Best San Diego to Santa Rosa Movers + Moving Guide

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If you're moving from San Diego to Santa Rosa and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 549 mile long distance California move go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 111 San Diego to Santa Rosa 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 Quantum 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 San Diego compared to Santa Rosa. 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 Rosa Moving Companies

Company
Score Question
Affordability Index
1Quantum Moving9.719.78
2Little Guy Big Truck Moving9.709.81
3Fresh Start Movers9.679.44
41st Choice Movers9.639.7
524/7 Moving and Storage9.559.52
Phone (800) 787-5428

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

Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 549 miles from San Diego, CA to Santa Rosa, CA will cost on average $2,248 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom San Diego to Santa Rosa move is roughly $5,385. 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$1,514300 ft³$5.05
1 Bedroom$2,248450 ft³$5.00
2 Bedrooms$3,709750 ft³$4.95
3 Bedrooms$5,3851100 ft³$4.90
4 Bedrooms$7,7531600 ft³$4.85
5+ Bedrooms$8,6321800 ft³$4.80
*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 Rosa to San Diego guide.

Compare the 5 Best San Diego to Santa Rosa Movers

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

Quantum Moving Logo

Quantum Moving

Exceptional9.71/10
based on 1,349+ data points

535 Main St

Martinez, CA, 94553

About Quantum Moving

Quantum Moving is located in Martinez, California, and has been serving families and businesses in the surrounding areas with local and...

Services

  • Bay Area Local Moving Services
  • Long Distance Moving Services Within California
  • Commercial Office Moves

Interstate Moving License

Circle X Mark
Not Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/10/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3163557 / -

Not Authorized

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans3
Registered Drivers5
Total Annual Miles Moved35,000 (2022)
View Full Review
1
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
2
Fresh Start Movers Logo

Fresh Start Movers

Exceptional9.67/10
based on 1,689+ data points

1055 14th St Unit A

Santa Rosa, CA, 95404

About Fresh Start Movers

Fresh Start Movers upholds an impressive 100% customer satisfaction and 0% claims rate. It has years of experience serving customers in...

Services

  • Local Moving
  • Commercial Moves
  • Packing Services
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 Rosa Neighborhood Comparison

To help you familiarize yourself with an unknown city using your current surroundings as a reference, we'll be doing a comparison of the local neighborhoods between San Diego, CA & Santa Rosa, CA . This will help ease your transition by showing you the closest equivalent neighborhoods in both cities.

San DiegoSanta RosaHow They're Similar
La JollaFountaingroveScenic views, luxury homes
Gaslamp QuarterRailroad SquareBustling nightlife, historic charm
North ParkSouth A StreetArtsy vibe, trendy cafes
Little ItalyD Street CorridorAuthentic Italian eateries
Pacific BeachBennett ValleyOutdoor activities, youthful energy
HillcrestDowntown Santa RosaDiverse, inclusive community
Mission HillsProctor TerraceQuaint streets, historic ambiance
Carmel ValleySkyhawkFamily-friendly, suburban feel
Ocean BeachMontecito HeightsLaid-back, coastal views
Bankers HillCherry StreetTree-lined streets, close to parks

In San Diego, La Jolla's scenic vistas and luxurious homes find their counterpart in Santa Rosa's Fountaingrove, where Mediterranean-inspired estates overlook breathtaking landscapes. The energetic vibe of San Diego's Gaslamp Quarter mirrors the historic and lively Railroad Square in Santa Rosa, both teeming with vibrant nightlife and unique architectural charm. If you're drawn to the artsy and eclectic North Park, you'll discover a similar creative spirit in South A Street, where artisanal cafes and local art spots invite exploration. Finally, Santa Rosa's D Street Corridor offers a slice of Italy with authentic eateries that evoke the quaint, gastronomic experiences of San Diego's Little Italy.

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Things to Do in Santa Rosa

  • Kayak on Spring Lake
  • Explore Safari West Wildlife Preserve
  • Visit Schulz Museum for cartoon fans
  • Taste craft beer at Russian River Brewing
  • Tour Sonoma vineyards for wine enthusiasts
  • Family fun at Howarth Park
  • Hike in Annadel State Park

Ready to start your move?

Pros and Cons of Moving from San Diego to Santa Rosa

Moving from San Diego, CA to Santa Rosa, CA is an important life event that requires careful consideration. This comparison aims to elucidate the advantages and disadvantages of doing so. By illustrating the pros and cons of each city, we offer an honest reflection to help you make a well-informed decision.

CONs
PROs
San Diego, CA iconSan Diego, CA
  • Higher Living Cost
  • More Crowded
  • Hotter Summers
Santa Rosa, CA iconSanta Rosa, CA
  • Lower Housing Cost
  • Less Populated
  • Cooler Climate
Santa Rosa, CA iconSanta Rosa, CA
  • Fewer Beaches
  • Quieter Nightlife
  • Less Variety
San Diego, CA iconSan Diego, CA
  • Beach Access
  • Vibrant Nightlife
  • Diverse Cuisine

While San Diego is famed for its impeccable beaches such as La Jolla Shores and bustling nightlife evident in the Gaslamp Quarter, Santa Rosa counters with a serene wine country atmosphere and cooler climate. Nestled in Sonoma County, Santa Rosa is a haven for wine enthusiasts with gems like the Kendall-Jackson Wine Estate & Gardens and provides a peaceful retreat with green spaces such as Annadel State Park. Additionally, Santa Rosa’s historic Railroad Square offers a quaint alternative to San Diego’s city vibe, where one can explore unique local shops and restaurants like Stark's Steak & Seafood. This nuanced perspective underscores the important trade-offs between two distinct Californian lifestyles.

San Diego vs. Santa Rosa Food Guide

When considering a move, the difference in the local cuisine can tell you a lot about what life will be like in your new home. That's why we're highlighting a comparison of the local cuisine between San Diego & Santa Rosa . This comparison will give you a taste of the unique food culture waiting for you.

San Diego
Santa Rosa
Most iconic local food item
Fish Tacos
Wine Country Cuisine
Most popular meat dish
Carne Asada
Grass-fed Sonoma Lamb
Most popular street food item
California Burrito
Santa Rosa Plums
Most popular vegan food
Avocado Toast
Quinoa Stuffed Peppers
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
  • Juniper & Ivy
  • Cucina Urbana
  • Mister A's
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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In San Diego, the food scene is heavily influenced by its proximity to Mexico, leading to the popularity of items like fish tacos and carne asada, which can be found in bustling neighborhoods like Little Italy and the Gaslamp Quarter. On the other hand, Santa Rosa showcases its proximity to Northern California wine country with cuisine that often incorporates fresh, local ingredients such as the renowned Sonoma lamb. Restaurants like Stark's Steak & Seafood and Willi's Wine Bar exemplify the region's dedication to refined, locally-sourced dishes. For those moving from San Diego to Santa Rosa, the transition from fish tacos on the beach to dining amidst the vineyards will be a delightful exploration of Northern California's culinary delights.

San Diego vs. Santa Rosa Restaurant Comparison

Finding comfort in a new city often starts with discovering your go-to spots for dining out. This San Diego to Santa Rosa restaurant comparison will guide you in finding new favorite eateries that resonate with your palate and preferences. Let the culinary journey from San Diego to Santa Rosa begin.

San DiegoSanta RosaWhat You'll Love
Juniper & IvyStark's Steak & SeafoodBoth offer an upscale dining experience with a focus on high-quality ingredients.
Phil's BBQCarolina & Co. BarbecueBoth are celebrated for their exceptional barbecue dishes and casual, friendly atmosphere.
Hodad'sSonoma BurgerProvides a similarly iconic burger experience focusing on flavorful, creative combinations.
Las Cuatro MilpasEl Coqui Puerto Rican CuisineSimilarly cherished for its authentic, comforting dishes and a home-like atmosphere.
Cucina UrbanaRiviera RestaurantBoth are loved for their modern Italian dishes in a trendy, yet comfortable environment.
Craft & CommerceJack and Tony'sBoth bars boast a great selection of craft cocktails and whiskeys, accompanied by a robust menu.
Café 21Dierk's Parkside CaféBoth offer innovative, locally sourced breakfast and lunch options in a cozy setting.
PuestoGerard's PaellaAlthough specializing in Paella, Gerard's shares Puesto's commitment to fresh, vibrant flavors in Spanish cuisine.
The Marine RoomLoCoco's Cucina RusticaWhile Italian, LoCoco's provides a fine dining experience with exquisite dishes and an intimate atmosphere akin to The Marine Room's elegance.
Kettner ExchangeWilli's Wine BarKnown for its innovative American cuisine and extensive wine list, echoing the experimental spirit of Kettner Exchange.

Exploring the dining scene in a new city is an adventure in itself. In Santa Rosa, Stark's Steak & Seafood mirrors Juniper & Ivy's commitment to quality and creativity, making it a must-visit for anyone missing the upscale ambiance of San Diego's dining scene. For barbecue enthusiasts, Carolina & Co. Barbecue offers a taste of home with its smoked meats and soulful sides, reminiscent of Phil's BBQ's beloved flavors. And when in need of comfort food with a gourmet twist, Dierk's Parkside Café and Willi's Wine Bar stand out in Santa Rosa, offering culinary delights that echo the innovation and charm of Café 21 and Kettner Exchange, respectively. Whether you're craving authentic Italian, artisan cocktails, or a simply unforgettable burger, Santa Rosa's vibrant food scene offers something to satisfy every palate, making the transition from San Diego feel like you've never left home.

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Ready to start your move?

San Diego vs. Santa Rosa Real Estate & Living Facts

Real estate is a crucial factor when considering a move. Understanding how San Diego and Santa Rosa compare in terms of housing can help you make an informed decision. From costs to architecture and lifestyle, this comparison aims to give you a clearer picture.

San Diego
Santa Rosa
Typical Architecture Style
Spanish Colonial, Modern
Craftsman, Ranch
Walkability
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Bikeability
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🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle
🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing
Ocean view, Access to amenities
Vineyard proximity, Quiet neighborhoods

When delving deeper into the housing comparison between San Diego and Santa Rosa, several key differences emerge. San Diego commands a higher median home price and monthly rent, which is reflective of its coastal location and high-demand urban environment. The city's architecture boldly embraces Spanish Colonial and modern designs, catering to those who appreciate a mix of history and contemporary living. In contrast, Santa Rosa offers a more laid-back feel with its preference for Craftsman and Ranch-style homes, possibly at a more affordable price point. Proximity to vineyards and the emphasis on quiet neighborhoods in Santa Rosa real estate listings underline the contrasting lifestyle to San Diego's vibrant urban setting. Yet, it's not just about the buildings; walkability and bikeability scores slightly favor San Diego, indicating a slightly more active and accessible lifestyle.

Pet-friendly neighborhoods background image

Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Santa Rosa, CA

1. Rincon Valley : You'll love the ample green spaces and parks for your pets to play and roam freely.

2. Bennett Valley : This neighborhood offers a welcoming community environment along with numerous pet-friendly trails and open spaces for outdoor activities.

3. West End : With its accessible pet-friendly amenities and vibrant community, you'll find it easy to meet other pet owners and their furry friends.

San Diego vs. Santa Rosa Weather Considerations

When planning a move from one city to another, it's crucial to understand how your daily life will be impacted by the weather. In this comparison, we aim to provide a clear perspective on how the weather conditions between San Diego and Santa Rosa will affect you. This information is vital for preparing you for the new climatic experiences awaiting in your new home.

San Diego
Santa Rosa
Days of Sunshine per Year
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☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
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 / 64°F
82°F / 51°F
Winter icon

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

66°F / 49°F
60°F / 39°F


Rainfall icon

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

10.4
36.8
Snowfall icon

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

0
0


San Diego boasts a mild Mediterranean climate with warm, dry summers and mild winters, while Santa Rosa experiences slightly hotter summers but cooler winters due to its Northern California location. Expect more rainy days in Santa Rosa, with an annual rainfall significantly higher than San Diego's. The humidity in Santa Rosa is also higher, potentially influencing your daily comfort. Both cities share common natural disaster risks but differ in air quality; San Diego has cleaner air compared to the moderate levels in Santa Rosa, which could affect respiratory health or allergies. Adjusting to these differences will be an important part of your transition.

Ready to start your move?

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

If you're moving from San Diego, CA to Santa Rosa, CA, it's crucial to grasp how the financial aspects and cost of living will shift. This comparison guides you through the essentials of money-related topics to consider, providing a clearer picture of what to expect.

San Diego
Santa Rosa
Avg. Household Income
$93,042
$86,459
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
Defense, Tourism, International Trade
Wine, Health Services, Manufacturing
Affluence
Moderately Affluent
Modestly Comfortable
Poverty
Middle Range
Middle Range
Homelessness
Significant
Moderate

While both San Diego and Santa Rosa enjoy comparable state income taxes, the average household income and cost of living present a notable difference. San Diego's considerably higher average household income aligns with its elevated cost of living index. However, it's worth noting the diversity in top industries between the two cities—San Diego's economy leverages defense, tourism, and international trade whereas Santa Rosa's is buoyed by its renowned wine industry, health services, and manufacturing. Understanding these economic landscapes can be quite beneficial for setting realistic expectations regarding employment opportunities and lifestyle adjustments.

San Diego vs. Santa Rosa Political & Religious Comparison

In preparing for your move from San Diego to Santa Rosa, understanding the local climate—politically and religiously—can help you adjust more seamlessly. This guide provides a comparison of the politics and religious makeup between San Diego & Santa Rosa, offering you a snapshot of what to expect in both cities.

San Diego
Santa Rosa
Political Make-up
Lean Democratic
Strongly Democratic
Local Politics
Moderate, with diverse representation
Progressive, environmentally focused
Religion
Varied, with significant Christian and Jewish communities
Less religiously diverse, with a focus on spirituality and environmentalism

Both San Diego and Santa Rosa embrace Democratic values, but you'll notice that Santa Rosa takes this to a higher degree with strongly progressive and environmentally focused local politics. While San Diego offers a broad and diverse religious landscape, Santa Rosa leans more towards spirituality, particularly with a greater emphasis on environmental stewardship as part of its core beliefs. This shift towards environmentalism is not just a political posture but also deeply embedded in the community's ethos and daily practices.

San Diego vs. Santa Rosa Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

Moving from San Diego, CA to Santa Rosa, CA brings about notable changes, particularly in your daily commute. This comparison aims to highlight the differences in traffic and transportation options between San Diego & Santa Rosa, helping you better understand what to expect on your daily routes. Whether you're driving or using public transport, knowing these differences is key to a smoother transition.

San Diego
Santa Rosa
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)
25
22
Traffic Congestion
7 out of 10
4 out of 10
Availability of Public Transit
6 out of 10
5 out of 10
Can you get by without car?
Possibly, with planning
Challenging

In San Diego, the average commute time is slightly longer than in Santa Rosa, potentially due to the city's larger size and denser population. The higher traffic congestion score in San Diego reflects this, indicating more frequent delays compared to Santa Rosa. Public transportation in San Diego, marked moderately available, offers various options like buses and trolleys, thanks to the San Diego Metropolitan Transit System. In contrast, Santa Rosa's public transit, primarily served by Santa Rosa CityBus, scores slightly lower, hinting at fewer options or coverage areas. While living in San Diego without a car is feasible with careful planning, especially in more urban areas, Santa Rosa presents more of a challenge to residents due to its less comprehensive public transit system and a layout that is less conducive to walking.

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