Best Long Beach to San Diego Movers + Moving Guide

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If you're moving from Long Beach to San Diego and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 106 mile long distance California move go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 129 Long Beach 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 Little Guy Big Truck Moving), how much the move costs (approximately $1,500 - $4,500 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Long Beach 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.

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Best Long Beach to San Diego Moving Companies

RankCompany NameRating QuestionAffordability IndexContact
1Little Guy Big Truck Moving9.699.81Contact
2The Small Delivery Co.9.689.77Contact
3Florez Elite Moving, Inc.9.679.56Contact
4Pure Moving Company9.649.48Contact
51st Choice Movers9.629.7Contact
Phone (800) 787-5428

Cost to Move from Long Beach to San Diego

Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 106 miles from Long Beach, CA to San Diego, CA will cost on average $1,871 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Long Beach to San Diego move is roughly $4,464. 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 SizeMoving CostVolume of Packed Items (ft³)$/ft³
Studio$1,263300 ft³4.21
1 Bedroom$1,871450 ft³4.16
2 Bedrooms$3,081750 ft³4.11
3 Bedrooms$4,4641100 ft³4.06
4 Bedrooms$6,4141600 ft³4.01
5+ Bedrooms$7,1251800 ft³3.96
*Please note: These California to California moving prices are rough approximations based upon nationwide data as well as local and statewide data from California & California. The volume listed here represents the estimated cubic footage of your household items when packed and loaded into a moving truck. To determine the exact costs associated with your move, get a quote from a licensed CA to CA mover.
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from San Diego to Long Beach guide.

Compare the 5 Best Long Beach to San Diego Movers

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

Little Guy Big Truck Moving Logo

Little Guy Big Truck Moving

Exceptional9.69/10
based on 1,836+ data points

National City, CA

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 affordable...

Services

  • Affordable fast friendly movers
  • Local and long distance moving
  • Fully licensed and insured
View Full Review
1
The Small Delivery Co. Logo

The Small Delivery Co.

Exceptional9.68/10
based on 2,956+ data points

3520 Overland Ave

Los Angeles, CA, 90034

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...

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

Circle X Mark
Not Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/10/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2690366 / -

Not Authorized

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans1
Registered Drivers1
Total Annual Miles Moved-
View Full Review
2
Florez Elite Moving, Inc. Logo

Florez Elite Moving, Inc.

Exceptional9.67/10
based on 1,468+ data points

9357 Kruse Rd

Pico Rivera, CA, 90660

About Florez Elite Moving, Inc.

Florez Elite Moving, Inc. believes that moving is more than just a moment in life; it’s a memory and an adventure....

Services

  • Packing
  • Household moving
  • Office moving

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/10/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

1859130 / 672714

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans1
Registered Drivers1
Total Annual Miles Moved23,000 (2023)
View Full Review
3
Pure Moving Company Logo

Pure Moving Company

Exceptional9.64/10
based on 13,018+ data points

1601 N Gower St # 205

Los Angeles, CA, 90028

About Pure Moving Company

Established in 2010 in Los Angeles, Pure Moving Company is a trusted name in the moving industry. With several locations across...

Services

  • Local Moving
  • Long distance Moving
  • Commercial Moving

Interstate Moving License

Circle X Mark
Not Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/9/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3980623 / -

Not Authorized

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans2
Registered Drivers2
Total Annual Miles Moved-
View Full Review
4
1st Choice Movers Logo

1st Choice Movers

Exceptional9.62/10
based on 5,824+ data points

8250 Miramar Mall

San Diego, CA, 92121

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...

Services

  • Local moving services
  • Long-distance moving services
  • Cross-country moving services

Interstate Moving License

Circle X Mark
Not Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/9/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2776935 / -

Not Authorized

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans3
Registered Drivers2
Total Annual Miles Moved60,000 (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.

Long Beach vs. San Diego Neighborhood Comparison

Moving from one vibrant city to another can be exhilarating yet daunting. This guide is designed to compare the local neighborhoods between Long Beach, CA & San Diego, CA , making it easier for you to find your new favorite spots and communities. Whether you cherish the lively streets, tranquil parks, or unique dining experiences of your Long Beach neighborhood, we aim to match you with a San Diego neighborhood that offers a similar vibe and lifestyle.

Long BeachSan DiegoHow They're Similar
Bixby KnollsNorth ParkArtistic & vibrant community
Belmont ShoreLa JollaScenic beaches & upscale dining
The HeightsHillcrestDiverse culture & vibrant nightlife
Downtown Long BeachGaslamp QuarterRich history & thriving nightlife
El Dorado ParkBalboa ParkExpansive parks & cultural institutions
NaplesCoronadoWaterfront views & quaint charm
Bluff ParkPoint LomaSpectacular ocean views & serene atmosphere
Alamitos BeachPacific BeachLively beach culture & night scene
Lakewood VillageClairemontFamily-friendly & suburban feel
Signal HillUniversity HeightsPanoramic views & hip vibe

Things To Do background image

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 Long Beach to San Diego

Moving from one city to another can be a monumental decision. This comparison aims to provide an honest reflection of the good and bad attributes of relocating from Long Beach, CA to San Diego, CA . By evaluating both sides, you can make a more informed decision about your next big move.

CONs
PROs
Long Beach, CA iconLong Beach, CA
  • Higher crime rates
  • Denser traffic
  • Fewer beaches
  • Limited cultural venues
San Diego, CA iconSan Diego, CA
  • Lower crime rates
  • Smother traffic flow
  • More beach options
  • Richer cultural scene
San Diego, CA iconSan Diego, CA
  • Quieter nightlife
  • Further from LA
  • Higher housing costs
  • Lesser dining diversity
Long Beach, CA iconLong Beach, CA
  • Vibrant nightlife
  • Proximity to LA
  • Affordable housing
  • Diverse dining options

Moving from Long Beach to San Diego presents an opportunity for a lifestyle upgrade in many ways, but it's not without its trade-offs. For instance, San Diego's lower crime rates and smoother traffic flow contribute to a higher quality of living. Notable cultural venues in San Diego like the San Diego Museum of Art and the vibrant scenes in neighborhoods such as Little Italy and the Gaslamp Quarter enrich residents' social and cultural life. On the flip side, Long Beach's closer proximity to Los Angeles and its vibrant nightlife, including establishments like The Blind Donkey, offer a unique charm that you might miss after the move. Moreover, while Long Beach provides more affordable housing options, the higher housing costs in San Diego reflect its desirability and waterfront premium. It's about weighing these factors according to your lifestyle preferences.

Long Beach vs. San Diego Food Guide

Understanding the essence of local cuisines can deeply enrich your relocation experience. Food isn't just sustenance; it's a vibrant expression of culture and lifestyle. In this guide, we offer a comparison of the local cuisine between Long Beach & San Diego to provide insights into the culinary landscapes awaiting you.

Long BeachSan Diego
Most iconic local food itemSourdough BreadCalifornia Burrito
Most popular meat dishBBQ RibsCarne Asada
Most popular street food itemStreet TacosFish Tacos
Most popular vegan foodVegan RamenVegan Mexican Bowl
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
  • Park's BBQ
  • James Republic
  • The Attic
  • Hodad's
  • Phil's BBQ
  • Cucina Urbana
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
Abundance of Food Trucks🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
Foodie Scene🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

When exploring San Diego's food scene, you'll be greeted by a dynamic blend of Mexican and American cuisines, epitomized by the beloved California Burrito—a local incarnation that effortlessly marries savory carne asada with crisp french fries. Venture into neighborhoods like Ocean Beach to savor a classic at Hodad's, or explore the trendy settings of Hillcrest for innovative plant-based dishes. With a robust food truck culture, San Diego invites you to join spontaneous gastronomic discoveries, further enriched by a community that places a high value on fitness and health-conscious lifestyle choices. Here, culinary tradition and contemporary flair coexist, promising an exciting journey for your palate.

Long Beach vs. San Diego Restaurant Comparison

Finding a new favorite spot to dine is key to making any new city feel like home. This restaurant comparison will provide insight for those moving from Long Beach to San Diego, making the transition smoother by highlighting where to find culinary delights that mirror their old haunts. Whether you’re in search of a cozy café, an upscale dining experience, or a casual eatery, this guide aims to help you discover your new go-to spots.

Long BeachSan DiegoWhat You'll Love
James RepublicCucina UrbanaSimilar farm-to-table dining experience.
The AtticGreat MapleBoth known for modern American comfort food and unique twists on classics.
Parkers’ LighthousePoint Loma SeafoodsBoth specialize in offering the freshest seafood with stunning views.
Fuego at the MayaCoasterraBoth offer an exceptional waterside dining experience with a focus on Mexican cuisine.
Michael’s on Naples RistoranteBencotto Italian KitchenBoth are celebrated for their authentic and inventive Italian dishes.
Roe SeafoodIronside Fish & OysterOffering high-quality, sustainably sourced seafood dishes in unique settings.
Beachwood BBQ & BrewingBallast Point Brewing MiramarBoth are known for craft beers and hearty, upscale pub fare.
4th Street VineVino CartaBoth wine bars are appreciated for their carefully curated wine lists and relaxed atmospheres.
Sura Korean BBQ & Tofu HouseConvoy Tofu HouseBoth specialize in Korean cuisine, offering a wide range of traditional dishes.
Long Beach CafeCafe 21 GaslampBoth are beloved for their all-day breakfast and homestyle dishes, making them perfect for any meal of the day.

As you make the move from Long Beach to San Diego, it’s comforting to know that your culinary cravings won’t go unsatisfied. At Cucina Urbana, you'll find a dynamic atmosphere paired with a farm-to-table experience reminiscent of James Republic. For those missing the cozy vibe and innovative American cuisine of The Attic, Great Maple awaits with its unique offerings and stylish, inviting décor. Seafood enthusiasts will find solace in Point Loma Seafoods, where the essence of Parkers’ Lighthouse is mirrored through exceptional ocean fare. And when a craving for craft beer and barbecue hits, Ballast Point Brewing Miramar stands out not just for its brews but for a gastropub menu that would give Beachwood BBQ & Brewing a run for its money. Each San Diego counterpart offers a unique yet familiar dining experience, ensuring you'll quickly find new favorites to call your own.

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Ready to start your move?

Long Beach vs. San Diego Real Estate & Living Facts

When contemplating a move, it's crucial to weigh the real estate options and lifestyle differences between your current and future homes. This comparison between Long Beach and San Diego delves deep into the fabric of each city's housing market, providing insights that could sway your decision.

ComparisonLong BeachSan Diego
Typical Architecture StyleSpanish Colonial, ModernSpanish Colonial, Craftsman
Walkability 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listingProximity to the ocean, gardensOcean views, high-end kitchens

The decision between Long Beach and San Diego can be nuanced, hinging not just on median home prices and rent, which are slightly higher in San Diego, but also on lifestyle preferences. Long Beach boasts better walkability and bikeability, indicating a more condensed urban experience, potentially reducing the need for a car. Both cities share a love for Spanish Colonial architecture, yet San Diego tends more towards Craftsman style. If your heart is set on ocean views and gourmet kitchens, San Diego listings may pique your interest more. However, for those valuing proximity to the ocean and urban gardening opportunities, Long Beach could feel more like 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.

Long Beach vs. San Diego Weather Considerations

When planning a move from Long Beach, CA to San Diego, CA, it’s crucial to understand how the weather contrast between these two locations will affect your lifestyle. This comparison will ensure you’re well-prepared for the climatic changes that await.

Summer icon
83° / 64°

Long Beach, CA

77° / 66°

San Diego, CA

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
68° / 46°

Long Beach, CA

66° / 50°

San Diego, CA

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
14

Long Beach, CA

10

San Diego, CA

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
0

Long Beach, CA

0

San Diego, CA

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

ComparisonLong BeachSan Diego
Air QualityModerateGood
Natural DisastersEarthquakes, WildfiresEarthquakes, Wildfires
Days of Sunshine per Year☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. UV Index🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Avg. Annual Humidity💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦

While both Long Beach and San Diego enjoy a year-round temperate climate, there are subtle differences you should note. The slightly cooler summers and warmer winters in San Diego can make it more comfortable for those sensitive to extreme temperatures. Additionally, San Diego's superior air quality could be a significant advantage for people concerned about respiratory issues or looking for a cleaner environment. However, it's essential to consider that both cities experience similar natural disasters, such as earthquakes and wildfires, which calls for preparedness in either location.

Ready to start your move?

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

Moving from one city to another involves understanding numerous aspects, especially when it comes to finances. It’s crucial to compare the costs that you’ll face in your new home. This comparison will help you gauge how your expenses on household income, cost of living, taxes, and housing in Long Beach versus San Diego will change, ensuring a smoother transition.

ComparisonLong BeachSan Diego
Avg. Household Income$73,905$93,042
Cost of Living Index136.4132.3
State Income Tax9.39.3
Avg. Property Tax0.720.76
Avg. Sales Tax10.257.75
Top 3 IndustriesManufacturing, Education, Health ServicesDefense/Military, Tourism, International Trade
AffluenceModerateHigh
PovertyLowLow
HomelessnessNoticeableSignificant

While both cities showcase the vibrant lifestyle of Southern California, the financial landscapes are distinct. For instance, the average household income in San Diego is higher than in Long Beach, which can be enticing. However, this is coupled with a higher cost of living index in San Diego, meaning your income might not stretch as far as expected. Property and sales tax rates also differ, reflecting the diverse economic policies of each city. These variations emphasize the importance of understanding not just the surface level salary figures but how they align with the overarching costs and living standards in your new city.

Long Beach vs. San Diego Political & Religious Comparison

When planning a move from Long Beach to San Diego, understanding the community you're transitioning into is crucial. This analysis provides a quick, at-a-glance snapshot to help you grasp the political and religious makeup between Long Beach & San Diego, highlighting how these aspects shape each city's unique character.

Long BeachSan Diego
Political Make-upLean LiberalLean Liberal
Local PoliticsDemocratic dominance in city councilDemocratic majority in city governance
ReligionMixed with a significant number of non-affiliated individualsVaried, with a strong presence of non-denominational and Catholic communities

In moving from Long Beach to San Diego, you'll find both cities have a liberal-leaning political climate, though the expression of these leanings can vary in local governance and public policy. Local politics in both cities are predominantly under Democratic control, reflecting a progressive approach to issues like climate change, healthcare, and social justice. Religiously, while both cities exhibit a rich mosaic of faiths, San Diego showcases a more pronounced presence of non-denominational Christian and Catholic communities, facilitated by institutions like the Rock Church and the Roman Catholic Diocese of San Diego. This religious landscape contributes to the diverse cultural fabric that new residents can look forward to being a part of.

Long Beach vs. San Diego Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

Moving from Long Beach, CA to San Diego, CA requires understanding the differences in daily commuting and traffic. This comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Long Beach & San Diego is designed to help you better navigate your new city.

ComparisonLong BeachSan Diego
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)3025
Traffic Congestion 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦
Availability of Public Transit 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇
Can you get by without car?Possible with planningChallenging

While both Long Beach and San Diego offer vibrant city lives and beautiful coastal views, getting around can differ significantly. Long Beach's average commute time is slightly longer than in San Diego, but both cities face their share of traffic congestion. Public transit options are equally rated; however, the experience might vary based on your specific needs and destinations within each city. Living without a car is more feasible in Long Beach, thanks to its compact urban layout and broader public transit network, while in San Diego, this could present more of a challenge, making vehicle ownership or frequent rideshare use more necessary.

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