Best Austin to San Diego Movers + Moving Guide
Want help with the heavy lifting?
If you're moving from Austin to San Diego and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 1,301 mile move from Texas to California go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 32 Austin 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 The Rock Movers), how much the move costs (approximately $2,000 - $7,000 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Austin 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 Austin to San Diego Moving Companies
Rank | Company | Affordability Index | License | |
---|---|---|---|---|
1 | The Rock Movers | 9.50 | 9.53 | Authorized For HHG |
2 | Coast 2 Coast Moving, Inc. | 9.48 | 9.62 | Authorized For HHG |
3 | MoverTron Moving | 9.46 | 9.52 | Authorized For HHG |
4 | Heavenly Moving and Storage | 9.29 | 9.38 | Authorized For HHG |
5 | Amen Moving | 9.23 | 9.52 | Authorized For HHG |
How Much Does it Cost to Move from Austin to San Diego?
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 1,301 miles from Austin, TX to San Diego, CA will cost on average $2,888 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Austin to San Diego move is roughly $6,949. 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 | $1,940 | 300 ft³ | $6.47 |
1 Bedroom | $2,888 | 450 ft³ | $6.42 |
2 Bedrooms | $4,775 | 750 ft³ | $6.37 |
3 Bedrooms | $6,949 | 1100 ft³ | $6.32 |
4 Bedrooms | $10,027 | 1600 ft³ | $6.27 |
5+ Bedrooms | $11,190 | 1800 ft³ | $6.22 |


Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from San Diego to Austin guide.
Compare the 5 Best Austin to San Diego Movers
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)

The Rock Movers
7087 Camino Revueltos UNIT 306
San Diego, CA, 92111
About The Rock Movers
The Rock Movers is a San Diego County-based moving company offering professional and affordable moving services for local and long-distance relocations....
Services
- Local Residential
- Furniture Moving
- Full Packing Service
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3653432 / 1541470 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
Registered Trucks/Vans | 4 |
Registered Drivers | 7 |
Total Annual Miles Moved | 40,000 (2023) |

Coast 2 Coast Moving, Inc.
2020 Camino De La Reina
San Diego, CA, 92108
About Coast 2 Coast Moving, Inc.
Coast 2 Coast Moving, Inc. is a professional moving company based in San Diego, California. Founded by Donal and Jessica O'Neill,...
Services
- Local Moves
- Long-Distance Moves
- Packing Services
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3177184 / 1157114 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
Registered Trucks/Vans | 3 |
Registered Drivers | 7 |
Total Annual Miles Moved | 200,000 (2024) |

MoverTron Moving
Briarcliff, TX, 78669
Services
- Local Moving
- Residential Moving
- Long-Distance Moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 4135479 / 1584479 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
Registered Trucks/Vans | 2 |
Registered Drivers | 2 |
Total Annual Miles Moved | - |

Heavenly Moving and Storage

9311 N Fm 620
Austin, TX, 78726
About Heavenly Moving and Storage
Heavenly Moving and Storage has been one of Austin’s premier moving companies since 2005. This locally-owned moving company provides high-quality packing...
Services
- Local moving
- Long-distance moving
- Full-service packing
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3429695 / 1110864 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
Registered Trucks/Vans | 12 |
Registered Drivers | 10 |
Total Annual Miles Moved | 250,000 (2021) |
Amen Moving
Volente, TX, 78726
About Amen Moving
Amen Moving is a professional moving company based in Austin, TX. The company specializes in out of state moving and packing...
Services
- Out of state moving services
- Packing services
- Office moving services
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3119927 / 87368 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
Registered Trucks/Vans | 1 |
Registered Drivers | 1 |
Total Annual Miles Moved | 220,000 (2024) |

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.
Austin vs. San Diego Neighborhood Comparison
Moving from one city to another can be daunting. To help ease your transition, we're offering a comparison of local neighborhoods between Austin, TX & San Diego, CA , using neighborhoods you might know to introduce you to similar areas in your new city.
Austin | San Diego | How They're Similar |
---|---|---|
Zilker | North Park | Trendy vibe with nearby parks |
Downtown | Gaslamp Quarter | Vibrant nightlife and urban living |
South Congress | Little Italy | Eclectic shops and eateries |
East Austin | South Park | Diverse community with artsy feel |
Barton Hills | Hillcrest | Leafy with scenic parks |
Mueller | Liberty Station | Mixed-use development with family focus |
Hyde Park | Kensington | Historic charm and tree-lined streets |
Clarksville | Mission Hills | Historic homes with upscale appeal |
Westlake Hills | La Jolla | Upscale homes with breathtaking views |
The Domain | Fashion Valley | Shopping and entertainment galore |
Explore the vibrant streets of Austin's Zilker neighborhood, known for its proximity to Zilker Park and the annual music festivals. You'll find a similar atmosphere in North Park, San Diego, where craft breweries and cafes line the streets, and you'll be just a stone's throw from Balboa Park. Loving the chic boutiques and bustling vibe of South Congress? Look no further than San Diego's Little Italy, where you can enjoy a blend of artisan shops and alfresco dining. For Austin's historic Hyde Park charm, Kensington offers leafy streets adorned with Craftsman-style homes and intimate community gatherings. If the serene nature of Barton Hills, with its trails and green spaces, speaks to you, then Hillcrest in San Diego will feel like home with its lush parks and relaxed vibe.

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 Austin to San Diego
Moving from one city to another involves weighing various factors to make an informed decision. This comparison aims to provide an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of relocating from Austin, TX to San Diego, CA . By comparing the pros and cons, we hope to offer a nuanced overview that helps you decide whether this move aligns with your desires and needs.
- Hotter summers
- Less beach access
- More affordable housing
- Milder climate
- Beaches galore
- Higher cost of living
- Less live music
- Higher housing costs
- Different vibe
- Vibrant music scene
- Lower cost of living
- Unique Texan culture
In depth, San Diego's milder climate means outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy activities year-round. Notable spots like Mission Bay Park and San Diego Zoo offer ample opportunities for adventure and family fun, contrasting with Austin's hotter summers that can limit outdoor activities. While Austin is renowned for its live music scene, embodied in venues like the ACL Live at the Moody Theater, San Diego presents a diverse arts culture, with institutions such as the San Diego Natural History Museum and historic sites like the Cabrillo National Monument. Despite the higher cost of living in San Diego, the scenic beaches and coastal lifestyle offer a unique living experience significantly different from the urban Texan lifestyle found in Austin.
Austin vs. San Diego Food Guide
Understanding the culinary landscape of a new city is vital as food is an essential part of local culture and everyday life. In this guide, we embark on a journey to explore how the food scenes in Austin, TX and San Diego, CA compare. This will equip you with insights into the local cuisine, ensuring you know exactly what delightful flavors await you in your new home.
- Franklin Barbecue
- Uchi
- La Matta
- George's at the Cove
- Phil's BBQ
- Las Brisas
In comparing the local gastronomy of Austin, TX, and San Diego, CA, notable highlights emerge. Austin's love affair with BBQ brisket at places like Franklin Barbecue showcases the city's rich tradition in smoked meats. Meanwhile, San Diego's coastal charm is perfectly captured in its fish tacos, frequently enjoyed at spots like George's at the Cove. San Diego's higher vegan-friendliness score reflects its plethora of health-conscious eateries, with favorites like acai bowls dotting menus across the city. Both cities boast vibrant, distinctive culinary scenes, yet each offers a unique taste that reflects their diverse local cultures and lifestyles.
Austin vs. San Diego Restaurant Comparison
Food is a pivotal part of making an area feel like home. This restaurant comparison between Austin, TX, and San Diego, CA, will guide you in finding your new culinary sanctuaries by leveraging what you already love about your current locale.
Austin | San Diego | What You'll Love |
---|---|---|
Franklin Barbecue | Grand Ole BBQ y Asado | Both famed for their slow-cooked meats and authentic BBQ experience. |
Uchi | Sushi Ota | Expertise in sushi and Japanese cuisine make them comparable culinary gems. |
Home Slice Pizza | Buona Forchetta | Handcrafted pizzas and a vibrant atmosphere mirror the vibe at Home Slice. |
Torchy's Tacos | Puesto | A love for inventive tacos and local ingredients ties these two eateries together. |
Odd Duck | Juniper & Ivy | Innovative and locally sourced dishes make both restaurants standouts. |
Matt's El Rancho | Casa Guadalajara | Iconic Mexican cuisine with a festive ambiance that rivals Matt's El Rancho. |
Barley Swine | Herb & Wood | Both known for their creative dishes and use of fresh, local produce. |
Salt Lick BBQ | Phil's BBQ | A destination for BBQ lovers seeking that perfect smoked flavor. |
Kerbey Lane Cafe | Hash House A Go Go | Famous for comfort food that feels like a hug on a plate. |
Launderette | Café 21 | Unique ambiance with a focus on farm-to-table dishes makes it a close match. |
Upon your relocation, you'll delight in discovering San Diego's restaurant scene, where places like Grand Ole BBQ y Asado and Sushi Ota stand ready to enchant your palate, reminiscent of the Austin favorites Franklin Barbecue and Uchi. Dive into the culinary crafts of Puesto for a taco feast that gives Torchy's Tacos a run for its money, mirroring not just the flavors but the spirit of creativity. San Diego also embraces the farm-to-table movement passionately with Juniper & Ivy, offering an innovative dining experience akin to what you've cherished at Odd Duck. As you explore these establishments, you'll find the heart of each city's gastronomic culture beating in unison, making the transition from Austin to San Diego as seamless and delightful as possible.

Ready to start your move?
Austin vs. San Diego Real Estate & Living Facts
Real estate is paramount when planning a move, and understanding how the housing aspects of Austin, TX, and San Diego, CA compare is crucial. This comparison will highlight costs, architecture, walkability , among other factors, to guide your decision in finding a new home.
Diving deeper into the housing landscape, Austin presents a more affordable housing market compared to San Diego, with median home prices and rent significantly lower. The difference in architecture reflects the cities' cultural influences: Austin's modern farmhouse and mid-century modern styles cater to a blend of traditional and contemporary tastes, while San Diego's Spanish revival pays homage to its historical roots, often boasting ocean views which are highly sought after. Interestingly, while San Diego promotes a more urban lifestyle with its higher walkability and bikeability scores, indicating a dense, pedestrian-friendly environment, both cities showcase a strong preference for outdoor living spaces, a nod to the importance of leisure and entertainment in one's home life.

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.
Austin vs. San Diego Weather Considerations
When deciding to move from one city to another, understanding the climate differences is crucial. This comparison highlights the weather variations between Austin, TX, and San Diego, CA , ensuring you're well-informed about what to expect in your new home.
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Moving from Austin to San Diego, you'll find comfort in more moderate summer temperatures and a significant increase in sunny days. While the average annual humidity is similar in both cities, San Diego's cooler summers and mild winters make for an overall more comfortable climate. Also, consider the different natural disaster risks: Austin's floods and tornadoes versus San Diego's earthquakes and wildfires. This difference highlights the importance of local knowledge and preparedness in your new city. Lastly, San Diego's significantly lower annual rainfall and absence of snow emphasize its mild, dry climate, a stark contrast to Austin's more varied conditions.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Austin to San Diego
When planning a move from one city to another, understanding the cost implications is crucial. This comparison aims to highlight the financial differences between Austin, TX, and San Diego, CA , providing insights into cost of living , taxation , and income . Such information is vital for budgeting and setting realistic expectations for your new life.
Moving from Austin to San Diego, you'll encounter higher living costs, reflected in the Cost of Living Index where San Diego surpasses Austin significantly. However, this increase is also accompanied by higher average household income in San Diego, which partially offsets the higher expenses. It's also important to note the stark difference in state income tax, with Texas offering 0% while California's can be as high as 13.3%, a crucial factor for financial planning. Despite the challenges, both cities host vibrant economies with diverse top industries, promising a rich canvas for employment opportunities. Understanding these nuances will empower you to make informed financial decisions for a smoother transition.
Austin vs. San Diego Political & Religious Comparison
Moving from Austin, TX to San Diego, CA offers an intriguing experience in terms of local culture, politics, and religious landscape. This guide gives a comparison of the politics and religious makeup between Austin & San Diego, offering insights into what you can expect in each city.
In Austin, you may have noticed a strong emphasis on social issues and environmental sustainability, reflecting its progressive political makeup. This forward-thinking attitude translates into the city's efforts towards renewable energy and inclusivity. San Diego, while also liberal, tends to have a more moderate approach, influenced heavily by its military presence and proximity to the U.S.-Mexico border, shaping local political discussions. Religiously, both cities offer diversity, but San Diego has a notably larger Catholic community, attributable to its history and demographic. This contrast offers a fascinating glimpse into how your daily life and interactions may shift in subtle yet significant ways after moving.
Austin vs. San Diego Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Moving from Austin, TX to San Diego, CA requires understanding the differences in daily commute and traffic. This comparison between Austin & San Diego will help you better understand what to expect regarding traffic and transportation options in each city.
In Austin, the average commute time is slightly longer, and traffic congestion is more severe compared to San Diego. Although both cities have their challenges, San Diego offers slightly better public transport options, making it easier for residents to get by without a car. Austin's public transit includes buses and a metro rail system, but its reach and frequency fall short compared to San Diego's trolley and bus services. If relying on public transport, you'll find San Diego's system — encompassing buses, trolleys, and trains — to be more comprehensive, connecting major neighborhoods and attractions with greater ease. This distinction makes living in San Diego without a car a more viable option than in Austin.



Additional Resources
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