Best Mobile to San Diego Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from Mobile to San Diego and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 1,967 mile move from Alabama to California go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 17 Mobile to San Diego moving companies and more than 15,000 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 $2,500 - $8,500 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Mobile 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 Mobile to San Diego Moving Companies
| Rank | Company Name | Rating  | Affordability Index | License | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | The Rock Movers | 9.49 | 9.53 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 2 | Coast 2 Coast Moving, Inc. | 9.46 | 9.62 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 3 | Big Fish Moving Company | 8.89 | 9.02 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 4 | Eastern Shore Transfer | 7.65 | 8 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 5 | Two Men and a Truck | 6.69 | 5.74 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
(800) 787-5428Cost to Move from Mobile to San Diego
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 1,967 miles from Mobile, AL to San Diego, CA will cost on average $3,454 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Mobile to San Diego move is roughly $8,333. 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 | $2,318 | 300 ft³ | 7.73 |
| 1 Bedroom | $3,454 | 450 ft³ | 7.68 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $5,719 | 750 ft³ | 7.63 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $8,333 | 1100 ft³ | 7.58 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $12,041 | 1600 ft³ | 7.53 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $13,456 | 1800 ft³ | 7.48 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from San Diego to Mobile guide.
Compare the 5 Best Mobile 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) |
Big Fish Moving Company
Daphne, AL, 36526
About Big Fish Moving Company
Big Fish Moving Company is your source for reliable residential and commercial moving services in Pensacola, Florida and Alabama Gulf Coast...
Services
- Cheap moving services
- Local moving services
- Long-distance moving services
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3369561 / 1080120 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 3 |
| Registered Drivers | 3 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 32,476 (2023) |
Eastern Shore Transfer
25421 AL-181
Daphne, AL, 36526
About Eastern Shore Transfer
Eastern Shore Transfer is a professional moving and storage company based in Daphne, Alabama, with additional locations in the Baldwin, Mobile,...
Services
- Antique Delivery & Relocation
- Local & Long Distance Residential Moves
- Local & Long Distance Commercial Moves
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2644092 / 1020428 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 6 |
| Registered Drivers | 8 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 125,000 (2022) |
Two Men and a Truck
3759 Government Blvd
Mobile, AL, 36693
About Two Men and a Truck
Two Men and a Truck is a well-established nationwide moving and storage company that started in the 1980s. The Mobile franchise,...
Services
- Local moving
- Junk removal
- Storage
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 930909 / 401062 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 24 |
| Registered Drivers | 20 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 200,000 (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.
Mobile vs. San Diego Neighborhood Comparison
When making a big move, familiarizing yourself with your new surroundings can be a daunting task. To ease the transition, this guide offers a unique comparison of local neighborhoods between Mobile, AL & San Diego, CA , aiming to match you with a San Diego neighborhood that reflects the essence of your favorite Mobile locale. By drawing parallels between these neighborhoods, we help bridge the gap between the familiar and the new.
| Mobile | San Diego | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Midtown | North Park | Vibrant arts, craft beer scene |
| Spring Hill | La Jolla | Upscale, close to universities |
| Old Dauphin Way Historic District | South Park | Historic homes, indie shops |
| West Mobile | Clairemont | Family-friendly, casual dining |
| Downtown Mobile | Gaslamp Quarter | Historic district, nightlife |
| Orange Grove | Normal Heights | Eclectic, upcoming neighborhood |
| Oakleigh Garden Historic District | Hillcrest | Diverse community, rich history |
| Ashland Place | Kensington | Quiet, charming homes |
| Cottage Hill | University Heights | Urban feel, creative spirit |
| Plateau | Golden Hill | Panoramic views, cultural diversity |
Exploring these neighborhoods further, if you're charmed by the quaint, historic streets of Old Dauphin Way Historic District with its rich architectural heritage and local cafes like MoJoe's, you'll find a similar vibe in San Diego's South Park. South Park boasts a collection of indie shops and eateries such as Station Tavern that provide a cozy, community feel. Similarly, if the lively atmosphere and waterfront access of Downtown Mobile appeal to you, the Gaslamp Quarter in San Diego offers a vibrant nightlife alongside historic sights, including the iconic San Diego Maritime Museum. These comparisons aim to highlight how each San Diego neighborhood embodies a piece of what you loved about your Mobile community, making the transition to your new city a bit more like coming home.
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 Mobile to San Diego
Moving from Mobile, AL to San Diego, CA can be a significant change, each with its own set of perks and drawbacks. This comparison aims to offer an honest reflection on the pros and cons of this relocation, highlighting how your life might transform moving from Mobile to San Diego. Whether it’s the weather, cost of living, or lifestyle, understanding these aspects can help ease the transition.
Mobile, AL- Higher humidity
- Lower job opportunities
- Fewer cultural venues
- Smaller city vibe
- Less diverse cuisine
San Diego, CA- Milder climate
- Greater job market
- Rich cultural scene
- Vibrant urban life
- Diverse food options
San Diego, CA- Higher cost of living
- Faster pace of life
- More impersonal
- More crowded parks
- Less historic focus
Mobile, AL- Lower living costs
- Slower pace of life
- Close-knit communities
- Easy access to nature
- Rich historical sites
When considering the move from Mobile, AL to San Diego, CA, it's important to delve into the specifics. San Diego offers a vibrant urban life, rich in cultural scenes and diverse cuisine, represented by establishments like The Museum of Photographic Arts and restaurants such as Juniper and Ivy. On the other hand, Mobile charms with its historical sites like the USS Alabama Battleship Memorial Park and its close-knit communities. While San Diego's Balboa Park and the renowned San Diego Zoo might get crowded, they offer unmatched amenities and unique experiences. The transition may come with higher costs and a faster pace of life, but it also opens doors to broader job markets and a milder climate, making every day in San Diego feel like a breath of fresh air.
Mobile vs. San Diego Food Guide
As you prepare to move, understanding the local cuisine is pivotal because food is an integral part of local culture and what it's like to live in an area. With this in mind, we crafted a comparison to ensure you're well-equipped with knowledge about the culinary landscapes you’ll encounter. This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Mobile & San Diego to guide your taste buds in the right direction.
| Mobile | San Diego | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Gumbo | Fish Tacos |
| Most popular meat dish | BBQ Ribs | Carne Asada |
| Most popular street food item | Shrimp Po’Boy | California Burrito |
| Most popular vegan food | Okra Stew | Acai Bowl |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
Both Mobile and San Diego offer vibrant and diverse culinary scenes that reflect their unique cultures and histories. In Mobile, you'll find yourself enveloped in the warmth of Southern hospitality, with traditional dishes like gumbo and BBQ ribs taking center stage, best enjoyed at local gems like Wintzell's Oyster House. Cross the country to San Diego, and the food scene shifts towards a more health-conscious and international palette. The city shines with its take on Mexican cuisine, highlighted by iconic fish tacos and carne asada, found in bustling locales such as George's at the Cove. The abundance and variety of food trucks along the sun-drenched streets of San Diego also add to its vibrant foodie scene, offering an array of options for every palate, including an impressive selection of vegan alternatives, showcased in neighborhoods like North Park and Ocean Beach.
Mobile vs. San Diego Restaurant Comparison
Discovering the culinary scene is a vital part of making any place feel like home. Our restaurant comparison from Mobile to San Diego aims to find you a new favorite dining spot by using your current favorites as a benchmark. This guide will ease your transition and ensure you don't miss out on fantastic food experiences as you embark on your new adventure.
| Mobile | San Diego | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| NoJa | Juniper & Ivy | High-end dining with innovative American cuisine |
| Dauphin's | Island Prime | Waterfront dining with stunning views and seafood |
| The Noble South | Campfire | Modern American with a focus on local, sustainable ingredients |
| Wintzell's Oyster House | Ironside Fish & Oyster | Exceptional seafood in a unique, industrial setting |
| Callaghan's Irish Social Club | The Field Irish Pub | Authentic Irish fare in a cozy, lively atmosphere |
| Dew Drop Inn | Slater's 50/50 | Known for inventive burgers and a casual vibe |
| Spot of Tea | Madison on Park | Brunch favorites with a chic, modern twist |
| Saisho | Yakitori Taisho | Authentic Japanese cuisine with a focus on grilled dishes |
| Baumhower's Victory Grille | Bub's at the Ballpark | Sports bar with a great selection of pub grub |
| Brick Pit | Grand Ole BBQ y Asado | Unmatched smoked meats and traditional BBQ |
Each restaurant selection is more than just about the food; it's about re-creating the essence and experience of your favorite Mobile eateries in your new San Diego surroundings. Transitioning to San Diego doesn't mean leaving behind the flavors you love. At Juniper & Ivy, for example, you'll find the inventive, high-end dining experience reminiscent of Mobile's NoJa, but with a unique Californian twist. For those who relish the casual yet iconic atmosphere of Dew Drop Inn, Slater's 50/50 in San Diego will satisfy your craving for burgers with a creative spin. What's more, the commitment to quality and a memorable dining ambiance is paralleled at both Wintzell's Oyster House and San Diego's Ironside Fish & Oyster, ensuring seafood lovers can find a new go-to spot that feels like home.
Ready to start your move?
Mobile vs. San Diego Real Estate & Living Facts
When considering a move, understanding the differences in real estate between Mobile, AL, and San Diego, CA can be crucial in making an informed decision. This comparison will shed light on essential aspects such as cost and lifestyle, helping you navigate the intricate world of housing in both cities.
| Comparison | Mobile | San Diego |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Colonial, Cottage | Spanish, Modern |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Spacious backyard, historic charm | Ocean view, eco-friendly |
In Mobile, properties often boast spacious backyards and historic charm, reflecting the city's rich historical heritage and preference for comfort and space. On the other hand, San Diego's real estate market places a high value on ocean views and eco-friendly features, indicative of its modern, environmental-conscious mindset and beach-centric lifestyle. The significant difference in median home prices and rent between the two cities underscores the premium on living in San Diego, celebrated for its walkable neighborhoods, robust urban lifestyle, and beautiful architecture that blends Spanish influences with modern innovation.
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.
Mobile vs. San Diego Weather Considerations
When moving from Mobile, AL to San Diego, CA, it's crucial to grasp the weather changes you will encounter. Understanding the climate's impact on your lifestyle, health, and activities is essential. This comparison aims to highlight the weather variations to prepare you for the transition.
Mobile, AL
San Diego, CA
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Mobile, AL
San Diego, CA
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Mobile, AL
San Diego, CA
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Mobile, AL
San Diego, CA
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Mobile | San Diego |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Moderate | Good |
| Natural Disasters | Hurricanes, Thunderstorms | Earthquakes, Wildfires |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
As you transition from Mobile to San Diego, the immediate change you'll notice is the significant increase in sunny days and the milder summers. San Diego offers a more stable and comfortable climate year-round, with fewer humidity extremes and a lower annual rainfall. However, it's also important to be aware of the natural disaster risks that shift from hurricanes and thunderstorms in Mobile to earthquakes and wildfires in San Diego. Additionally, while both cities share pollen as a top seasonal allergy, San Diego's consistently good air quality is a noticeable benefit for residents coming from Mobile. Understanding these differences can help you prepare for a smoother adaptation to your new environment.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Mobile to San Diego
When planning a move from one location to another, it's crucial to understand the financial implications. This comparison aims to elucidate the differences in money and finance between Mobile, AL, and San Diego, CA , helping you gauge how your financial situation might transform with this change. Understanding the cost of living, taxes, and income opportunities can significantly impact your decision and preparedness for such a transition.
| Comparison | Mobile | San Diego |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $43,786 | $93,042 |
| Cost of Living Index | 92.7 | 132.3 |
| State Income Tax | 5 | 13.3 |
| Avg. Property Tax | 0.33 | 0.76 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 10 | 7.75 |
| Top 3 Industries | Aerospace, Shipbuilding, Healthcare | Defense/Military, Tourism, International Trade |
| Affluence | Moderate | High |
| Poverty | Considerable | Lower |
| Homelessness | Significant | Severe |
Moving from Mobile, AL, to San Diego, CA, you'll notice a drastic change in the cost of living—it's nearly double in San Diego. However, this is somewhat balanced by higher average household incomes in California's coastal city. Taxes are another important consideration, particularly state income tax, which is notably higher in California. While you might find property and sales taxes more favorable in Mobile, the potential for increased income in San Diego's thriving industries like defense/military, tourism, and international trade may offset these differences. Regardless, preparedness for higher living costs, including housing, is essential for a smooth transition.
Mobile vs. San Diego Political & Religious Comparison
This brief comparison aims to provide you with a quick snapshot of the contrasts in political and religious landscapes between the cities you're transitioning from and to: Mobile & San Diego. Understanding these differences can help you better acclimate to your new home.
| Mobile | San Diego | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Conservative-leaning | Liberal-leaning |
| Local Politics | More Republican influence | More Democratic influence |
| Religion | Higher concentration of Christian establishments | More religiously diverse, with notable faith-based communities |
While Mobile, AL, might have a more conservative-leaning political environment, and its local politics tend to be influenced more by Republican ideals, San Diego, CA, embraces a more liberal approach with a Democratic popularity in local governance. This reflects not only in policy but in community initiatives and public services. Furthermore, San Diego's religious landscape offers a broader spectrum of faith-based communities compared to Mobile's predominantly Christian orientation. This diversity in San Diego enriches your experience through exposure to various cultures and religious practices, not just enhancing your understanding but potentially broadening your social circles.
Mobile vs. San Diego Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Understanding the differences in driving and transiting between Mobile, AL, and San Diego, CA, will help you adjust to the daily commute and traffic dynamics of these cities.
| Comparison | Mobile | San Diego |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 24 | 26 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | Challenging | Easier |
When making the move from Mobile to San Diego, you'll notice traffic is a bit more congested in California, attributing to a slightly higher average commute time. Public transit in San Diego is more robust, making it relatively easier to navigate the city without a car - a stark contrast to Mobile, where having a vehicle is almost a necessity. San Diego's investment in its public transportation system, including buses and light rail options, significantly contributes to this difference. This could potentially influence your decision on whether to rely on a personal vehicle or explore public transportation options after your move.
Additional Resources
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