Best Los Angeles to San Diego Movers and Practical Moving Guide
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Moving from the glitzy streets of Los Angeles, the City of Angels, to the laid-back, sun-kissed vibes of San Diego is an adventure that beckons with the promise of new experiences and opportunities. Leaving behind the iconic Hollywood scene and the bustling urban life for the relaxed, beach-centric lifestyle of “America’s Finest City” is a journey filled with exciting contrasts. Understanding the importance of this transition, we stress the critical role trusted and reliable professional movers play in transforming your long-distance move from a daunting task to a smooth and efficient process, ensuring you can focus on the exciting chapter ahead.
Best Los Angeles to San Diego Moving Companies
(800) 787-5428
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from San Diego to Los Angeles guide.
5 Best Los Angeles to San Diego Moving Companies
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
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 specializ...Read More >>
Services
- Local Moves in NYC
- Long-Distance Moving
- Commercial Moving
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 a...Read More >>
Services
- Affordable fast friendly movers
- Local and long distance moving
- Fully licensed and insured
About The Small Delivery Co.
Moving is a difficult task, even if you're just moving from a studio apartment. Unfortunately, some moving companies have a minimum service ...Read More >>
Services
- Small move assistance (single items, one room of furniture, studio apartments, up to a one bedroom apartment)
- Furniture delivery/specialty items/donation drop off
- Loading/unloading a moving truck or storage container
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2690366 / - Not Authorized Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 1 |
| Registered Drivers | 1 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | - |
About Fastruck Moving Company
Fastruck Moving Company was established in 2009 by three brothers – Al, Tim, and Ross, all of whom are enthusiastic and knowledgeable about ...Read More >>
Services
- Local residential moves
- Office and commercial moves
- Piano moving service
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3056069 / - Not Authorized Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 4 |
| Registered Drivers | 4 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 47,516 (2022) |
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 packing services in S...Read More >>
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.
Los Angeles vs. San Diego Neighborhood Comparison
When relocating from one city to another, it can be comforting and exciting to find a new neighborhood that feels like home. This guide is designed to compare local neighborhoods between Los Angeles, CA & San Diego, CA , to help you familiarize yourself with your soon-to-be home. By identifying similar neighborhoods, you'll be able to envision your life in San Diego more vividly and make an informed decision on where to plant your roots.
| Los Angeles | San Diego | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Silver Lake | North Park | Trendy, artistic vibe |
| Venice | Ocean Beach | Laid-back, beach culture |
| Downtown LA | Little Italy | Bustling, urban atmosphere |
| Hollywood | Hillcrest | Vibrant nightlife, LGBTQ+ friendly |
| Brentwood | La Jolla | Upscale, beachside community |
| West Hollywood | North Park | Eclectic, LGBTQ+ welcoming |
| Echo Park | South Park | Hip, with a sense of community |
| Beverly Hills | Del Mar | Luxury, exclusive shops |
| Los Feliz | Encinitas | Laid-back, with a creative flair |
| Santa Monica | Coronado | Beachfront, resort-like feel |
For instance, if you're drawn to the vibrant arts scene and indie cafes of Silver Lake, you may find North Park's trendy and artistic vibe to be a perfect match. North Park boasts an array of local eateries such as Station Tavern and cultural events that mirror Silver Lake's lively community festivals. Similarly, Venice's laid-back beach culture is paralleled in Ocean Beach, where places like Wonderland Ocean Pub offer stunning ocean views with a side of local charm. Those who appreciate the upscale and luxurious atmosphere of Beverly Hills might find Del Mar with its exclusive shops and ocean vistas, like those at Del Mar Racetrack, to be an enticing alternative. These comparisons aim to highlight the unique features and distinctive charm that each San Diego neighborhood can offer to those familiar with the Los Angeles lifestyle.
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 Los Angeles to San Diego
Moving from one city to another always brings a mix of emotions and considerations. This guide aims to compare the pros and cons of relocating from Los Angeles, CA to San Diego, CA , providing a clear, honest reflection of what to expect. By examining the good and the bad, you'll be better prepared for your upcoming transition.
Los Angeles, CA- Higher cost of living
- More traffic congestion
- Denser population
- Less accessible beaches
San Diego, CA- Lower cost of living
- Less traffic
- More laid-back vibe
- More accessible beaches
San Diego, CA- Smaller entertainment scene
- Fewer job opportunities
- Less cultural diversity
- Lesser dining variety
Los Angeles, CA- Vibrant entertainment scene
- More job opportunities
- Greater cultural diversity
- Diverse dining options
Moving from Los Angeles to San Diego presents a shift towards a more tranquil lifestyle without sacrificing California's unique charm. San Diego's beaches are not only more accessible but also less crowded, offering a serene escape. Balboa Park, another gem, is a sprawling oasis in the heart of the city, unlike LA’s more distributed parks. In terms of dining, while LA boasts a broader variety, San Diego holds its own with renowned spots like Juniper & Ivy and Cucina Urbana, promising memorable culinary experiences. Although San Diego's entertainment scene may seem smaller, venues like Balboa Theatre and the vibrant Gaslamp Quarter ensure you're never far from engaging attractions and nightlife.
Los Angeles vs. San Diego Food Guide
As you consider relocating, it's essential to understand that food plays a significant role in experiencing local culture. To help you get a better feel for your new home, we've prepared a comparison of the local cuisine between Los Angeles & San Diego. This will give you a quick glimpse into what each city has to offer, aiding in a smoother transition to your exciting new environment.
| Los Angeles | San Diego | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Korean BBQ | Fish Tacos |
| Most popular meat dish | Carne Asada | Carne Asada Burrito |
| Most popular street food item | Tacos | California Burrito |
| Most popular vegan food | Avocado Toast | Vegan Tacos |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
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|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
In Los Angeles, the food scene is as diverse as its population. The city's love for Korean BBQ and Carne Asada showcases its rich multicultural tapestry. You can find the city's most iconic delicacies in neighborhoods like Koreatown for Korean BBQ or in various taco trucks sprinkled across the city, embodying L.A.'s vibrant street food scene. However, if you're moving to San Diego, prepare to dive into a world where Mexican cuisine reigns supreme. Fish Tacos and Carne Asada Burritos are local staples, found in beachfront eateries and quaint restaurants like Las Olas and Hodad's, which offer a taste of the city's laid-back, coastal vibe. Both cities boast a strong health and fitness culture, reflected in their plethora of vegan options and the general conscientiousness towards healthy living.
Los Angeles vs. San Diego Restaurant Comparison
When relocating, finding new go-to spots for dining can make a new city feel like home. This comparison aims to ease your move from Los Angeles to San Diego by matching top Los Angeles restaurants to San Diego eateries , helping you discover your next culinary favorites. Let's make your transition as flavorful as possible.
| Los Angeles | San Diego | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Bestia | Born & Raised | Both offer high-end, meat-centric dining experiences. |
| Republique | Jeune et Jolie | French-inspired bistros with a modern twist. |
| Roscoe's House of Chicken and Waffles | StreetCar Merchants | Soul food classics with a San Diego flair. |
| Guelaguetza | El Comal | Authentic Oaxacan cuisine and Mexican favorites. |
| Grand Central Market | Liberty Public Market | Both are food halls offering a variety of local eats. |
| In-N-Out Burger | Hodad's | Iconic burgers, laid-back vibes. |
| Nobu | Sushi Ota | Prestigious sushi spots known for their quality and innovation. |
| The Ivy | Mr. A's | Upscale dining with a stunning view, perfect for special occasions. |
| Howlin' Ray's | Coop's West Texas BBQ | For a taste of smoky, spicy goodness. |
| Gracias Madre | Kindred | Vegan restaurants with unique, bold flavors. |
Los Angeles and San Diego both boast vibrant food scenes that cater to diverse palates, allowing you to indulge in familiar flavors or explore new ones. For instance, if you're a fan of Bestia in Los Angeles for its exquisite Italian dishes and charcuterie, you'll find Born & Raised in San Diego offers a comparable atmosphere with a focus on steaks and sophisticated cocktails. Meanwhile, the transition from Roscoe's House of Chicken and Waffles to StreetCar Merchants will satisfy your cravings for hearty, soul-food classics with a unique San Diego twist. Whether you're in the mood for upscale dining or laid-back eateries, transitioning between these two cities doesn't mean sacrificing your culinary favorites.
Ready to start your move?
Los Angeles vs. San Diego Real Estate & Living Facts
Real estate is crucial when considering a move. Knowing how Los Angeles and San Diego compare in terms of housing can enlighten your decision. This includes insights into cost, architecture, and lifestyle.
| Comparison | Los Angeles | San Diego |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Modern, Spanish | Spanish Colonial, Modern |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Open floor plans, outdoor space | Ocean views, proximity to beaches |
When comparing Los Angeles and San Diego, one notable difference is the median home price, with Los Angeles averaging at $950,000 and San Diego at $800,000, reflecting a somewhat more affordable market in San Diego for potential homeowners. Monthly rent follows a similar trend, albeit the difference is less pronounced. Architecture in both cities favors modern and Spanish styles, but San Diego listings uniquely highlight ocean views and beach proximity - a testament to its picturesque coastal location. Additionally, San Diego scores slightly higher in walkability and bikeability, suggesting a slightly more accessible urban environment for residents who prefer to travel on foot or by bike.
Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in San Diego, CA
1. Ocean Beach: Known for its laid-back vibe, Ocean Beach features Dog Beach, where your furry friends can play off-leash in the surf and sand.
2. North Park: A neighborhood that embraces pet owners, North Park offers several pet-friendly dining options and the Morley Field Dog Park for off-leash fun.
3. Little Italy: This vibrant neighborhood not only has multiple pet-friendly patios for dining but also hosts the annual Little Italy Doggie Street Festival, celebrating pets and their families.
Los Angeles vs. San Diego Weather Considerations
When relocating from one city to another, understanding the variances in climate is crucial for a seamless transition. This comparison aims to highlight how the weather in Los Angeles contrasts with San Diego, assisting you in preparing for your move adequately.
Los Angeles, CA
San Diego, CA
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Los Angeles, CA
San Diego, CA
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Los Angeles, CA
San Diego, CA
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Los Angeles, CA
San Diego, CA
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Los Angeles | San Diego |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Moderate | Good |
| Natural Disasters | Earthquakes, Wildfires | Earthquakes, Wildfires |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
Moving from Los Angeles to San Diego, you'll experience a slight dip in summer temperatures, making San Diego a tad cooler and more comfortable during these months. While both cities enjoy a healthy number of sunny days annually, San Diego tends to have a higher average humidity level, which might feel different if you're used to the drier Los Angeles climate. Air quality is also generally better in San Diego, which could be a significant factor if you have health concerns or are sensitive to pollution.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Los Angeles to San Diego
When relocating, it's essential to compare the financial aspects of your current city to your future one. This comparison will illuminate the differences in cost of living , income levels , and taxation between Los Angeles and San Diego , equipping you with the knowledge to manage your finances efficiently in your new home.
| Comparison | Los Angeles | San Diego |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $70,372 | $93,042 |
| Cost of Living Index | 136.4 | 132.3 |
| State Income Tax | 9.3% | 9.3% |
| Avg. Property Tax | 0.73% | 0.76% |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 9.5% | 7.75% |
| Top 3 Industries | Entertainment, Manufacturing, Tourism | Defense/Military, Tourism, International Trade |
| Affluence | High | Higher |
| Poverty | Noticeable | Moderate |
| Homelessness | Significant | Less significant |
Understanding the economic disparities between Los Angeles and San Diego can greatly impact your decision-making process and lifestyle adjustments upon moving. San Diego generally boasts a higher average household income and a slightly lesser cost of living index than Los Angeles, potentially offering a more comfortable living situation. Furthermore, the sales tax in San Diego is lower, allowing for a bit more savings on purchases. However, it is important to note that both cities share the same state income tax rate, emphasizing the importance of California's financial regulations regardless of your city choice. Given these factors, weighing your financial situation in the context of these two dynamic, but distinct, economic environments is critical in ensuring a smooth transition.
Los Angeles vs. San Diego Political & Religious Comparison
This guide offers a quick, at-a-glance snapshot comparing the political and religious makeup between Los Angeles & San Diego , providing insights into the communities you're moving from and to. Understanding these aspects can help you better integrate and connect with your new city.
| Los Angeles | San Diego | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Liberal/Democratic | Moderately Liberal/Democratic |
| Local Politics | Progressive Policies | Mixed Progressive & Conservative Policies |
| Religion | Diverse; includes Christianity, Buddhism, Islam, Judaism | Diverse; Christianity predominant, with a significant number of non-religious residents |
In both Los Angeles and San Diego, you'll find a politically active and diverse population, though LA tends to have more progressive leanings in its local policies. San Diego presents a more blended spectrum of political beliefs, balancing progressive and conservative views. Religious diversity is a hallmark of both cities, with a wide array of faiths practiced. However, San Diego has a larger proportion of residents identifying as non-religious. Embracing the political and religious dynamics of your new home can be an enriching part of your move.
Los Angeles vs. San Diego Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
As you consider moving from Los Angeles, CA to San Diego, CA, understanding the differences in traffic and transportation options between these two cities is crucial. This comparison will give you insights into what your daily commute and traffic experience might be like.
| Comparison | Los Angeles | San Diego |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 53 | 25 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without a car? | Challenging | Easier |
When comparing Los Angeles and San Diego, it’s evident that San Diego offers a more relaxed commuting experience with an average commute time roughly half that of Los Angeles. The lower traffic congestion rating for San Diego means you’ll likely spend less time in your car, and even though public transport options are less extensive than in Los Angeles, getting around San Diego without a car is comparatively easier. This might be due to the compact layout of San Diego, which also benefits from active ride-sharing and biking communities, enhancing its accessibility.
Popular Los Angeles, CA to California Moving Routes
- Los Angeles to San Jose
- Los Angeles to San Francisco
- Los Angeles to Fresno
- Los Angeles to Sacramento
- Los Angeles to Long Beach
- Los Angeles to Oakland
- Los Angeles to Bakersfield
- Los Angeles to Anaheim
- Los Angeles to Santa Ana
- Los Angeles to Riverside
- Los Angeles to Stockton
- Los Angeles to Irvine
- Los Angeles to Chula Vista
- Los Angeles to Fremont
- Los Angeles to San Bernardino
- Los Angeles to Modesto
- Los Angeles to Fontana
- Los Angeles to Moreno Valley
Popular Moving Routes
Nearby Moving Routes
