Best Tampa to San Diego Movers and Practical Moving Guide

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Tampa to San Diego Movers

Moving from the vibrant, bay-front life of Tampa, FL to the laid-back, sunny vibes of San Diego, CA is an adventure that promises both excitement and a beautiful change of scenery. Leaving behind the "Cigar City" for the "Birthplace of California" means swapping humid summers and lively Latin influences for endless beaches and a relaxed coastal lifestyle. Given the distance and the life-changing nature of this move, it's crucial to rely on trusted and professional movers. At Great Guys Moving, we pride ourselves on connecting you with the best movers the country has to offer, ensuring your journey is smooth and stress-free.

Florida iconArrow iconCalifornia icon

Best Tampa to San Diego Moving Companies

Company NameRating QuestionBBB RatingLicenseContact
The Rock Movers9.50NRAuthorized For HHGContact
Coast 2 Coast Moving, Inc.9.47NRAuthorized For HHGContact
Let's Get Moving9.14A+Authorized For HHGContact
Two Men and a Truck9.06A+Authorized For Property, HHGContact
Big Man's Moving Company8.18A-Authorized For HHGContact
Phone (800) 787-5428
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from San Diego to Tampa guide.

5 Best Tampa to San Diego Moving Companies

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

The Rock Movers Logo
Exceptional9.50/10
based on 2,305+ data points

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 ...Read More >>

Services

  • Local Residential
  • Furniture Moving
  • Full Packing Service

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 10/18/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3653432 / 1541470

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans4
Registered Drivers7
Total Annual Miles Moved40,000 (2023)
View Full Review
1
Coast 2 Coast Moving, Inc. Logo
Exceptional9.47/10
based on 477+ data points

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, the compan...Read More >>

Services

  • Local Moves
  • Long-Distance Moves
  • Packing Services

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 10/18/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3177184 / 1157114

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans3
Registered Drivers7
Total Annual Miles Moved200,000 (2024)
View Full Review
2
Let's Get Moving Logo
Exceptional9.14/10
based on 1,825+ data points

About Let's Get Moving

This locally-owned moving company has been serving the St. Petersburg, FL, area since 2004. Let's Get Moving is a well-known Florida moving ...Read More >>

Services

  • Commercial moving services
  • Residential moving services
  • Local moving services

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 10/17/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2270761 / 775415

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans6
Registered Drivers6
Total Annual Miles Moved78,000 (2023)
View Full Review
3
Two Men and a Truck Logo
Exceptional9.06/10
based on 5,201+ data points

About Two Men and a Truck

Two Men and a Truck is a full-service, national moving company in Florida with over 35 years of experience. With a comprehensive range of se...Read More >>

Services

  • Local moving
  • Junk removal
  • Storage

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 9/11/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2113690 / FF-19726 812151

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans10
Registered Drivers13
Total Annual Miles Moved310,000 (2023)
View Full Review
4
Big Man's Moving Company Logo
Very Good8.18/10
based on 1,840+ data points

About Big Man's Moving Company

Big Man’s Moving Company is a top-rated local and long-distance mover in Tampa, FL. It has helped over 6,000 people relocate successfully si...Read More >>

Services

  • Local Moving
  • Long Distance Moving
  • Out of State Moving

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 10/18/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2951960 / 14801

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans8
Registered Drivers8
Total Annual Miles Moved120,000 (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.

Tampa vs. San Diego Neighborhood Comparison

Moving can be a daunting task, especially to an unfamiliar city. To ease this transition, we've created a comparison to help someone familiarize themselves with an unfamiliar city by using their existing city as a baseline. We'll explore the comparison of the local neighborhoods between Tampa, FL & San Diego, CA, identifying similar areas based on lifestyle, culture, and amenities. This guide aims to make you feel right at home in your new neighborhood.

TampaSan DiegoHow They're Similar
Hyde ParkNorth ParkTrendy, historic homes
South TampaPoint LomaUpscale, coastal charm
Ybor CityHillcrestVibrant nightlife, rich history
Davis IslandsCoronadoLuxurious, island living
Seminole HeightsGolden HillArtsy, eclectic vibe
New TampaCarmel ValleyFamily-friendly, modern
WestchaseRancho BernardoWell-planned, community-focused
CarrollwoodDel CerroQuiet, suburban feel
ChannelsideLittle ItalyBustling, urban waterfront
Palma CeiaLa JollaUpscale, picturesque beaches

Exploring these neighborhoods further, if you love the quaint, tree-lined streets of Hyde Park, with its charming bungalows and vibrant dining scene, including hotspots like Bartaco, you'll find a similar appeal in North Park. San Diego's North Park boasts historic homes and trendy eateries such as Crazee Burger. For those intrigued by Ybor City's rich cultural tapestry and bustling nightlife, Hillcrest offers a comparable experience with its colorful festivals and renowned establishments like Urban MO's Bar & Grill. Lastly, if the luxurious island life of Davis Islands appeals to you, Coronado will captivate you with its world-famous Hotel del Coronado, pristine beaches, and exclusive lifestyle, mirroring the opulent yet serene ambiance you're accustomed to.

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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 Tampa to San Diego

Moving across the country is a major life decision that deserves a deep dive into the benefits and drawbacks. This comparison aims to provide an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of relocating from Tampa, FL to San Diego, CA . Through carefully crafted charts, we'll explore how your lifestyle might change for better or worse.

CONs
PROs
Tampa, FL iconTampa, FL
  • High humidity
  • Hurricane risk
  • Less cultural diversity
  • More affordable
San Diego, CA iconSan Diego, CA
  • Mild climate
  • Lower disaster risk
  • Greater cultural diversity
  • Better job market
San Diego, CA iconSan Diego, CA
  • Higher cost of living
  • More traffic
  • Less affordable housing
  • Cooler summers
Tampa, FL iconTampa, FL
  • Beach access
  • Laid-back lifestyle
  • Lower cost of living
  • Warmer winters

Moving from Tampa to San Diego means trading in Florida's high humidity and hurricane seasons for California's mild climate and lower risk of natural disasters. While Tampa may offer a more affordable cost of living, San Diego's vibrant job market in sectors like biotech and defense may balance the scales. The transition from the Gulf Coast's laid-back lifestyle to the West Coast's dynamic diversity can be a thrilling change. In San Diego, neighborhoods such as Little Italy and Gaslamp Quarter offer an array of dining, shopping, and cultural experiences that are unmatched. Balboa Park, a cultural icon with numerous museums, gardens, and the famed San Diego Zoo, is a testament to the city's rich cultural fabric. For beach lovers, the shift from Tampa's beaches to the iconic shores of La Jolla or Coronado in San Diego presents a unique blend of surf, sand, and sunsets, making the move a gateway to new adventures.

Tampa vs. San Diego Food Guide

This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Tampa & San Diego to help you understand the food scene in your new city. Food is a crucial part of local culture, and knowing what culinary delights await can make your move exciting.

TampaSan Diego
Most iconic local food itemCuban SandwichCalifornia Burrito
Most popular meat dishGrouper SandwichCarne Asada
Most popular street food itemDeviled CrabFish Tacos
Most popular vegan foodJackfruit BBQAvocado Toast
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
  • Bern's Steak House
  • Columbia Restaurant
  • Ulele
  • George's at the Cove
  • Mister A's
  • Phil's BBQ
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
Abundance of Food Trucks🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
Foodie Scene🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

In Tampa, the Cuban Sandwich reigns supreme, especially in historic Ybor City, where you can experience its rich flavor at numerous local shops. Similarly, San Diego's food scene is synonymous with the California Burrito, with spots like Lolita's Mexican Food and Tacos El Gordo being local favorites. Both cities offer a vibrant food scene, but San Diego slightly edges out with a stronger focus on health-conscious and vegan options, reflective of its fitness-centric lifestyle. Explore the Gaslamp Quarter in San Diego or take a stroll down Tampa's Riverwalk to savor diverse culinary delights that encapsulate the essence of each city.

Tampa vs. San Diego Restaurant Comparison

When relocating, discovering local dining gems is key to feeling at home in a new city. Through this restaurant comparison from Tampa to San Diego , find familiar flavors and ambiance to ease your transition. Whether you're craving high-end dining experiences or casual, iconic meals, this guide will assist in finding your next favorite eatery, turning your move into a delicious adventure.

TampaSan DiegoWhat You'll Love
Bern's Steak HouseCowboy Star Restaurant & Butcher ShopHigh-end steaks with a commitment to quality meats
Columbia RestaurantCafé SevillaAuthentic Spanish cuisine with live performances
UleleKettner ExchangeCreative American cuisine with a local twist
Charley's Steak HouseFleming's Prime SteakhouseUpscale dining for steak enthusiasts
Ella's Americana Folk Art CafeGreat MapleUnique comfort foods with an eclectic flair
La Terrazza RestaurantBencotto Italian KitchenMasterfully crafted Italian dishes in a cozy setting
DatzHash House A Go GoCreative and oversized versions of American classics
Guppy's on the BeachGeorge’s at the Cove – Ocean TerraceOceanfront dining with fresh seafood
Oxford ExchangeLiberty Public MarketDiverse culinary experiences in a market setting
Rooster & the TillJuniper & IvyInnovative and refined modern American cuisine

As you embark on your culinary journey in San Diego, establishments like Cowboy Star Restaurant & Butcher Shop and Café Sevilla stand out for their dedication to quality and authentic experiences, mirroring the cherished dining spots of Tampa. San Diego’s Kettner Exchange offers innovative dishes with a local San Diego twist, reminiscent of Ulele’s commitment to creative American cuisine. For those seeking comfort with a side of creativity, Great Maple in San Diego echoes the eclectic charm and unique flavors found at Ella's Americana Folk Art Cafe. Each restaurant on this list not only serves as a bridge between your old and new homes but also showcases the distinctive culinary flair that makes each city special.

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Ready to start your move?

Tampa vs. San Diego Real Estate & Living Facts

Real estate is a crucial aspect of relocating. This comparison aims to provide insights into how Tampa, FL and San Diego, CA stack up against each other regarding housing . From costs to lifestyle, understanding these differences is key to making an informed decision.

ComparisonTampaSan Diego
Typical Architecture StyleMediterranean, CraftsmanSpanish Colonial, Modern
Walkability 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listingWaterfront, DockOcean View, Eco-Friendly

Moving from Tampa to San Diego means preparing for higher housing costs, but also enjoying a more urban lifestyle with better walkability and bikeability. San Diego’s median home price and rent are significantly higher than Tampa's, reflecting its desirability and the cost of living near the coast. The typical architecture in San Diego leans more towards Spanish Colonial and modern designs, aligning with the city's historical roots and contemporary ethos. Urban lifestyle scores higher in San Diego, supported by its diverse neighborhoods and the emphasis on eco-friendly living. These factors contribute to making San Diego an attractive, albeit pricier, place to call home.

Pet-friendly neighborhoods background image

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.

Tampa vs. San Diego Weather Considerations

When planning your move from Tampa, FL to San Diego, CA, understanding the weather differences is crucial. This comparison will illustrate what climate changes you can expect and how well you'll adapt to your new environment. Let’s compare the Tampa and San Diego weather to see how they stack up.

Summer icon
90°F / 75°F

Tampa, FL

77°F / 67°F

San Diego, CA

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
70°F / 52°F

Tampa, FL

66°F / 50°F

San Diego, CA

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
44.8"

Tampa, FL

10.34"

San Diego, CA

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
0"

Tampa, FL

0"

San Diego, CA

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

ComparisonTampaSan Diego
Air QualityModerateGood
Natural DisastersHurricanesEarthquakes
Days of Sunshine per Year☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. UV Index🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Avg. Annual Humidity💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦

While Tampa and San Diego both offer warm environments conducive to outdoor activities year-round, they differ significantly in humidity and rainfall. San Diego's lower humidity and sparse rainfall offer a more comfortable climate, especially for those not fond of Florida's intense summer humidity. Additionally, with more days of sunshine and better air quality, San Diego may provide a healthier living environment. It's also worth noting the difference in natural disasters, from hurricanes in Tampa to earthquakes in San Diego, which could affect your insurance and emergency planning.

Ready to start your move?

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

When considering a move from Tampa, FL to San Diego, CA, it's essential to grasp how your finances will be affected. This comparison aims to shed light on the cost of living and financial landscape in both cities , ensuring you're well-prepared for your transition.

ComparisonTampaSan Diego
Avg. Household Income$63,404$93,042
Cost of Living Index92.4132.3
State Income Tax0%Approx. 9.3%
Avg. Property Tax0.97%0.76%
Avg. Sales Tax7%7.75%
Top 3 IndustriesTourism, Healthcare, RetailDefense/Military, Tourism, International Trade
Affluencemoderatehigher
Povertypresentless visible
Homelessnessissuesignificant concern

Understanding the financial implications of moving from Tampa to San Diego is crucial for a smooth transition. The average household income in San Diego is significantly higher than in Tampa, which mirrors the city's substantially higher cost of living index. California's state income tax also presents a notable adjustment for those moving from tax-free Florida. Despite this, the allure of San Diego's robust defense, tourism, and international trade industries might offset these financial challenges for some. Additionally, while both cities face challenges with homelessness, San Diego reports it as a significant concern, reflecting broader statewide issues.

Tampa vs. San Diego Political & Religious Comparison

Considering a move from Tampa to San Diego? This quick overview offers an at-a-glance snapshot to help you understand how the political and religious makeup between Tampa & San Diego compares. This comparison aims to prepare you for the community you're planning to call home.

TampaSan Diego
Political Make-upLeans DemocraticLeans Democratic
Local PoliticsProgressive city initiativesStrong military influence
ReligionChristian majority, diverse religious presenceChristian majority, with significant diverse religious groups

Both Tampa and San Diego lean Democratic in their political makeup, reflecting a somewhat progressive stance in political perspectives shared by their inhabitants. While Tampa has been known for pushing forward progressive city initiatives, San Diego's political climate is deeply influenced by its strong military presence, shaping local politics and community values in unique ways. Religion in both cities is marked by a Christian majority, but there's also a rich tapestry of diverse religious communities. This creates an environment where various faiths coexist, contributing to the cities’ cultural diversity and inclusivity.

Tampa vs. San Diego Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

Moving from Tampa, FL to San Diego, CA requires understanding the differences in daily commute and traffic to ensure a smooth transition. This comparison aims to give you insights into what driving and transiting are like in each city, helping you to plan your day more effectively.

ComparisonTampaSan Diego
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)25.424.7
Traffic Congestion 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦
Availability of Public Transit 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇
Can you get by without car?NoYes, with planning

When comparing Tampa and San Diego, while both cities have relatively similar average commute times, San Diego presents slightly higher traffic congestion rates. However, the availability of public transit in San Diego is notably better, making it more feasible to live without a car – a significant distinction from Tampa. San Diego's public transit includes a broader network of buses and trolleys, linking key areas and attractions such as the San Diego Zoo and Seaport Village, thus, offering both residents and visitors more flexibility in their travel plans.

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