both cities prioritize outdoor living, but San Diego's listings tend to emphasize beach proximity, while San Jose focuses on its tech industry and family-friendly neighborhoods.
Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in San Jose, CA
1. Willow Glen : You'll love the tree-lined streets and abundance of pet-friendly parks and amenities that make outdoor exploration with your furry friend convenient and enjoyable.
2. Japantown : This neighborhood's welcoming community vibe and nearby parks provide you and your pet plenty of space to enjoy leisurely strolls and social interactions.
3. Rose Garden : With its expansive green spaces and walkable layout, this area offers numerous dog-friendly cafes and shops, making it perfect for pet-owners like you.
San Diego vs. San Jose Weather Considerations
When planning a move from San Diego to San Jose, it is crucial to understand how the weather will shift, ensuring you're well-prepared. The following comparison charts outline the key climatic differences between San Diego and San Jose to help you adapt seamlessly to your new environment.
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Though both San Diego and San Jose enjoy a generous amount of sunshine throughout the year, it's noteworthy that San Jose experiences slightly cooler winters and warmer summers than San Diego. The average annual humidity is higher in San Jose, which might require some adjustment. Both cities are prone to earthquakes and wildfires, making disaster preparedness essential. Additionally, given San Jose’s higher average rainfall, you might experience more rainy days compared to San Diego. Understanding these differences can help you make necessary adjustments for a comfortable living experience in your new city.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from San Diego to San Jose
Moving from one city to another requires a keen understanding of how your finances will be affected. This comparison will highlight the differences in money and finance between San Diego and San Jose, giving you a clearer picture of what to expect. Understanding these differences is crucial for a seamless transition.
Moving from San Diego to San Jose, you'll encounter a significant shift in the cost of living, with San Jose presenting a much higher index. This correlates with the higher average household income in San Jose, influenced by the booming technology sector—one of the top industries in the area. It's also important to note the variation in sales tax, where San Jose has a higher rate. However, the economic prosperity in San Jose leads to a lower poverty rate and a slightly better situation regarding homelessness compared to San Diego, despite the higher costs. Understanding these dynamics is essential for managing your finances effectively in your new home.
San Diego vs. San Jose Political & Religious Comparison
When considering a move from San Diego, CA to San Jose, CA, it's helpful to know who your new neighbors might be. This guide provides a comparison of the politics between San Diego & San Jose alongside a brief look into the religious landscape in both cities. The aim is to give you a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents in these two Californian cities.
The political landscapes in both San Diego and San Jose lean heavily towards the Democrat side, but the local issues they focus on are notably different due to their unique geographical and economic contexts. San Diego, being closer to the border, often grapples with border-related issues, while San Jose, nestled in the heart of Silicon Valley, prioritizes technology and housing matters. Religion in both cities is predominantly Christian, but San Jose stands out for its greater diversity in religious practices, reflecting its large Asian American community. This diversity is not just seen in the demographics but also in the cultural and religious centers found throughout the city.
San Diego vs. San Jose Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
This comparison between San Diego & San Jose will help you better understand what the daily commute and traffic is like, as well as the differences in transportation options. Whether you're driving or using public transit, this guide aims to prepare you for your new city.
San Jose has a slightly longer average commute time compared to San Diego due to its higher level of traffic congestion. Even though both cities have moderate access to public transit, San Jose scores a bit higher, indicating a more robust public transportation network. This makes living without a car more feasible in San Jose, especially if you plan to rely on VTA services for your daily commute. In contrast, navigating San Diego without a personal vehicle may prove challenging, though services like MTS are making strides to improve accessibility and coverage.
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