Best San Diego to Santa Clarita Movers + Moving Guide

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If you're moving from San Diego to Santa Clarita and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 153 mile long distance California move go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 134 San Diego to Santa Clarita 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 Santa Clarita. 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 Santa Clarita Moving Companies

Phone (800) 787-5428

How Much Does it Cost to Move from San Diego to Santa Clarita?

Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 153 miles from San Diego, CA to Santa Clarita, CA will cost on average $1,911 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom San Diego to Santa Clarita move is roughly $4,562. 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$1,289300 ft³$4.30
1 Bedroom$1,911450 ft³$4.25
2 Bedrooms$3,148750 ft³$4.20
3 Bedrooms$4,5621100 ft³$4.15
4 Bedrooms$6,5561600 ft³$4.10
5+ Bedrooms$7,2851800 ft³$4.05
*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 Santa Clarita to San Diego guide.

Compare the 5 Best San Diego to Santa Clarita Movers

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

Fastruck Moving Company Logo

Fastruck Moving Company

Exceptional9.78/10
based on 2,882+ data points

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

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3056069 / -

Not Authorized

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans4
Registered Drivers4
Total Annual Miles Moved47,516 (2022)
View Full Review
1
Roadway Moving - LA Moving Company Logo

Roadway Moving - LA Moving Company

Exceptional9.74/10
based on 2,624+ data points

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
View Full Review
2
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
3
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
4
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
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. Santa Clarita Neighborhood Comparison

Getting to know a new city is easier when you have a point of reference. This guide aims to help you explore local neighborhoods between San Diego, CA & Santa Clarita, CA by comparing neighborhoods from both places, allowing you to find familiar vibes in an unfamiliar setting.

San DiegoSanta ClaritaHow They're Similar
La JollaValenciaUpscale, coastal feel
Gaslamp QuarterOld Town NewhallVibrant nightlife
North ParkNewhallTrendy, artsy vibe
Pacific BeachCanyon CountryBeachy, laid-back
HillcrestSaugusDiverse, inclusive community
CoronadoStevenson RanchScenic, well-planned
Point LomaPlum CanyonHarbor views, historic
Little ItalyBridgeportOld world charm, culinary delights
EncinitasFair Oaks RanchSurf-friendly, eco-conscious
Del MarWestridgeLuxurious, coastal living

If you enjoy strolling through the upscale boutiques and cafes of La Jolla, Valencia in Santa Clarita offers a similarly sophisticated atmosphere with its fine dining options and manicured parks like Westfield Valencia Town Center. For those who love the vibrant nightlife of San Diego's Gaslamp Quarter, Old Town Newhall provides an equally lively scene with its local theatres and annual festivals. The artsy and eclectic charm of North Park has a twin in Newhall, where you'll find plenty of galleries and cultural events to pique your interest. Meanwhile, if you're fond of Pacific Beach's laid-back, sun-soaked vibe, you'll find the coastal allure alive and well in Canyon Country, where the Santa Clara River and nearby hiking trails offer plenty of outdoor leisure opportunities.

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Things to Do in Santa Clarita

  • Ride thrilling coasters at Six Flags Magic Mountain
  • Explore local hiking trails
  • Enjoy a show at The Canyon
  • Relax in William S. Hart Park
  • Visit the Santa Clarita Valley Historical Society Museum
  • Sample wines at Agua Dulce Winery
  • Stroll through Old Town Newhall

Ready to start your move?

Pros and Cons of Moving from San Diego to Santa Clarita

Moving from one city to another can be a daunting yet exciting process. In this comparison, we aim to provide an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of relocating from San Diego, CA to Santa Clarita, CA. Understanding both pros and cons will help in making an informed decision, ensuring that your move aligns with your lifestyle and needs.

CONs
PROs
San Diego, CA iconSan Diego, CA
  • Higher cost of living
  • Heavy traffic
  • Fewer job opportunities
  • Dense urban setting
Santa Clarita, CA iconSanta Clarita, CA
  • More affordable housing
  • Less traffic congestion
  • Expanding job market
  • Suburban lifestyle
Santa Clarita, CA iconSanta Clarita, CA
  • No immediate beaches
  • Hotter summers
  • Fewer cultural venues
  • Quieter nightlife
San Diego, CA iconSan Diego, CA
  • Beaches and coastlines
  • Warm climate year-round
  • Rich cultural scene
  • Vibrant nightlife

While San Diego boasts beautiful beaches such as La Jolla Cove and an enviable warm climate year-round, the appeal of a suburban lifestyle in Santa Clarita, with its more affordable housing and less congested roads, cannot be overlooked. Santa Clarita offers a quieter, yet enriching life with gems like Central Park that graces the community with vast green spaces and outdoor activities. For dining and entertainment, Old Town Newhall presents an array of restaurants, theaters, and boutiques. Santa Clarita's expanding job market, particularly in tech and entertainment industries, indicates a flourishing economy. Embracing the shift, you will discover that each city's unique attributes contribute substantially to your quality of life.

San Diego vs. Santa Clarita Food Guide

Understanding the local food culture is key to getting a real taste of where you'll be living. We'll compare the local cuisine between San Diego & Santa Clarita to help you grasp what culinary delights await. Whether you're a foodie or just looking for your next favorite meal, this guide aims to make your move tastier.

San Diego
Santa Clarita
Most iconic local food item
Fish Tacos
Tri-tip
Most popular meat dish
Carne Asada
Pulled Pork
Most popular street food item
California Burritos
Food Truck Tacos
Most popular vegan food
Avocado Toast
Quinoa Salad
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
  • Hodad's
  • Phil's BBQ
  • Juniper & Ivy
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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San Diego's vibrant food scene is epitomized by its love for fish tacos and the iconic California burrito, filled with carne asada and fries, perfect for a day out at the beach. For those seeking a vibrant, health-conscious lifestyle, San Diego offers an abundance of fresh, vegan options like the popular avocado toast. Notable neighborhoods such as Little Italy or the Gaslamp Quarter are hotspots for food enthusiasts, showcasing establishments like Juniper & Ivy. Meanwhile, Santa Clarita offers a more refined taste with its specialty in tri-tip and a cozier, yet no less enthusiastic food truck scene, featuring local gems like the food trucks that frequent the Old Town Newhall area. Santa Clarita's restaurants, like Newhall Refinery, bring a unique blend of gourmet and traditional dishes that reflect the city's growing culinary scene.

San Diego vs. Santa Clarita Restaurant Comparison

When relocating from San Diego to Santa Clarita, finding the right dining spots can transform a new city into your home. This comparison aims to ease your transition by matching San Diego's top restaurants to their Santa Clarita equivalents, ensuring you can still enjoy your favorite meals after the move.

San DiegoSanta ClaritaWhat You'll Love
Juniper & IvyNewhall RefineryGourmet American dining with a creative twist
Phil’s BBQSmokehouse on MainAuthentic BBQ flavors with a cozy atmosphere
George’s at the CoveLarsen’s SteakhouseExceptional seafood and steak with stunning views
Lolita’s Mexican FoodSabor Cocina MexicanaTraditional Mexican dishes in a vibrant setting
Mitch’s SeafoodFish Tail GrillFresh seafood offerings reminiscent of coastal catch
Cucina UrbanaMarston’s RestaurantCozy Italian fare with a Californian twist
Hodad’sTommy’s DinerClassic diner experience known for their burgers
PuestoTaqueria Los AltosInnovative tacos with fresh, quality ingredients
Born & RaisedThe Old Town JunctionModern steakhouse with a chic ambiance
Extraordinary DessertsSweet Beams Ice CreamHome to unique and indulgent dessert experiences

If you're longing for the innovative and gourmet touch Juniper & Ivy offers in San Diego, Newhall Refinery in Santa Clarita will not disappoint with its inventive American cuisine and cozy, inviting atmosphere. Meanwhile, seafood enthusiasts who frequented Mitch’s Seafood will find solace at Fish Tail Grill, where the catch of the day is always fresh and the flavors remind one of the ocean’s bounty. Transitioning from San Diego doesn’t mean leaving behind the culinary experiences you cherish. Santa Clarita is home to vibrant dining options that promise to mirror the diverse and rich food scene you've come to love.

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Ready to start your move?

San Diego vs. Santa Clarita Real Estate & Living Facts

Real estate is a vital component when planning a move, and comparing the housing landscape between San Diego, CA and Santa Clarita, CA can offer insightful differences. This includes aspects such as cost , architecture , and lifestyle to aid in making an informed decision.

San Diego
Santa Clarita
Typical Architecture Style
Spanish Colonial, Modern
Suburban, Ranch
Walkability
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Bikeability
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Urban Lifestyle
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Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing
Ocean Views, Proximity to Beaches
Family-friendly, Quiet Neighborhoods

Comparing the housing markets of San Diego and Santa Clarita reveals nuanced differences crucial for a potential move. San Diego's higher median home price reflects its desirable beachside locations and vibrant urban environment, suited for those prioritizing ocean views and an active city life. Conversely, Santa Clarita is tailored more towards families looking for a quieter, suburban feel without the hefty price tag of coastal cities. Despite a lower walkability and bikeability score, Santa Clarita’s emphasis on family-friendly neighborhoods and the presence of ranch-style homes cater to a different lifestyle, providing spacious living at a more affordable cost. Both cities boast unique characteristics that can cater to a variety of preferences, dependent on one's priorities in lifestyle, budget, and amenities.

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Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Santa Clarita, CA

1. Valencia : You'll find an abundance of walking trails and pet-friendly parks, making it easy for you and your furry friends to enjoy the outdoors.

2. Stevenson Ranch : This neighborhood offers expansive green spaces and a welcoming community atmosphere that embraces pet ownership.

3. Canyon Country : With its plentiful hiking paths and dog parks, Canyon Country provides the perfect backdrop for you and your pets to explore and play.

San Diego vs. Santa Clarita Weather Considerations

When moving from one location to another, it's essential to consider how the weather will change. This comparison between San Diego and Santa Clarita helps paint a clearer picture of what to expect and how to prepare for your new environment.

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

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

76°F / 68°F
97°F / 68°F
Winter icon

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

67°F / 49°F
64°F / 39°F


Rainfall icon

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

10.34"
19"
Snowfall icon

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

0"
0"


While both San Diego and Santa Clarita enjoy abundant sunshine throughout the year, Santa Clarita experiences a significant difference in summer temperatures with highs reaching the upper 90s compared to San Diego's milder summer climate. Additionally, Santa Clarita has lower humidity levels, making the hotter temperatures somewhat more comfortable. However, it's also worth noting that Santa Clarita experiences colder winters, particularly in terms of nighttime temperatures. The higher annual rainfall in Santa Clarita compared to San Diego could translate to more green scenery throughout the year. Finally, air quality and top seasonal allergies indicate environmental aspects that could impact your comfort and health after the move.

Ready to start your move?

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

Moving between cities requires a deep dive into financial implications to adjust your lifestyle seamlessly. Understanding the cost of living, income, and tax differences between San Diego and Santa Clarita is crucial. This comparison will guide you through vital monetary measures to help make an informed decision.

San Diego
Santa Clarita
Avg. Household Income
$93,042
$109,336
Cost of Living Index
132.3
136.4
State Income Tax
13.3 (max)
13.3 (max)
Avg. Property Tax
0.77
0.72
Avg. Sales Tax
7.75
9.50
Top 3 Industries
Military, Tourism, International Trade
Education, Health Care, Entertainment
Affluence
High
Higher
Poverty
Moderate
Lower
Homelessness
Significant
Moderate

When comparing San Diego to Santa Clarita, you'll find that while both cities are located within California and are subject to the same state income tax rates, there are significant differences in average household income, cost of living indices, and taxation. Notably, Santa Clarita boasts a higher average income, which is coupled with a slightly lower cost of living index. However, it's worth noting the higher sales tax in Santa Clarita compared to San Diego. The top industries also differ significantly, reflecting the distinct economic landscapes of the two cities. These factors collectively contribute to a comparative aspect of affluence, poverty levels, and homelessness between both cities. Understanding these nuances is key to managing your expectations and financial planning effectively when making a move.

San Diego vs. Santa Clarita Political & Religious Comparison

If you're planning a move from San Diego to Santa Clarita, it's important to know how these cities compare. This quick snapshot will grant you insight into the comparison of the politics and religious makeup between San Diego & Santa Clarita, helping you understand the new community you will be joining.

San Diego
Santa Clarita
Political Make-up
Democratic-leaning
Moderate, with a mix of both Democratic and Republican supporters
Local Politics
Active grassroots movements and inclusivity in decision making
Community-focused governance, with emphasis on local business and safety
Religion
Diverse religious communities with emphasis on inclusivity
Presence of various faiths, with Christianity being prominent

When analyzing the political landscape, San Diego has historically leaned towards the Democratic Party, showcasing strong grassroots movements that champion inclusivity and progressive policies. In contrast, Santa Clarita presents a more moderate political makeup, balancing between Democratic and Republican values, with a strong community focus in its governance. This city places great importance on supporting local businesses and maintaining public safety. Religious life in both cities is varied, with San Diego highlighting its commitment to religious diversity and inclusivity. Meanwhile, in Santa Clarita, while the religious landscape is also diverse, Christian communities have a notable presence, reflected in several local churches and religious organizations that play a significant role in community activities and services.

San Diego vs. Santa Clarita Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

Considering a move from San Diego, CA to Santa Clarita, CA? It's crucial to understand the differences in daily commute and traffic. This comparison of traffic and transportation options between San Diego & Santa Clarita will provide you with insights to make your transition smoother.

San Diego
Santa Clarita
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)
24
30
Traffic Congestion
7 out of 10
6 out of 10
Availability of Public Transit
6 out of 10
4 out of 10
Can you get by without a car?
Possibly, with some effort
Challenging

In San Diego, the average commute time is slightly shorter than in Santa Clarita, making daily travel a bit more manageable. San Diego also has a somewhat higher level of traffic congestion, but it compensates with better public transportation options, allowing some residents to navigate the city without a car. In contrast, Santa Clarita, while having slightly less traffic congestion, offers less in terms of public transportation, making it more challenging to get by without owning a car. These factors are essential to consider when planning your move and daily commute in your new city.

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