Best Santa Clarita to San Diego Movers + Moving Guide

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If you're moving from Santa Clarita to San Diego and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 152 mile long distance California move go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 134 Santa Clarita to San Diego 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 Santa Clarita compared to San Diego. 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 Santa Clarita to San Diego Moving Companies

Phone (800) 787-5428

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

Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 152 miles from Santa Clarita, CA to San Diego, CA will cost on average $1,910 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Santa Clarita to San Diego move is roughly $4,560. 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$1,910450 ft³$4.25
2 Bedrooms$3,147750 ft³$4.20
3 Bedrooms$4,5601100 ft³$4.15
4 Bedrooms$6,5531600 ft³$4.10
5+ Bedrooms$7,2821800 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 San Diego to Santa Clarita guide.

Compare the 5 Best Santa Clarita to San Diego 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
Ready-To-Go Movers Logo

Ready-To-Go Movers

Exceptional9.58/10
based on 1,637+ data points

400 Autumnwood st

Thousand Oaks, CA, 91360

About Ready-To-Go Movers

Ready-To-Go Movers, in business since 2014, is a fully licensed and insured professional moving company based in Thousand Oaks, California. They...

Services

  • Residential moving
  • Office/commercial moving
  • Disassembly and assembly services

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2777901 / -

Not Authorized

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans2
Registered Drivers2
Total Annual Miles Moved40,000 (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.

Santa Clarita vs. San Diego Neighborhood Comparison

When moving from one city to another, getting to know your new surroundings can be a challenge. By comparing Santa Clarita, CA & San Diego, CA neighborhoods , we aim to help you familiarize yourself with San Diego by using what you know about Santa Clarita as a baseline. Discover the most similar neighborhoods in San Diego that resonate with the essence of your old community.

Santa ClaritaSan DiegoHow They're Similar
ValenciaCarmel ValleyFamily-friendly, suburban feel
SaugusMira MesaDiverse community, excellent schools
Canyon CountryTierrasantaQuiet, suburban with natural landscapes
NewhallNorth ParkHistoric, with a vibrant arts scene
Stevenson RanchScripps RanchUpscale, with plenty of green spaces
WestridgeTorrey HighlandsUpscale, excellent amenities and schools
CastaicRancho BernardoFamily-oriented, outdoor activities
Fair Oaks RanchDel SurPlanned community, eco-friendly with parks
Sunset HeightsUniversity CityDiverse, with a mix of residential and commercial
Tesoro Del Valle4S RanchFamily-friendly, with a strong community vibe

In moving from Santa Clarita to San Diego, you'll find neighborhoods with unique charms while still echoing the familiar vibes of your old home. For instance, Stevenson Ranch’s upscale living and green spaces closely mirror that in Scripps Ranch, where families can also immerse themselves in a community focused on outdoor living and community events. North Park, similar to Newhall, offers a deep appreciation for historic landmarks and a lively arts scene, including venues like The Observatory for live music and Ray at Night for local art walks. For those who prioritize education and community diversity, Mira Mesa mirrors Saugus with its wide range of schools and community events like the Mira Mesa Street Fair. This comparison aims not just to ease your transition but to excite you about the new experiences and communities awaiting in San Diego.

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Things to Do in San Diego

  • Visit the San Diego Zoo
  • Tour the USS Midway Museum
  • Explore Balboa Park
  • Relax at Coronado Beach
  • Dine in Little Italy
  • Experience SeaWorld San Diego
  • Play golf at Torrey Pines

Ready to start your move?

Pros and Cons of Moving from Santa Clarita to San Diego

Moving across cities brings its own set of challenges and opportunities. This guide aims to provide an honest reflection of what it means to transition from Santa Clarita, CA to San Diego, CA, meticulously balancing the cons with the pros. By comparing Santa Clarita’s constraints to San Diego’s advantages, and vice versa, these charts aspire to illuminate the pivotal aspects of making such a move. Let’s delve into a comprehensive analysis designed to aid in your decision-making process.

CONs
PROs
Santa Clarita, CA iconSanta Clarita, CA
  • Higher commute times
  • Less cultural venues
  • Smaller tech hub
  • Warmer summers
San Diego, CA iconSan Diego, CA
  • Vibrant nightlife
  • Beach access
  • Larger job market
  • Milder climate
San Diego, CA iconSan Diego, CA
  • Higher housing costs
  • More expensive dining
  • Crowded beaches
  • Less green space
Santa Clarita, CA iconSanta Clarita, CA
  • Family-friendly suburbs
  • Lower cost of living
  • Quieter neighborhoods
  • Ample natural parks

When moving from Santa Clarita to San Diego, you're not just changing your address; you're stepping into a city pulsing with cultural vibrancy and myriad opportunities. San Diego’s renowned San Diego Zoo, situated in the expansive Balboa Park, offers a unique blend of natural beauty and conservation efforts. The city's beaches, from the family-friendly shores of La Jolla to the lively scenes of Pacific Beach, present an unparalleled coastal experience. Dining in San Diego goes beyond the plate, with farm-to-table restaurants like Juniper and Ivy offering innovative dishes that highlight local ingredients. While the transition may come with its challenges, such as adapting to higher living expenses, the move is an investment in a lifestyle enriched with diverse experiences, from engaging in outdoor activities to exploring the heart of San Diego’s culinary and cultural scenes.

Santa Clarita vs. San Diego Food Guide

This comparison of the local cuisine between Santa Clarita & San Diego illuminates an essential aspect of local culture vital to understand for anyone planning to relocate. Food is at the heart of what it means to live in a place, and through this comparison, you can grasp a better picture of the culinary landscape awaiting in your new home.

Santa Clarita
San Diego
Most iconic local food item
Tacos
Fish Tacos
Most popular meat dish
Tri-tip
Carne Asada
Most popular street food item
Food Truck Burgers
Baja-style Fish Tacos
Most popular vegan food
Avocado Toast
Jackfruit Tacos
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
  • Salt Creek Grille
  • Newhall Refinery
  • Egg Plantation
  • George's at the Cove
  • Las Cuatro Milpas
  • Phil's BBQ
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 Baja-style fish tacos stand out as a must-try local delicacy, reflecting the city's close ties to the ocean and a preference for fresh, vibrant flavors. You can find some of the best examples in neighborhoods like Pacific Beach and Little Italy. Vegan options such as jackfruit tacos showcase San Diego's innovative food scene and are widely available in restaurants like Kindred and Trilogy Sanctuary. Furthermore, San Diego's high rating for fitness and health conscientiousness is mirrored in its dining options, with plenty of restaurants offering fresh, local produce and health-oriented menus.

Santa Clarita vs. San Diego Restaurant Comparison

Finding a new favorite dining spot can be the key to feeling at home in a new city. To ease the transition from Santa Clarita to San Diego, we've compared top restaurants from both places. This guide will help you discover your next go-to eatery in San Diego by drawing parallels with Santa Clarita eateries to find comparable San Diego spots. Whether it's high-end dining, casual settings, or unique flavors you're after, this comparison has got you covered.

Santa ClaritaSan DiegoWhat You'll Love
Le Chène French CuisineBo-beau kitchen + gardenCozy French bistro vibes and a robust menu
Marston's RestaurantGreat MapleKnown for modern American comfort food with a twist
Newhall RefineryCraft & CommerceElevated gastropub fare with a focus on craft beer
Salt Creek GrilleIsland PrimeWaterfront dining offering high-quality steaks and seafood
Wood Ranch BBQ & GrillPhil's BBQA popular spot for high-quality barbecue and sides
Piccola TrattoriaBencotto Italian KitchenOffers an authentic Italian dining experience
Egg PlantationThe Cottage La JollaBreakfast & brunch spot with a sunny patio
Larsen's SteakhouseFleming's Prime SteakhouseRenowned for its prime steak and wine selection
Rattler's Bar B QueGrand Ole BBQAuthentic Texan-style barbecue in a laid-back setting
Drifters CocktailsPolite ProvisionsCocktail bar with a vast selection of innovative drinks

Transitioning your palate from Santa Clarita to San Diego can be an exciting culinary adventure. For instance, if you're a fan of the refined French cuisine at Le Chène, you'll find Bo-beau kitchen + garden in San Diego offers a similar cozy bistro atmosphere with meticulous dishes that transport your senses to France. Similarly, barbecue enthusiasts who relish the smoky flavors at Rattler's Bar B Que will appreciate the authentic Texan-style barbecue served up at Grand Ole BBQ in San Diego. It's not just about finding a meal; it's about discovering places that resonate with the same character and quality you've grown to love, ensuring your move feels a little more like coming home.

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Ready to start your move?

Santa Clarita vs. San Diego Real Estate & Living Facts

Real estate is a pivotal factor when planning a move. Understanding how Santa Clarita and San Diego compare in terms of housing costs, architecture, and lifestyle can greatly influence your decision. This comparison aims to shed light on the essential aspects of real estate between these two cities.

Santa Clarita
San Diego
Typical Architecture Style
Suburban, Modern
Spanish, Modern
Walkability
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Bikeability
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Urban Lifestyle
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Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing
Family-friendly, Quiet neighborhoods
Beach access, Vibrant nightlife

When comparing housing between Santa Clarita and San Diego, several key aspects emerge. Santa Clarita, with its more affordable median home price and rent, appeals to those seeking a suburban lifestyle, highlighted by its family-friendly and quiet neighborhoods. On the other hand, San Diego, despite being pricier, offers a more urban experience with its higher walkability and bikeability scores, making it ideal for those who love the outdoors and an active lifestyle. The architecture in San Diego frequently incorporates Spanish elements, reflecting its historical roots, contrasting with the modern and suburban architectural styles prevalent in Santa Clarita. The popular real estate listings in San Diego often boast about beach access and a vibrant nightlife, catering to a different demographic than Santa Clarita.

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Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in San Diego, CA

1. Ocean Beach : You'll love the dog-friendly atmosphere with a dedicated dog beach where your furry friend can splash and play off-leash.

2. North Park : This hip neighborhood offers many pet-welcoming cafes and parks, making it easy for you to enjoy outings with your pets.

3. Hillcrest : Known for its inclusive culture, you'll find numerous pet-friendly restaurants and bars, along with a welcoming community for your pets.

Santa Clarita vs. San Diego Weather Considerations

Moving from one city to another means adapting to new weather conditions. Understanding how the climate shifts from Santa Clarita to San Diego can significantly impact your daily life and seasonal activities. This comparison aims to highlight the differences in weather you can expect after your move.

Santa Clarita
San Diego
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
Moderate
Good
Summer icon

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

95°F / 60°F
77°F / 64°F
Winter icon

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

68°F / 42°F
66°F / 50°F


Rainfall icon

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

19
10
Snowfall icon

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

0
0


While Santa Clarita and San Diego share similar UV index levels and natural disaster risks, the differences in temperature, humidity, and air quality stand out. For instance, Santa Clarita experiences hotter summers with lower humidity compared to San Diego's milder and slightly more humid conditions. Moving to San Diego may also mean enjoying better air quality. Moreover, the lesser amount of annual rainfall in San Diego reflects its milder overall climate, an aspect that might appeal to those seeking less precipitation.

Ready to start your move?

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

When planning a move from one city to another, particularly from Santa Clarita to San Diego, it's crucial to understand how the financial landscape will change. This comparison digs into aspects such as average income, the cost of living, and more, to give you a clear picture of what to expect money-wise in your new locale.

Santa Clarita
San Diego
Avg. Household Income
$109,336
$93,042
Cost of Living Index
136.4
132.3
State Income Tax
13.3
13.3
Avg. Property Tax
0.72
0.76
Avg. Sales Tax
9.5
7.75
Top 3 Industries
Entertainment, Manufacturing, Healthcare
Defense/Military, Tourism, International Trade
Affluence
Moderately affluent
Varied
Poverty
Lower
Higher
Homelessness
Low
Significant

Moving from Santa Clarita to San Diego, you'll notice significant differences financially. While the average household income in Santa Clarita is notably higher, San Diego's cost of living index surpasses that of Santa Clarita, hinting at potentially higher expenses despite lower average incomes. However, factors such as the major industries in San Diego - with its emphasis on Defense/Military, Tourism, and International Trade - may offer unique employment opportunities not available in Santa Clarita. It's also worth noting the cooperative state income tax rate despite the variations in other financial aspects such as sales and property taxes, suggesting some uniformity in state-level financial policies. These differences underscore the importance of financial planning when transitioning between these two cities.

Santa Clarita vs. San Diego Political & Religious Comparison

This guide presents a brief comparison to give you a quick glance at the political and religious landscape you're moving into. By understanding the comparison of the politics between Santa Clarita & San Diego and religious inclinations of the residents, you can gain insights into the community vibes of your new home.

Santa Clarita
San Diego
Political Make-up
Moderately conservative
Liberal
Local Politics
City council nonpartisan, leans conservative
City council nonpartisan, leans liberal
Religion
Christian majority with diverse religious communities
Christian majority with significant representation of other faiths

When moving from Santa Clarita to San Diego, you'll transition from a moderately conservative area to a more liberal environment. This change is reflected not only in the overall political makeup but also in local governance. While both cities have nonpartisan city councils, Santa Clarita's council tends to lean more conservative compared to San Diego's liberal-leaning council. Alongside this political backdrop, both cities boast a Christian majority while embracing a myriad of other religious practices. In San Diego, however, you might notice a broader diversity in religious representation, enriching the cultural fabric of the city.

Santa Clarita vs. San Diego Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

Understanding the differences in driving and transiting between Santa Clarita & San Diego can significantly impact your daily life, especially when it comes to planning your commute and navigating traffic. This comparison aims to provide insight into what you can expect regarding average commute times, traffic congestion, public transit availability, and the feasibility of living without a car in these two cities.

Santa Clarita
San Diego
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)
30
25
Traffic Congestion
6 out of 10
7 out of 10
Availability of Public Transit
5 out of 10
8 out of 10
Can you get by without car?
No
Yes

While Santa Clarita offers a more relaxed atmosphere with lower traffic congestion, its public transit system might not meet the needs of everyone, making a car almost a necessity. In contrast, San Diego boasts a higher score in public transit availability, offering a variety of options like the San Diego Trolley, buses, and ride-share services, which makes it more feasible to live without a car. However, it's worth noting that despite the higher traffic congestion in San Diego, the average commute time is slightly less than in Santa Clarita, likely due to the efficient layout of the city and better traffic management. Whether you prioritize a quick commute, low traffic, or accessible public transit, understanding these factors will help you adjust to your new city.

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