Best San Diego to Salinas Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from San Diego to Salinas and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 423 mile long distance California move go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 93 San Diego to Salinas moving companies and more than 20,000 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 - $5,000 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in San Diego compared to Salinas. 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 San Diego to Salinas Moving Companies
(800) 787-5428Cost to Move from San Diego to Salinas
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 423 miles from San Diego, CA to Salinas, CA will cost on average $2,141 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom San Diego to Salinas move is roughly $5,123. 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 | $1,442 | 300 ft³ | 4.81 |
| 1 Bedroom | $2,141 | 450 ft³ | 4.76 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $3,531 | 750 ft³ | 4.71 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $5,123 | 1100 ft³ | 4.66 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $7,372 | 1600 ft³ | 4.61 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $8,204 | 1800 ft³ | 4.56 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Salinas to San Diego guide.
Compare the 5 Best San Diego to Salinas Movers
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
Little Guy Big Truck Moving
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
1st Choice Movers
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
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2776935 / - Not Authorized Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 3 |
| Registered Drivers | 2 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 60,000 (2023) |
24/7 Moving and Storage
2622 Piantino Cir
San Diego, CA, 92108
About 24/7 Moving and Storage
This locally owned and operated moving company has been helping people in the San Diego area move since 2013. 24/7 Moving...
Services
- Local moving services
- Long distance moving services
- Full service packing/moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2707732 / - Not Authorized Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 6 |
| Registered Drivers | 6 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 50,000 (2023) |
Santa Cruz Moving Services
Santa Cruz, CA
About Santa Cruz Moving Services
Santa Cruz Moving Services is a family-owned and operated California moving company providing high-quality services for moves across the street, within...
Services
- Local moving services
- Long-distance moving services
- Cross-country moving services
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2769204 / - Not Authorized Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 4 |
| Registered Drivers | 4 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 10,000 (2018) |
G Brothers Transportation
11455 Wood St # 4
Castroville, CA, 95012
About G Brothers Transportation
G Brothers Transportation is a moving company that offers honest, professional, and reliable services to its customers. The company provides a...
Services
- Home Moves
- Office Moves
- Piano Moves
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2922866 / - Not Authorized Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 3 |
| Registered Drivers | 4 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 39,359 (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.
San Diego vs. Salinas Neighborhood Comparison
Relocating can be daunting, especially when you're not familiar with the new city. To ease this transition, we've conducted a comparison of the local neighborhoods between San Diego, CA & Salinas, CA. This guide will help you find a neighborhood in Salinas that feels like home, utilizing what you love about your San Diego neighborhood as a baseline.
| San Diego | Salinas | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| La Jolla | South Salinas | Upscale, serene living |
| Pacific Beach | North Salinas | Vibrant, young community |
| North Park | CreekBridge | Artistic, family-friendly |
| Hillcrest | Maple Park | Diverse, rich in culture |
| Gaslamp Quarter | Oldtown Salinas | Historic, entertainment hub |
| Little Italy | South Salinas | Gourmet dining, quaint shops |
| Del Mar | Toro Park | Quiet, community-oriented |
| Mission Valley | Laurel West | Shopping, convenient location |
| Carmel Valley | Harrod | Family-friendly, modern living |
| Ocean Beach | Marina | Laid-back, beach vibe |
Moving from San Diego's vibrant and eclectic neighborhoods to Salinas, you'll find a community that resonates with the unique character of your old haunt. For example, if you adored the artistic and community-driven atmosphere of North Park, CreekBridge in Salinas offers a similarly tight-knit environment with family-friendly parks and local art showcases. South Salinas, akin to La Jolla, provides upscale living with a selection of gourmet dining options and boutique shops. For those drawn to the historic charm and bustling nightlife of the Gaslamp Quarter, Oldtown Salinas offers a vibrant scene with festivals, farmers markets, and local theaters like the Western Stage. Each Salinas neighborhood brings a piece of what you loved about San Diego, making your transition as comfortable as possible.
Things to Do in Salinas
Explore Pinnacles National Park.- Enjoy wine tasting at River Road Wine Trail.
- Visit the Monterey County Agricultural & Rural Life Museum.
- Stroll along Salinas River Walk.
- Attend California Rodeo Salinas.
- Shop at Oldtown Salinas.
- Take a class at Heidi’s Studio.
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from San Diego to Salinas
Moving can be a complex decision, filled with various factors to consider. This comparison aims to provide an honest reflection of the good and the bad aspects of relocating from San Diego, CA to Salinas, CA . By examining the cons and pros through the charts below, you'll gain a clearer understanding of what this move entails.
San Diego, CA- Higher living cost
- Heavier traffic
- Warmer winters
Salinas, CA- More affordable housing
- Less traffic
- Cooler summers
Salinas, CA- Quieter nightlife
- No direct beach access
- Smaller food scene
San Diego, CA- Vibrant nightlife
- Beach access
- Diverse restaurants
San Diego is well-known for its sunny beaches, like the iconic La Jolla Shores, offering residents and visitors alike a paradise for surfers and sunbathers. The city boasts a vibrant food scene with famous spots such as Phil's BBQ drawing crowds from all over. In contrast, Salinas, while not offering direct beach access, is a gateway to the beautiful Monterey Peninsula, with cooler summers that are perfect for enjoying the outdoors. Salinas’s downtown area, though smaller, has its charm with local eateries like The Steinbeck House, providing a cozy and historical dining experience. For those looking to escape the fast pace of San Diego for a more laid-back lifestyle, Salinas offers an appealing alternative with its unique blend of agricultural beauty and a growing arts scene.
San Diego vs. Salinas Food Guide
This is a comparison of the local cuisine between San Diego & Salinas, an insight crucial to understanding what living in these areas might taste like. Food not only serves as sustenance but also as a reflection of local culture and lifestyle, offering a glimpse into the daily life of your future home.
| San Diego | Salinas | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Fish Tacos | Artichokes |
| Most popular meat dish | Carne Asada | Tri-tip BBQ |
| Most popular street food item | California Burritos | Fresh Strawberry Cups |
| Most popular vegan food | Avocado Toast | Vegetable Tostadas |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
If you’re moving from San Diego to Salinas, you'll notice a shift in the local cuisine that reflects the agricultural richness of the Salinas Valley. While San Diego boasts a coastal menu with iconic dishes like Fish Tacos and a vibrant street food scene with California Burritos, Salinas offers a bounty of fresh produce, with artichokes being a celebrated local crop. You might find yourself enjoying fresh strawberry cups from roadside stands or savoring tri-tip at a local BBQ spot. Iconic spots such as Old Fisherman's Grotto reflect the area's rich history and connection to the sea. Both cities take pride in their food scene, but moving to Salinas will introduce you to a more produce-centric diet, highlighting the freshest ingredients from the "Salad Bowl of the World."
San Diego vs. Salinas Restaurant Comparison
Discovering the culinary delights of a new city is key to making it feel like home. This San Diego to Salinas restaurant comparison will help you find similar dining experiences in your new locale, ensuring your transition is as delicious as possible. Let's dive into the vibrant food scenes of both cities.
| San Diego | Salinas | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Juniper & Ivy | Giorgio's | Fine dining with innovative dishes. |
| Phil's BBQ | Salinas City BBQ | Homestyle BBQ with a local twist. |
| Hodad's | Gino's | Burgers and shakes in a laid-back atmosphere. |
| Ironside Fish & Oyster | Monterey Coast Brewing | Seafood and craft beers. |
| The Cottage La Jolla | First Awakenings | Cozy brunch spot with fresh flavors. |
| Buona Forchetta | Patria | Italian cuisine with a rustic charm. |
| Mister A's | The Grower's Pub | Upscale dining with a historic vibe. |
| CUCINA urbana | Eagle Restaurant | Contemporary eats with a creative twist. |
| Oscar's Mexican Seafood | Mariscos El Camaron | Authentic Mexican seafood. |
| Extraordinary Desserts | Dessert Island | Sweet treats and unique creations. |
While the ambiance and menu items might vary slightly from San Diego's Juniper & Ivy to Salinas' Giorgio's, both establishments offer fine dining experiences with an emphasis on innovative and beautifully presented dishes. In contrast, if you're yearning for the homestyle BBQ flavors reminiscent of Phil's BBQ, Salinas City BBQ fills that niche with its own local twist and hearty offerings. For seafood lovers, swapping Ironside Fish & Oyster's oceanic menu for the fresh catches and craft beers at Monterey Coast Brewing ensures you'll still enjoy high-quality seafood with a side of local charm. It's not just about finding a place to eat; it's about discovering spaces that resonate with your culinary preferences, ensuring your transition to Salinas is both comfortable and delectable.
Ready to start your move?
San Diego vs. Salinas Real Estate & Living Facts
When planning a move, comparing the real estate landscape is crucial for a smooth transition. Real estate comparison between San Diego, CA and Salinas, CA offers insights into housing costs, architecture, and lifestyle, guiding your decision-making process.
| Comparison | San Diego | Salinas |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Spanish Colonial | Modern and Ranch |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Ocean Views, Outdoor Living | Agricultural Opportunities, Family Communities |
The housing statistics indicate that San Diego tends to be more expensive, both in purchasing homes and in renting, reflecting its premium coastal location and vibrant urban lifestyle. San Diego's Spanish Colonial architecture contributes to its unique charm, while Salinas offers a mix of modern and ranch styles, catering to diverse tastes and emphasizing its rich agricultural landscape. Despite Salinas having a lower walkability and bikeability score, its appeal lies in its more affordable housing options and the promise of a community-centric lifestyle, making it an attractive option for families and individuals looking to be part of close-knit communities.
Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Salinas, CA
1. South Salinas: Known for its family-friendly atmosphere, South Salinas offers several parks and open spaces where your pets can enjoy a walk, including the popular Central Park where dogs can roam freely in designated off-leash areas.
2. CreekBridge: This neighborhood is recognized for its walkable paths and proximity to the Natividad Creek Park, a beautiful place for dog owners looking for scenic walks and outdoor activities to enjoy with their furry friends.
3. Laurelwood: Laurelwood stands out for its quiet streets and access to pet-friendly facilities, including several dog parks and the nearby Petco for all your pet's needs, making it a convenient and pleasant neighborhood for pet owners.
San Diego vs. Salinas Weather Considerations
When planning a move from San Diego to Salinas, understanding how the weather compares between these two cities is crucial. Differences in climate can influence not only your day-to-day comfort but also your lifestyle and health. This comparison aims to provide a clear picture of what changes you might expect in your new home.
San Diego, CA
Salinas, CA
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
San Diego, CA
Salinas, CA
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
San Diego, CA
Salinas, CA
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
San Diego, CA
Salinas, CA
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | San Diego | Salinas |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Good | Good to Moderate |
| Natural Disasters | Wildfires, Earthquakes | Earthquakes, Floods |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
While both San Diego and Salinas enjoy mild climates and abundant sunshine, there are noteworthy differences. Salinas has cooler summers and slightly more rain, contributing to its lush landscapes. The higher humidity in Salinas might be a minor adjustment, enhancing the area's agricultural productivity but possibly affecting those sensitive to humidity. Considering air quality, Salinas varies from good to moderate, potentially impacting those with respiratory conditions. Regardless of these differences, both cities offer climates that many find desirable, particularly if you enjoy outdoor activities year-round.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from San Diego to Salinas
When considering a move from San Diego, CA to Salinas, CA, it's crucial to weigh the financial implications. Understanding how costs of living, taxes, and job opportunities compare between San Diego and Salinas can help you make an informed decision and plan your budget accordingly.
| Comparison | San Diego | Salinas |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $93,042 | $80,154 |
| Cost of Living Index | 132.3 | 136.4 |
| State Income Tax | 13.3 (Top Rate) | 13.3 (Top Rate) |
| Avg. Property Tax | 0.76 | 0.73 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 7.75 | 9.25 |
| Top 3 Industries | Military, International Trade, Research | Agriculture, Manufacturing, Retail |
| Affluence | Moderate | Lower-Moderate |
| Poverty | Low | High |
| Homelessness | High | Medium |
Moving from San Diego to Salinas, you'll notice that the average household income is a bit lower in Salinas, reflecting the slight differences in economic conditions. Despite a lower cost of living index in Salinas, the higher sales tax rate hints at slightly increased everyday expenses. Both cities share the state's top income tax rate, but Salinas stands out with its dominant agriculture industry, an essential factor to consider if you're involved in this sector. Meanwhile, San Diego's diverse economy with strengths in military and research sectors offers a different set of job opportunities. Salinas exhibits a higher poverty rate which is an important factor to consider from a socio-economic standpoint.
San Diego vs. Salinas Political & Religious Comparison
This comparison aims to offer you a quick snapshot into the different lives you might lead in San Diego and Salinas, by focusing on the political and religious makeup of San Diego & Salinas. Understanding these aspects can help you better integrate into your new community.
| San Diego | Salinas | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Lean Democratic | Strongly Democratic |
| Local Politics | Focus on military, tourism | Agricultural interests dominate |
| Religion | Diverse, incl. Catholic, Protestant | Primarily Catholic |
Understanding the differences in political and religious contexts between your current home in San Diego and your future home in Salinas is essential for a smoother transition. San Diego has a slight democratic lean but prides itself on a balanced representation of various views, heavily influenced by its significant military presence and booming tourism sector. Salinas, in contrast, has a more pronounced Democratic lean, with local politics heavily swayed by its status as an agricultural powerhouse. When it comes to religion, both cities have a strong Catholic presence, although San Diego offers a bit more diversity in religious affiliations, reflecting its larger population and cosmopolitan nature. By keeping these differences in mind, you can foster a deeper understanding and appreciation of the local cultures and communities that await you.
San Diego vs. Salinas Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Understanding the daily commute and the differences in traffic and transportation options between San Diego & Salinas is crucial for anyone planning to move. This comparison will give you a clearer idea of what to expect on a daily basis, helping you navigate your new home more effectively.
| Comparison | San Diego | Salinas |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 24.7 | 23.5 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | Possible but challenging | Difficult |
When considering a move from San Diego to Salinas, it's important to note the slight difference in average commute times, with Salinas offering a marginally quicker daily trip. Traffic congestion in San Diego is notably higher due to its larger population and urban sprawl. In contrast, Salinas, while still experiencing its share of traffic, is generally smoother with less congestion. Public transit options are fairly accessible in both cities, but San Diego provides a broader network due to its size and the existence of the San Diego Metropolitan Transit System, making it somewhat easier to get around without a car compared to Salinas. However, in both cities, having a vehicle enhances mobility and access to various amenities.
Additional Resources
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