Best Tucson to San Diego Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from Tucson to San Diego and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 410 mile move from Arizona to California go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 28 Tucson 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 $1,500 - $5,000 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Tucson 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 Tucson 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 | Moving Buddies Tucson AZ | 9.06 | 9.23 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 4 | Get Your Move On, LLC | 9.03 | 8.37 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 5 | Abba & Sons Moving LLC | 8.90 | 9.2 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
(800) 787-5428Cost to Move from Tucson to San Diego
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 410 miles from Tucson, AZ to San Diego, CA will cost on average $2,130 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Tucson to San Diego move is roughly $5,096. 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 | $1,435 | 300 ft³ | 4.78 |
| 1 Bedroom | $2,130 | 450 ft³ | 4.73 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $3,512 | 750 ft³ | 4.68 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $5,096 | 1100 ft³ | 4.63 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $7,333 | 1600 ft³ | 4.58 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $8,160 | 1800 ft³ | 4.53 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from San Diego to Tucson guide.
Compare the 5 Best Tucson 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) |
Moving Buddies Tucson AZ
5502 E 25th St
Tucson, AZ, 85711
About Moving Buddies Tucson AZ
Since 2011, this family-owned moving company has been building a reputation in Tucson, AZ, for excellence, professionalism, and integrity. Moving Buddies...
Services
- Cheap moving services
- Local moving services
- Long-distance moving services
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3531262 / 1542042 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 1 |
| Registered Drivers | 2 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 6,000 (2022) |
Get Your Move On, LLC
1430 E Hadley St # 110
Phoenix, AZ, 85034
About Get Your Move On, LLC
This family-owned and operated moving company has been helping Phoenix, AZ residents move since 2005. Get Your Move On was founded...
Services
- Local moving services
- Long-distance moving services
- Cross-country moving services
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 1885055 / 990813 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 15 |
| Registered Drivers | 19 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 350,000 (2023) |
Abba & Sons Moving LLC
237 W Fort Lowell Rd
Tucson, AZ, 85705
About Abba & Sons Moving LLC
Based in Tucson, Abba and Sons Moving is a family-owned company that serves all of Southern Arizona with residential and commercial...
Services
- Home/Apartment Moving Services
- Moving and Packing Services
- Specializing in homes, offices, apartments
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 1921793 / 32280 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 3 |
| Registered Drivers | 4 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 20,000 (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.
Tucson vs. San Diego Neighborhood Comparison
Whether you’re planning a move or just curious about comparing local neighborhoods between Tucson, AZ & San Diego, CA , this guide is designed to help you find a slice of familiarity in a new city. By aligning the unique vibes and features of Tucson neighborhoods with their San Diego counterparts, we aim to ease your transition and spark excitement for your new surroundings.
| Tucson | San Diego | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Samm Hughes | Hillcrest | vibrant, community-focused |
| Armory Park | South Park | historic homes, artsy |
| Catalina Foothills | La Jolla | upscale, picturesque views |
| Rita Ranch | Scripps Ranch | family-friendly, suburban feel |
| El Presidio | Old Town | rich in history, cultural |
| Dove Mountain | Del Mar | luxurious, coastal living |
| Oro Valley | Carmel Valley | modern, family-oriented |
| Tanque Verde | Rancho Santa Fe | secluded, equestrian-friendly |
| Downtown Tucson | Gaslamp Quarter | lively, entertainment hub |
| Vail | Poway | peaceful, outdoor activities |
For those moving from Tucson to San Diego, finding a new neighborhood that resonates with your lifestyle and preferences is paramount. If you cherish the vibrant, close-knit community of Samm Hughes, you'll find a similar vibe in Hillcrest, known for its lively atmosphere and community-focused events. Armory Park's blend of historic charm and its artsy vibe is mirrored in South Park, San Diego, where you can enjoy a stroll past quaint Craftsman homes and frequent unique, local businesses like Kindred or Station Tavern. If the upscale, scenic beauty of Catalina Foothills is what you're leaving behind, La Jolla offers an impressive alternative with its stunning coastal views, high-end dining, and the renowned Scripps Institution of Oceanography. Whether you’re moving for work, family, or adventure, identifying these neighborhood parallels can help you transition smoothly and make San Diego feel like 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 Tucson to San Diego
Moving from one city to another is a significant decision, and each has its distinct lifestyle and opportunities. This comparison aims to provide an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of relocating from Tucson, AZ to San Diego, CA . By examining both sides, you can make the most informed decision for your circumstances.
Tucson, AZ- Higher heat
- Less greenery
- Smaller city vibe
- Fewer job opportunities
- Minimal water activities
San Diego, CA- Milder climate
- Lush landscapes
- Vibrant city life
- More job opportunities
- Beach access
San Diego, CA- Higher expenses
- More crowded
- Less personal feel
- More modern
- Noisier environment
Tucson, AZ- Lower cost of living
- Wide open spaces
- Close-knit community
- Rich cultural history
- Quiet surroundings
Each city offers a unique set of attributes that cater to different preferences and needs. For those moving from Tucson to San Diego, the transition from a desert landscape to coastal surroundings means accessing beautiful beaches like La Jolla Shores and embracing outdoor activities year-round. San Diego's vibrant city life includes areas like Little Italy, known for its culinary scene with establishments like Bencotto Italian Kitchen, and Gaslamp Quarter, famous for its nightlife. However, this comes with the higher living expenses typical of California cities. Moreover, the tighter community feel of Tucson, with its local gems like the Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum, contrasts with the bustling, more impersonal pace of life in a bigger city. Choosing between these cities depends on your preferences for the climate, lifestyle, career opportunities, and social environment.
Tucson vs. San Diego Food Guide
Food deeply influences the local culture and living experience in a city. In this guide, we'll delve into a comparison of the local cuisine between Tucson & San Diego so you can understand the culinary scene awaiting you in your new home.
| Tucson | San Diego | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Sonoran Hot Dog | California Burrito |
| Most popular meat dish | Carne Asada | Fish Tacos |
| Most popular street food item | Taco Grecas | Street Tacos |
| Most popular vegan food | Jackfruit Carnitas | Seaweed Salad |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
Comparing the culinary landscapes of Tucson and San Diego reveals a rich tapestry of flavors indicative of each city's cultural heritage and lifestyle. In Tucson, the influence of Mexican cuisine is undeniable, with the Sonoran Hot Dog standing out as an iconic local favorite alongside taco trucks serving up delectable taco Grecas. San Diego, with its proximity to the sea, leans heavily into seafood, making fish tacos a widespread and beloved meat dish. The city's food scene is vibrant, benefiting from an abundance of food trucks and a health-conscious population that fosters a significant number of vegan-friendly options. You'll find neighborhoods like Little Italy in San Diego, where CUCINA urbana adds a modern twist to Italian classics, and in Tucson, places like El Manantial offer authentic Mexican dishes that are a must-try for any food enthusiast moving to the area.
Tucson vs. San Diego Restaurant Comparison
When making a move, finding local eateries that feel like home is crucial. This comparative guide between Tucson and San Diego restaurants is designed to help you discover your next favorite dining spots, ensuring a seamless culinary transition. Whether you're searching for high-end dining experiences or casual bites, this comparison will serve as your roadmap.
| Tucson | San Diego | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| El Charro Café | Puesto | Authentic tacos and Mexican cuisine with a modern twist, much like El Charro's approach. |
| Café Poca Cosa | Las Cuatro Milpas | Homestyle Mexican fare that captures the essence of Café Poca Cosa's menu. |
| The Grill at Hacienda Del Sol | George's At The Cove | Offers a comparable fine dining experience with spectacular views. |
| Frost Gelato | Bobboi Natural Gelato | Artisanal gelato that rivals the quality and flavor of Frost Gelato. |
| Prep & Pastry | Great Maple | Modern American eatery known for brunch, akin to Prep & Pastry's beloved menu. |
| Penca | Bracero Cocina | Both specialize in upscale, innovative Mexican dishes. |
| Seis Kitchen | Lola 55 | Offers a similar focus on high-quality, authentic street tacos and Mexican cuisine. |
| Boca Tacos y Tequila | Galaxy Taco | Celebrates the craft of Mexican cuisine with a focus on tacos and tequila, akin to Boca. |
| Miss Saigon | Pho Point Loma & Grill | Both are known for their authentic Vietnamese dishes and pho. |
| Reilly Craft Pizza & Drink | Blind Lady Ale House | Both offer a great selection of craft beers and pizzas in a relaxed setting. |
As you transition from Tucson to San Diego, exploring local dining experiences like George's At The Cove will mesmerize you with its stunning ocean views and gourmet offerings, reminiscent of the scenic and culinary pleasures found at The Grill at Hacienda Del Sol. For those who relish authentic Mexican cuisine, stepping into Puesto will evoke the flavors and ambiance of El Charro Café, with both establishments deeply rooted in tradition yet infused with a modern flair. And for gelato enthusiasts, Bobboi Natural Gelato in San Diego stands as a delightful counterpart to Tucson's Frost Gelato, where the passion for artisanal, handcrafted gelato shines through in every scoop. These comparisons only scratch the surface of the gastronomic adventures awaiting you, inviting a seamless transition to your new locale with familiar tastes and new favorites to discover.
Ready to start your move?
Tucson vs. San Diego Real Estate & Living Facts
Real estate plays a pivotal role when considering a move, and understanding how housing aspects stack up between your current city and your potential new home is crucial. By comparing Tucson and San Diego based on housing costs, architecture, and lifestyle , you can make an informed decision on where your next home should be.
| Comparison | Tucson | San Diego |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Spanish Colonial | Modern and Spanish Colonial |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Views, outdoor space | Ocean proximity, amenities |
When examining the housing market of Tucson and San Diego, the stark contrast in median home prices and rent reflects the premium placed on living in a coastal city like San Diego, renowned for its beaches and temperate climate. While both cities enjoy a blend of Spanish Colonial architecture, San Diego also showcases contemporary designs that cater to a modern sensibility. The urban lifestyle in San Diego rates significantly higher, a testament to its vibrant, walkable neighborhoods and comprehensive bike paths. This supports a more dynamic living experience as opposed to Tucson’s more laid-back, spacious character. Considering these aspects can help you decide which city aligns with your lifestyle and financial comfort zone.
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.
Tucson vs. San Diego Weather Considerations
When planning a move from Tucson to San Diego, understanding how the weather compares is crucial. This guide will provide a detailed comparison, highlighting the differences in weather patterns between Tucson and San Diego, to better prepare you for your new environment.
Tucson, AZ
San Diego, CA
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Tucson, AZ
San Diego, CA
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Tucson, AZ
San Diego, CA
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Tucson, AZ
San Diego, CA
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Tucson | San Diego |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Moderate | Good |
| Natural Disasters | Heatwaves, Drought | Earthquakes, Wildfires |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
Moving from Tucson to San Diego, you'll find relief from the scorching summers but will encounter more humidity and slightly cooler winters. While both cities enjoy plenty of sunshine, San Diego offers a more temperate climate with lower high temperatures during summer. The humidity in San Diego is significantly higher, which can affect comfort and may require some acclimatization. Also, the natural disaster risks shift from Tucson's heatwaves and drought to San Diego's earthquakes and wildfires. Understanding these weather differences can help you prepare for a smoother transition and adapt more easily to your new home.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Tucson to San Diego
When planning a move from Tucson, AZ to San Diego, CA, it's crucial to understand how financial aspects will shift. Comparing these aspects ensures you're prepared for the cost of living, taxes, and economic environment differences between Tucson and San Diego.
| Comparison | Tucson | San Diego |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $50,306 | $93,042 |
| Cost of Living Index | 96.5 | 132.3 |
| State Income Tax | 2.59 - 4.50 | 2.59 - 4.50 |
| Avg. Property Tax | 0.84 | 0.76 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 8.7 | 7.75 |
| Top 3 Industries | Aerospace, Education, Healthcare | Defense/Military, Tourism, International Trade |
| Affluence | Moderate | High |
| Poverty | Moderate | Low to moderate |
| Homelessness | Significant | Significant |
Moving from Tucson to San Diego brings a significant change, especially in terms of cost of living and average household income. While both cities share similar state income tax rates, the noticeable difference in sales tax and the higher property tax rate in Tucson contrast with the higher cost of living index in San Diego. The economic landscape shifts too; San Diego thrives due to its defense/military, tourism, and international trade industries, creating a higher average income. However, both cities share challenges such as homelessness, despite San Diego's higher affluence level.
Tucson vs. San Diego Political & Religious Comparison
When considering a move from Tucson, AZ to San Diego, CA, it's essential to understand the communities you'll be joining. This quick comparison offers a snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents between Tucson & San Diego , providing insight into what you can expect from each city.
| Tucson | San Diego | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Leans Liberal | Leans Liberal |
| Local Politics | Democratic-led city council | Democratic mayorship |
| Religion | Christianity is predominant, diverse religious communities including Jewish Community Center | Mixed religious landscape with prominent Christian and San Diego Buddhist Association |
In both Tucson and San Diego, you'll find a political environment that leans liberal, reflected in their local governance—Democratic leadership in city councils and mayoral positions. This might suggest a progressive approach to civic issues and policies that could resonate with you if you lean towards liberal beliefs. Religion in both cities shows diversity, with Christianity being predominant. However, both cities pride themselves on their inclusive religious communities, offering spaces like Tucson's Jewish Community Center and the San Diego Buddhist Association, highlighting the cities' cultural diversity and acceptance of various faiths.
Tucson vs. San Diego Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Understanding the daily commute and traffic is vital for anyone planning to move. This guide offers a comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Tucson & San Diego, helping you anticipate what your travel might look like in these cities.
| Comparison | Tucson | San Diego |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 24.6 | 26.9 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | Possible, but challenging | More feasible, especially in urban areas |
While the average commute time in Tucson is slightly shorter than in San Diego, the differences in traffic congestion and public transit accessibility are significant. Tucson's traffic congestion is considerably lower, making driving a more pleasant experience compared to San Diego's bustling streets. However, San Diego offers a slightly better public transit system, making it easier for residents to navigate the city without a car, especially in well-connected urban areas. In contrast, relying solely on public transit in Tucson might be more challenging due to its limited coverage and schedules. Understanding these nuances will help you better prepare for your daily commute in your new city.
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