Best San Diego to Cary Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from San Diego to Cary and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 2,561 mile move from California to North Carolina go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 32 San Diego to Cary 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 - $9,500 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in San Diego compared to Cary. 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 Cary 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 | Raleigh Moving Company | 9.42 | 9.6 | Active | Contact |
| 4 | Athens Moving Experts | 9.34 | 9.49 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 5 | Atlas Transfer & Storage Co. | 8.94 | 8.13 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
(800) 787-5428Cost to Move from San Diego to Cary
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 2,561 miles from San Diego, CA to Cary, NC will cost on average $3,959 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom San Diego to Cary move is roughly $9,568. 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 | $2,654 | 300 ft³ | 8.85 |
| 1 Bedroom | $3,959 | 450 ft³ | 8.80 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $6,561 | 750 ft³ | 8.75 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $9,568 | 1100 ft³ | 8.70 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $13,837 | 1600 ft³ | 8.65 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $15,476 | 1800 ft³ | 8.60 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Cary to San Diego guide.
Compare the 5 Best San Diego to Cary 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) |
Raleigh Moving Company
Raleigh, NC, 27609
About Raleigh Moving Company
Raleigh Moving Company is a locally owned and operated moving company offering residential and commercial services for local and long-distance moves...
Services
- Free estimates
- Full Value Protection (FVP)
- Fully licensed and insured
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3344628 / - Active Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 1 |
| Registered Drivers | 2 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | - |
Athens Moving Experts
This listing has been claimed by Athens Moving Experts6601 Hillsborough St # 111
Raleigh, NC, 27606
About Athens Moving Experts
Since 2015, Athens Moving Experts has helped Raleigh, Chapel Hill, Holly Springs, and communities across North Carolina with their residential and...
Services
- Local Moving Services
- Long Distance Moving Services
- Commercial Moving Services
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3205320 / 204920 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 5 |
| Registered Drivers | 5 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 25,000 (2021) |
Atlas Transfer & Storage Co.
13026 Stowe Dr A
Poway, CA, 92064
About Atlas Transfer & Storage Co.
Founded in 1925, Atlas Transfer & Storage Company has been serving Southern California for over 95 years. This family-owned and operated...
Services
- Long Distance Moving
- International Moving
- Storage Services
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 877737 / 383831 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 1 |
| Registered Drivers | 4 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 8,778 (2022) |
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. Cary Neighborhood Comparison
Moving to a new city is an adventure, especially when you're not familiar with the local neighborhoods. To ease this transition, we've created a guide that compares local neighborhoods between San Diego, CA & Cary, NC. This comparison will help you quickly familiarize yourself with an unknown city by comparing it to what you already know. Whether you're seeking a vibrant community or a quiet retreat, this comparison aims to match your preferences with your new home in Cary.
| San Diego | Cary | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| La Jolla | Preston | Upscale living, golf community |
| North Park | Downtown Cary | Artsy, cultural hub |
| Pacific Beach | Lochmere | Waterfront activities, family-friendly |
| Hillcrest | MacGregor Downs | Diverse community, close to amenities |
| Gaslamp Quarter | Amberly | Vibrant nightlife, walkable |
| Little Italy | Weston Pointe | Culinary scene, charming |
| Del Mar | Carpenter Village | Quiet, upscale, family-oriented |
| Ocean Beach | Lake Pine | Laid back, community feel |
| Coronado | Wellsley | Exclusive, family-friendly with parks |
| Point Loma | Highcroft | Scenic views, nature trails |
In exploring these neighborhoods, you'll discover that Downtown Cary shares North Park's devotion to arts and culture, with local highlights including The Cary Theater and Downtown Cary Festivals. If you're drawn to the vibrant community and waterfront activities of Pacific Beach, Lochmere presents an enticing alternative with its serene lake views and active neighborhood events. For those enchanted by the culinary dynamism and Italian flair of Little Italy, Weston Pointe offers a captivating dining scene highlighted by favorites like CinéBistro for an upscale movie and dining experience. Through this guide, we aim to make your transition as smooth as possible, connecting you with neighborhoods in Cary that resonate with the essence of your favorite spots in San Diego.
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from San Diego to Cary
Moving from San Diego, CA to Cary, NC offers a chance to reflect on what you're leaving behind and what awaits. This comparison aims to provide an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of this relocation, helping you weigh your decision carefully. The charts below will highlight the cons of leaving San Diego and the benefits of moving to Cary, as well as the advantages of San Diego living against the drawbacks of Cary.
San Diego, CA- Higher living costs
- Heavy traffic
- Less seasons
Cary, NC- Lower living costs
- Less traffic
- Distinct seasons
Cary, NC- Fewer beaches
- Quieter nightlife
- More varied weather
San Diego, CA- Beautiful beaches
- Vibrant nightlife
- Year-round sunshine
While San Diego is famed for its breathtaking beaches such as La Jolla Cove and a vibrant nightlife with countless bars and restaurants in the Gaslamp Quarter, you might find Cary's offerings different but equally enticing. Cary boasts beautiful green spaces like Fred G. Bond Metro Park, offering a tranquil escape with trails, picnic spots, and boating opportunities. The town's downtown area may have a quieter nightlife compared to San Diego, but it has a growing food scene with gems like Ashworth Drugs for a classic soda shop experience and Poole's Diner in nearby Raleigh for upscale comfort food. Despite the difference in weather patterns, those moving from San Diego to Cary will find the distinct seasons bring their own beauty, from vibrant fall leaves to spring blossoms.
San Diego vs. Cary Food Guide
Food deeply enriches the cultural experience of living in a new area. Through this comparison of the local cuisine between San Diego & Cary, you'll gain insights into the culinary scenes of both destinations, helping you navigate your upcoming move.
| San Diego | Cary | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Fish Tacos | North Carolina BBQ |
| Most popular meat dish | Carne Asada | Pulled Pork |
| Most popular street food item | California Burrito | Fried Pickles |
| Most popular vegan food | Avocado Toast | Barbecue Jackfruit |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
In San Diego, the food scene is vibrant and diverse, with areas like Little Italy and the Gaslamp Quarter offering an array of culinary delights. Fish Tacos and California Burritos reflect the city's love for Mexican-inspired cuisine, readily available at beachside shacks or bustling food trucks. Iconic restaurants such as Hodad's serve up some of the best burgers in a laid-back, surf-inspired atmosphere, while Phil's BBQ is a go-to for meat lovers. Conversely, Cary showcases Southern hospitality through its food, with places like Lucky 32 Southern Kitchen giving you a taste of traditional North Carolina flavors. The shift from San Diego's seafood and Mexican cuisine to Cary's barbecue and Southern comfort food marks a significant culinary transition, yet both cities boast an active foodie scene that caters to a range of dietary preferences.
San Diego vs. Cary Restaurant Comparison
Finding your new favorite eatery is key to feeling at home in a new city. This guide compares restaurants from San Diego, CA, to those in Cary, NC, to help you discover places where you can enjoy similar vibes and dishes. By using your current hometown favorites as a guide, we aim to make your transition smoother and tastier.
| San Diego | Cary | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Juniper & Ivy | Herons | High-end dining with creative American cuisine |
| Hodad's | Corbett's Burgers & Soda Bar | Classic burgers with a nostalgic feel |
| Phil's BBQ | Danny's Bar-B-Que | Authentic, smokey BBQ flavors |
| Richard Walker's Pancake House | First Watch | Breakfast and brunch with an innovative twist |
| Cucina Urbana | Academy Street Bistro | Italian cuisine with a local, farm-to-table approach |
| Oscar's Mexican Seafood | Chuy's | Fresh Tex-Mex with a fun atmosphere |
| The Crack Shack | BBQ Chicken | Korean fried chicken that offers a unique and flavorful twist |
| La Puerta | Torcida Taqueria | Authentic Mexican flavors and street-style tacos |
| Mister A's | Prestonwood Country Club | Elegant setting and fine dining, membership required |
| Extraordinary Desserts | La Farm Bakery | European-style desserts with an artisan touch |
When diving deeper into the dining experiences, places like Herons in Cary offer a luxurious dining atmosphere akin to Juniper & Ivy's in San Diego, but with a unique Southern charm and an emphasis on local ingredients that North Carolina is known for. For those missing the casual, beach vibe of Oscar's Mexican Seafood, Chuy's in Cary brings a fun Tex-Mex flair and the same commitment to fresh, quality ingredients. Meanwhile, BBQ lovers transitioning from Phil's BBQ will find solace and satisfaction at Danny's Bar-B-Que, where the smoked meats and down-to-earth atmosphere resonate with San Diego's best. This demonstrates how, whether you're seeking high-end dining or craving casual eats, Cary's diverse culinary scene offers a welcoming taste of home.
Ready to start your move?
San Diego vs. Cary Real Estate & Living Facts
When planning your move, comparing real estate aspects between San Diego, CA and Cary, NC , is crucial. By doing so, you'll gain insights into how your lifestyle preferences and budget align with what each city offers. This comparison will help ensure your next home feels just right.
| Comparison | San Diego | Cary |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Spanish Colonial, Modern | Colonial, Craftsman |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Views, Outdoor Living Spaces | Family-friendly, Quiet Neighborhoods |
In deeper detail, the San Diego housing market is marked by its higher median home prices and monthly rents, reflecting the city's vibrant urban lifestyle and desirable coastal location. San Diego homes often promote their stunning ocean views and seamless indoor-outdoor living spaces, catering to those who value the natural beauty and temperate climate of Southern California. On the other hand, Cary offers a more affordable entry point into homeownership or renting, along with an emphasis on family-friendly living and quiet, well-kept neighborhoods. Its real estate listings frequently highlight community-focused features and a slower pace of life, making it an attractive option for people seeking a balance between urban conveniences and suburban tranquility.
Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Cary, NC
1. Preston: This neighborhood is known for its picturesque walking paths and local parks, perfect for morning walks or jogs with your furry friends.
2. Lochmere: Offering you access to several greenways and the Hemlock Bluffs Nature Preserve, it’s a paradise for pets who love outdoor adventures.
3. Carpenter Village: With its close-knit community feel, pet-friendly amenities, and a dedicated dog park, it’s an ideal spot for pet owners looking for a supportive neighborhood environment.
San Diego vs. Cary Weather Considerations
Moving from one city to another, it's essential to compare the climates you'll experience. This guide focuses on the weather differences between San Diego and Cary, providing a clear understanding of what to expect. Whether you're worried about humidity, sunshine, or seasonal allergies, our comparison will help you prepare for your new home environment.
San Diego, CA
Cary, NC
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
San Diego, CA
Cary, NC
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
San Diego, CA
Cary, NC
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
San Diego, CA
Cary, NC
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | San Diego | Cary |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Good | Moderate |
| Natural Disasters | Earthquakes, Wildfires | Hurricanes, Tornadoes |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
When moving from San Diego to Cary, you'll note significant differences in climate patterns. While San Diego is renowned for its mild year-round temperatures and abundant sunshine, Cary presents more distinct seasons with higher humidity and increased rainfall. This results in Cary having a lush, green landscape contrasting San Diego's more arid scenery. Seasonal allergies are common in both cities due to pollen, but Cary's higher humidity might exacerbate these conditions for some. Understanding these variances will help you adapt more comfortably to your new surroundings.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from San Diego to Cary
When considering a move from San Diego, CA to Cary, NC, it's essential to grasp the differences in financial and economic factors you'll encounter. Understanding these variations can significantly affect your budgeting and lifestyle in your new home.
| Comparison | San Diego | Cary |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $93,042 | $123,857 |
| Cost of Living Index | 132.3 | 95.85 |
| State Income Tax | 13.3% | 5.25% |
| Avg. Property Tax | 0.76% | 0.86% |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 7.75% | 7.25% |
| Top 3 Industries | Military, International Trade, Research | Technology, Healthcare, Education |
| Affluence | Moderately Affluent | Highly Affluent |
| Poverty | Moderate | Low |
| Homelessness | High | Low |
While both San Diego and Cary are desirable locations, Cary tends to lead in terms of financial attractivity for many. The average household income in Cary is significantly higher than in San Diego, coupled with a substantially lower cost of living index, indicating that your dollar might stretch further in Cary. Furthermore, North Carolina's lower state income tax at 5.25% compared to California's high 13.3% could result in significant annual savings. Moreover, Cary's robust technology, healthcare, and education industries offer diverse employment opportunities, perhaps making it an ideal place for both your career and your wallet.
San Diego vs. Cary Political & Religious Comparison
This guide offers a quick comparison of the political and religious landscapes between San Diego & Cary , providing insight into the communities you're moving from and to. This overview aims to give you a foundational understanding of the local culture and societal makeup of each city.
| San Diego | Cary | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Lean Democratic | Moderately Democratic |
| Local Politics | High engagement in urban development issues | Strong focus on community services and growth management |
| Religion | Diverse religious landscape with a notable Catholic presence | Diverse, with a significant Protestant presence |
When moving from San Diego to Cary, you'll find both cities share a tendency toward Democratic political leanings, though Cary might present a more moderate stance in comparison. San Diego's political discussions often revolve around urban development and coastal preservation, reflecting its geographical and social diversity. In contrast, Cary's local politics prioritize community services and managing suburban growth, aiming to maintain its reputation for high quality of life amidst rapid development. The religious landscapes of both cities are diverse, with a notable Catholic presence in San Diego and a significant Protestant presence in Cary, reflecting the broader religious composition of their respective states.
San Diego vs. Cary Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
When considering a move from San Diego, CA to Cary, NC, it's important to understand the differences in traffic and transportation options. This comparison will give you a clearer idea of what your daily commute and navigating each city might look like.
| Comparison | San Diego | Cary |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 24.7 | 24.1 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | Difficult | Very Difficult |
In San Diego, the average commute time is slightly longer than in Cary, NC, reflecting the city's larger geographic area and higher traffic congestion. San Diego scores higher in terms of public transit availability, thanks to its extensive network of buses and trolleys. While it's somewhat possible to get by without a car in San Diego, particularly if you live and work in more central areas, in Cary, the public transit options are more limited, making car ownership almost a necessity for navigating the area effectively. The lower traffic congestion score in Cary, however, can make for a smoother daily commute by car compared to San Diego.
Additional Resources
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