Best Santa Rosa to San Diego Movers + Moving Guide
Want help with the heavy lifting?
Trusted. Licensed. Insured.
If you're moving from Santa Rosa to San Diego 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 Santa Rosa 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 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 Santa Rosa 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.
Best Santa Rosa to San Diego Moving Companies
| Rank | Company | Score  | Affordability Index |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Quantum Moving | 9.71 | 9.78 |
| 2 | Little Guy Big Truck Moving | 9.70 | 9.81 |
| 3 | Fresh Start Movers | 9.67 | 9.44 |
| 4 | OCD Moving Services LLC | 9.66 | 9.47 |
| 5 | 1st Choice Movers | 9.63 | 9.7 |
(800) 787-5428How Much Does it Cost to Move from Santa Rosa to San Diego?
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 549 miles from Santa Rosa, CA to San Diego, CA will cost on average $2,248 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Santa Rosa to San Diego 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 Size | Moving Cost | Volume of Packed Items (ft³) | $/ft³ |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio | $1,514 | 300 ft³ | $5.05 |
| 1 Bedroom | $2,248 | 450 ft³ | $5.00 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $3,709 | 750 ft³ | $4.95 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $5,385 | 1100 ft³ | $4.90 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $7,753 | 1600 ft³ | $4.85 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $8,632 | 1800 ft³ | $4.80 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from San Diego to Santa Rosa guide.
Compare the 5 Best Santa Rosa to San Diego Movers
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
Quantum Moving
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
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3163557 / - Not Authorized Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 3 |
| Registered Drivers | 5 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 35,000 (2022) |
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
Fresh Start Movers
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
OCD Moving Services LLC
5914 Cobblestone Ct
El Sobrante, CA, 94803
About OCD Moving Services LLC
For over five years, OCD Moving Services LLC has been providing Oakland and the Bay Area with residential and commercial relocation...
Services
- Local Moving
- Long Distance Moving
- Commercial Moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2597230 / 911812 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 6 |
| Registered Drivers | 6 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 153,000 (2022) |
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) |
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.
Santa Rosa vs. San Diego Neighborhood Comparison
Moving from one city to another can feel like navigating uncharted territory. To ease this transition, we've created a guide to help you familiarize yourself with your new surroundings by comparing Santa Rosa, CA & San Diego, CA local neighborhoods . This way, you can find a new home that resonates with the vibe and community you've grown to love.
| Santa Rosa | San Diego | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Montgomery Village | Hillcrest | Vibrant shopping and dining |
| Rincon Valley | Scripps Ranch | Family-friendly with great schools |
| Bennett Valley | Del Mar | Scenic views, upscale living |
| Railroad Square | Gaslamp Quarter | Historic area with nightlife |
| Annadel State Park Area | Balboa Park | parks and cultural institutions |
| Santa Rosa Downtown | Little Italy | Bustling with cafes and festivals |
| Fountaingrove | La Jolla | Exclusive, ocean views |
| West End | Ocean Beach | Laid back, beach community |
| Aston Avenue | North Park | Hipster vibe, craft beer scene |
| Coffey Park | Poway | Safe, suburban feel with parks |
Exploring these neighborhoods further, you'll discover unique attractions and local favorites that give each area its charm. For instance, if you love the laid-back, community atmosphere of Montgomery Village, you'll feel right at home in Hillcrest, known for its diverse shopping, dining, and yearly Pride parade. Should the scenic beauty and outdoor activities of the Annadel State Park Area appeal to you, Balboa Park's vast expanse of museums, gardens, and trails will sure to captivate your interest. Likewise, for those drawn to the historical elements of Railroad Square, the Gaslamp Quarter offers a similar mix of heritage buildings amidst a lively entertainment scene. Each San Diego neighborhood mirrors a special aspect of Santa Rosa life, promising a smooth transition filled with new discoveries.
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 Rosa to San Diego
Moving from Santa Rosa, CA to San Diego, CA involves weighing both the benefits and drawbacks to ensure a well-informed decision. By comparing the cons of leaving Santa Rosa against the pros of settling in San Diego, and vice versa, this guide aims to present an honest reflection of the good and bad attributes of this relocation. The following charts help illustrate the trade-offs involved in the move.
Santa Rosa, CA- Higher living costs
- Smaller city vibe
- Less diverse dining
- Cooler oceans
- Fewer job opportunities
San Diego, CA- More affordable living
- Vibrant city life
- Wider food variety
- Warmer beaches
- Greater employment prospects
San Diego, CA- Busier streets
- More impersonal
- Less wine-focused
- Fewer parks
- Heavier traffic
Santa Rosa, CA- Quieter neighborhoods
- Closer community
- Rich wine culture
- Vast green spaces
- Less traffic
Moving to San Diego introduces you to its vibrant city life filled with diverse dining options, such as the renowned Lolita’s Mexican Food and the oceanfront dining experience at George’s at the Cove. While you might miss Santa Rosa’s quieter neighborhoods and rich wine culture, highlighted by landmarks like Kunde Family Winery, San Diego counters with an array of beachfront activities at places like La Jolla Shores and the historic charm of the Gaslamp Quarter. Despite the hustle and bustle, neighborhoods like North Park manage to maintain a close-knit community vibe with local parks, such as Balboa Park, offering vast green spaces amidst the urban environment, ensuring you still find pockets of tranquility amidst the city’s lively pace.
Santa Rosa vs. San Diego Food Guide
Understanding the flavors and culinary culture of a new city is vital when relocating. This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Santa Rosa & San Diego , giving you a taste of what to expect food-wise in your new home, thus enhancing your moving experience.
- Stark's Steak & Seafood
- The Tipsy Boar
- John Ash & Co.
- George's at the Cove
- Las Brisas
- Phil's BBQ
In Santa Rosa, you’ll delight in the Wine Country cuisine that showcases local produce and wines, epitomized by restaurants like John Ash & Co. On the other hand, San Diego’s culinary scene is renowned for its Mexican-inspired dishes, especially fish tacos, available in numerous seaside eateries such as George’s at the Cove. The vibrant street food culture in San Diego, with an abundance of food trucks and health-conscious options, reflects the city’s laid-back yet diverse culinary ethos. Whether you’re enjoying artisanal sausages in Santa Rosa or savoring a California burrito in San Diego, each city offers a unique taste of local flavors and dining experiences.
Santa Rosa vs. San Diego Restaurant Comparison
When moving from one city to another, settling into your new surroundings is key, and discovering great places to eat plays a big part in that transition. This comparison will help you find your new favorite eateries in San Diego by drawing parallels with those you already love in Santa Rosa, making this culinary journey a pivotal aspect of feeling at home .
| Santa Rosa | San Diego | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Stark's Steak & Seafood | Born & Raised | Sophisticated steakhouse experience |
| Willi's Wine Bar | Wine Vault & Bistro | Intimate wine dining experience |
| Rosso Pizzeria & Wine Bar | Buona Forchetta | Authentic and cozy Italian atmosphere |
| Dierk's Parkside Cafe | Great Maple | Modern American comfort food |
| Sazon Peruvian Cuisine | Ceviche House | Fresh and flavorful Peruvian-inspired dishes |
| LoCoco's Cucina Rustica | Bencotto Italian Kitchen | Customizable authentic pasta dishes |
| Taqueria Molcajetes | Las Cuatro Milpas | Homestyle Mexican cuisine |
| Mac’s Deli & Cafe | Board & Brew | Unique sandwiches and casual vibe |
| Abyssinia Restaurant | Muzita Abyssinian Bistro | Traditional Ethiopian dining experience |
| Screamin' Mimi's | An's Dry Cleaning | Creative and artisanal gelato |
Exploring food similarities between Santa Rosa and San Diego reveals a rich tapestry of culinary excellence designed to fulfill any food lover's dream. For instance, if you're a fan of Stark's Steak & Seafood for its high-quality steaks and sophisticated dining experience, Born & Raised in San Diego mirrors this ambiance with its art deco style and commitment to exceptional cuts of meat. For those looking for a more casual but equally memorable experience, Santa Rosa's Mac’s Deli & Cafe offers a heartwarming variety of sandwiches, a tradition that continues at Board & Brew in San Diego with unique recipes and a laid-back atmosphere. Each restaurant pairing celebrates the diversity and cultural richness of both Santa Rosa and San Diego, ensuring that no matter where you are, a taste of home or a new adventure is never far away.
Ready to start your move?
Santa Rosa vs. San Diego Real Estate & Living Facts
Real estate is one of the most important aspects of a move. Knowing how the housing markets of Santa Rosa and San Diego compare can greatly impact your decision-making process. This guide explores cost, architecture, walkability, and more to help you understand the key differences in real estate between these two cities.
While both cities offer attractive lifestyles, San Diego edges out with its higher urban lifestyle score, influenced by its vibrant nightlife and diverse cultural scene. For those drawn to the ocean, San Diego's beach access and views can be a major pull. Conversely, Santa Rosa's appeal lies in its spacious properties and close proximity to wine country, perfect for those who prefer a quieter, more spread-out living environment. Despite the higher costs in San Diego, its modern Spanish Revival architecture and emphasis on bikeability and walkability make it an attractive option for individuals looking for a dynamic urban experience.
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 Rosa vs. San Diego Weather Considerations
When planning a move from one location to another, it's crucial to consider how the climate might change. This comparison focuses on the weather differences between Santa Rosa and San Diego to help you adjust to your new environment smoothly.
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Moving from Santa Rosa to San Diego, you’ll notice a slight uptick in sunshine days and a substantial decrease in annual rainfall, reflecting San Diego's drier climate. Despite their geographical proximity, the average winter temperatures are milder in San Diego, offering a more comfortable year-round climate. Also, the average UV index in San Diego is higher, signifying more intense sun exposure. Understanding these differences will help you adapt to San Diego's weather smoothly, whether you're planning your wardrobe or outdoor activities.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Santa Rosa to San Diego
When contemplating a move from one city to another, understanding the financial implications is crucial. This comparison aims to aid in that process by evaluating key money and finance metrics between Santa Rosa and San Diego . It's an essential tool for gauging how your cost of living and income prospects may shift.
Moving from Santa Rosa to San Diego, you'll notice a rise in both the cost of living and average household income, indicating a nuanced financial landscape. Despite the higher income in San Diego, the city's increased cost of living and particularly its higher housing costs may offset some of those gains. However, San Diego's broader mix of industries may offer more diverse job opportunities, especially in sectors like defense and tourism. Both cities share California's state income tax rate, but differences in sales tax reveal slightly lower consumer costs in San Diego. Understanding these contrasts will support your financial planning for a smoother transition.
Santa Rosa vs. San Diego Political & Religious Comparison
When moving from Santa Rosa, CA, to San Diego, CA, it's beneficial to understand not just the climate or job prospects but the communities you'll be joining. This comparison of the politics between Santa Rosa & San Diego offers a quick glimpse into the political and religious makeup of each city's residents, helping you anticipate the cultural landscape you're moving into.
While both Santa Rosa and San Diego lean Democratic, the scale and intensity of local politics can vary. Santa Rosa, with its smaller population, might experience politics on a more personal level, where community and progressive social policies are at the forefront. On the other hand, San Diego, being a large and diverse city, showcases a broader spectrum of political views, from moderate to progressive. The religious makeup in both cities is similar, with Christianity being the dominant religion, followed by a significant portion of the population identifying as non-affiliated. This reflects a trend of diversity and tolerance towards different beliefs and lifestyles, which might make your transition smoother, regardless of your own beliefs.
Santa Rosa vs. San Diego Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Before you make the move from Santa Rosa to San Diego, it's crucial to understand the distinctions in daily commutes and traffic patterns. This comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Santa Rosa & San Diego aims to help you navigate your new surroundings smoothly.
In comparing Santa Rosa and San Diego, although the average commute time is slightly longer in Santa Rosa, San Diego experiences higher levels of traffic congestion. This is primarily due to San Diego's larger population and denser urban areas. However, San Diego compensates with better public transit options, making it more feasible to get around without a car. Santa Rosa offers a decent public transit system too, but you might find yourself planning your routes more meticulously if you choose to go carless. Each city presents unique challenges and benefits when it comes to transportation, thereby affecting how you might decide to commute daily.
Additional Resources
Santa Rosa Moving Services
Popular Santa Rosa to California Routes
Popular Moving Resources
