Best San Diego to Pittsburgh Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from San Diego to Pittsburgh and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 2,562 mile move from California to Pennsylvania go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 33 San Diego to Pittsburgh 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 Pittsburgh Moving), 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 Pittsburgh. 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 Pittsburgh Moving Companies
| Rank | Company Name | Rating  | Affordability Index | License | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Pittsburgh Moving | 9.62 | 9.51 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 2 | The Rock Movers | 9.49 | 9.53 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 3 | Coast 2 Coast Moving, Inc. | 9.46 | 9.62 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 4 | Meta Movers | 9.12 | 9.43 | 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 Pittsburgh
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 2,562 miles from San Diego, CA to Pittsburgh, PA will cost on average $3,960 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom San Diego to Pittsburgh move is roughly $9,570. 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 | $2,655 | 300 ft³ | 8.85 |
| 1 Bedroom | $3,960 | 450 ft³ | 8.80 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $6,562 | 750 ft³ | 8.75 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $9,570 | 1100 ft³ | 8.70 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $13,840 | 1600 ft³ | 8.65 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $15,480 | 1800 ft³ | 8.60 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Pittsburgh to San Diego guide.
Compare the 5 Best San Diego to Pittsburgh Movers
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
Pittsburgh Moving
5746 Pierce St
Pittsburgh, PA, 15232
About Pittsburgh Moving
Located in the City of Bridges, Pittsburgh Moving is a full-service moving company dedicated to making your local and intrastate relocations...
Services
- Local move in Pittsburgh
- Long distance moving in or out of Pittsburgh
- Residential move
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3901080 / 1437162 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 3 |
| Registered Drivers | 6 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 100,000 (2023) |
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) |
Meta Movers
13 Holt St
Pittsburgh, PA, 15203
About Meta Movers
Meta Movers is a licensed and insured moving company based in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, with over a decade of experience in the...
Services
- Full-service local Pittsburgh moves
- Long distance residential and commercial moves
- Loading or unloading your truck or pod
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3295834 / 1044452 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 1 |
| Registered Drivers | 3 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 10,000 (2022) |
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. Pittsburgh Neighborhood Comparison
Moving to a new city can be daunting, especially when you're not familiar with the local neighborhoods. To ease this transition, we've prepared a comparison to help you familiarize yourself with Pittsburgh, PA by referencing similar neighborhoods from San Diego, CA. Our guide focuses on comparing the local neighborhoods between San Diego, CA & Pittsburgh, PA, offering a baseline for newcomers to relate and adapt quickly to their new environment.
| San Diego | Pittsburgh | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| La Jolla | Squirrel Hill | Affluent, academic atmosphere |
| North Park | Lawrenceville | Trendy, arts-focused |
| Pacific Beach | Shadyside | Lively nightlife, young professionals |
| Coronado | Mount Lebanon | Upscale, family-friendly |
| Ocean Beach | Bloomfield | Bohemian, close-knit community |
| Hillcrest | East Liberty | Diverse, vibrant lifestyle |
| Gaslamp Quarter | South Side Flats | Nightlife, historic district |
| Little Italy | Strip District | Foodie paradise, cultural hub |
| Del Mar | Fox Chapel | Exclusive, suburban feel |
| Encinitas | Point Breeze | Charming, spacious homes |
If you're charmed by the upscale, beachfront vibe of La Jolla, with its stunning ocean views and thriving academic scene, you'll find a similar atmosphere in Squirrel Hill, where prestigious universities add a scholarly dimension to its affluent environment. For those who love the lively, artsy scene of North Park, Lawrenceville offers a dynamic alternative with its extensive selection of galleries, boutiques, and eateries like Cure and Round Corner Cantina. Meanwhile, if the historic charm and dining options of Gaslamp Quarter capture your interest, South Side Flats' robust nightlife and historic Victorian architecture, combined with spots like Dish Osteria Bar, will make you feel right at home. These comparisons illustrate just a few of the parallels designed to help you navigate your new life in Pittsburgh with a touch of familiarity.
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from San Diego to Pittsburgh
Moving from one city to another offers a unique chance to weigh both the benefits and drawbacks of your relocation. This comparison aims to provide an honest reflection on moving from San Diego, CA to Pittsburgh, PA, highlighting what you may gain or lose through this transition.
San Diego, CA- High living costs
- Heavy traffic
- Less seasonal change
Pittsburgh, PA- More affordable housing
- Less congestion
- Distinct seasons
Pittsburgh, PA- More cloudy days
- No direct beach access
- Fewer nightlife options
San Diego, CA- Sunny weather
- Beaches nearby
- Vibrant nightlife
When you swap the sunny climes and vibrant nightlife of San Diego for Pittsburgh's more affordable living and distinct seasonal experiences, you're in for some significant changes. Pittsburgh proudly offers its own unique charm, with Phipps Conservatory and Carnegie Museums standing out as cultural beacons amidst the city’s rich landscape of historic neighborhoods. While you might miss the direct beach access of places like La Jolla Cove, the green spaces and riverside trails, such as those in Schenley Park, offer their own kind of outdoor retreat within the city. Restaurants in the Strip District or Lawrenceville provide eclectic and cozy dining experiences that reflect the city's diverse culinary scene. Transitioning from San Diego to Pittsburgh means embracing these changes and finding new local favorites.
San Diego vs. Pittsburgh Food Guide
Food is an integral part of experiencing local culture and understanding what it's like to live in a new area. By exploring the comparison of the local cuisine between San Diego & Pittsburgh , you can get a better sense of the culinary scene you'll be diving into or departing from.
| San Diego | Pittsburgh | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Fish Tacos | Pierogi |
| Most popular meat dish | Carne Asada Burrito | Primanti Bros. Sandwich |
| Most popular street food item | California Burrito | Polish Sausage |
| Most popular vegan food | Acai Bowl | Vegan Pierogi |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness (out of 10) | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks (out of 10) | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene (out of 10) | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly (out of 10) | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
When venturing into the diverse culinary landscape of Pittsburgh, foods like the iconic pierogi found in neighborhoods such as the Strip District or beloved Primanti Bros. sandwiches, which are a staple of Pittsburgh cuisine, are a must-try. Places like Pamela's Diner offer a nostalgic dive into the local breakfast scene, while the Church Brew Works combines Pittsburgh’s rich history with its evolving foodie culture. For those leaning towards plant-based options, the city has seen a rise in vegan-friendly dishes, including variations of its beloved pierogi, showcasing Pittsburgh's ability to combine tradition with contemporary tastes.
San Diego vs. Pittsburgh Restaurant Comparison
Relocating often means leaving behind favorite culinary spots, making it crucial to find new ones to call home. This restaurant comparison between San Diego and Pittsburgh will help bridge the gap, ensuring you'll discover your next go-to eatery with ease. Let this guide serve as your culinary compass in transitioning from the West Coast vibes of San Diego to the rich, diverse flavors of Pittsburgh.
| San Diego | Pittsburgh | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Georgina’s | DiAnoia's Eatery | Both offer a comforting embrace of authentic Italian cuisine. |
| Juniper and Ivy | Cure | A focus on innovative, locally-sourced dishes places Cure in line with the high-end dining experience of Juniper and Ivy. |
| Phil’s BBQ | Pittsburgh Barbecue Company | For those seeking a quintessential BBQ experience reminiscent of Phil’s, with its fall-off-the-bone meats and tangy sauces. |
| Hodad’s | Burgatory | Burgatory's custom burger options mirror the iconic burger experience at Hodad’s, celebrating the art of burger crafting. |
| Las Cuatro Milpas | Reyna Foods | Authentic Mexican fare that rivals the homemade dishes of Las Cuatro Milpas, right in the heart of Pittsburgh. |
| Mister A’s | Altius | Stunning city views paired with upscale dining, offering a similar ambiance to that of Mister A’s. |
| Ironside Fish & Oyster | Morimoto | Though more focused on sushi, Morimoto’s seafood offerings provide a high-quality dining experience akin to Ironside. |
| Extraordinary Desserts | Prantl's Bakery | The renowned Burnt Almond Torte at Prantl's offers a dessert experience on par with the lavish confections at Extraordinary Desserts. |
| Puesto | Tako | Tako stands out with its inventive tacos and vibrant atmosphere, echoing the modern, upscale Mexican fare found at Puesto. |
| Kindred | Spirit | For the creatively inclined, Spirit offers a parallel experience to Kindred, with its unique vegan menu items and lively entertainment options. |
While San Diego offers a unique culinary landscape, Pittsburgh is not without its gems. DiAnoia's Eatery provides an Italian dining experience that can easily become a favorite for those missing Georgina’s. For barbecue enthusiasts longing for the smoky flavors of Phil's BBQ, Pittsburgh Barbecue Company steps up as a worthy counterpart. Meanwhile, Tako brings innovative twists to Mexican cuisine, creating a vibrant dining atmosphere that mirrors the lively spirit of Puesto. These establishments not only replicate the types of foods you might already love but also embody the attentive service and community feel that make dining out so enjoyable.
Ready to start your move?
San Diego vs. Pittsburgh Real Estate & Living Facts
When considering a move, the real estate landscape in your new city is crucial. Understanding how San Diego and Pittsburgh compare in terms of housing will help make your transition smoother. This comparison covers essential aspects like cost, architecture, and lifestyle.
| Comparison | San Diego | Pittsburgh |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Spanish Colonial, Modern | Gothic, Tudor Revival |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Ocean Views, Outdoor Spaces | Historic Details, Green Spaces |
Moving from San Diego to Pittsburgh will bring noticeable changes in your living situation, chiefly in housing affordability. In Pittsburgh, the cost of buying a home or renting is significantly lower, making wealth stretch further in the real estate market. Pittsburgh's architecture showcases the city's rich history through its Gothic and Tudor Revival styles, contrasting with San Diego's Spanish Colonial and modern designs. Pittsburgh also rates higher in walkability and bikeability, hinting at a more compact and accessible urban layout. This aspect, combined with a vibrant urban lifestyle marked by a higher score, reflects Pittsburgh's emphasis on community and accessibility. Not to mention, listings in Pittsburgh often highlight green spaces and historic details, pointing to the city's appreciation of its lush environment and storied past.
Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Pittsburgh, PA
1. Lawrenceville: This neighborhood boasts a vibrant community with easy access to dog parks and pet-friendly restaurants like The Vandal, making it perfect for you and your furry friend.
2. Shadyside: Known for its walkable streets and a welcoming atmosphere for pets, Shadyside offers numerous pet stores such as Petagogy and outdoor areas, ideal for keeping your pet healthy and happy.
3. Squirrel Hill: With its close proximity to Frick Park, Squirrel Hill provides endless trails and green spaces for you and your pet to explore, alongside pet-friendly cafes and community activities.
San Diego vs. Pittsburgh Weather Considerations
Moving from one city to another entails significant adjustments, especially regarding the weather. Understanding the weather comparison between San Diego and Pittsburgh is crucial for your preparations and to set proper expectations. This comparison will highlight how the sunny, mild climate of San Diego contrasts with Pittsburgh's variable weather, impacting your daily life and activities.
San Diego, CA
Pittsburgh, PA
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
San Diego, CA
Pittsburgh, PA
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
San Diego, CA
Pittsburgh, PA
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
San Diego, CA
Pittsburgh, PA
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | San Diego | Pittsburgh |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Good | Moderate |
| Natural Disasters | Wildfires, Earthquakes | Snowstorms, Flooding |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
While San Diego boasts warm summers and mild winters with an abundance of sunshine, Pittsburgh experiences a wider range of weather conditions, including cold winters with considerable snowfall and more humid summers. The significant difference in the number of sunny days between the two cities can impact mood and outdoor activities. Those moving from San Diego to Pittsburgh should prepare for the colder, snowy winters and embrace the beautiful seasonal changes, especially the spectacular fall foliage that Pittsburgh offers. Adjusting your wardrobe and perhaps your outdoor hobbies will help you transition smoothly to your new environment.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from San Diego to Pittsburgh
When contemplating a move, it's crucial to understand the financial implications of relocating from San Diego to Pittsburgh. The cost of living, taxes, and average income vary significantly between these cities, impacting your budget and lifestyle. This comparison aims to provide a clear financial picture to help you prepare for your move.
| Comparison | San Diego | Pittsburgh |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $93,042 | $57,821 |
| Cost of Living Index | 132.3 | 91.5 |
| State Income Tax | 9.3 | 3.07 |
| Avg. Property Tax | 0.77 | 1.58 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 7.75 | 7.00 |
| Top 3 Industries | Defense, Tourism, International Trade | Healthcare, Education, Technology |
| Affluence | Moderately affluent | Increasingly affluent |
| Poverty | Low | Moderate |
| Homelessness | High | Moderate |
San Diego and Pittsburgh offer contrasting financial landscapes for potential residents. While the average household income in San Diego is significantly higher, the cost of living is also substantially greater, partly due to the higher state income tax and property tax rates. On the other hand, Pittsburgh presents a more affordable alternative, with a lower cost of living index and a favorable state income tax rate, making it an attractive option for those seeking a city with growing affluence but without the high living costs of coastal cities. Furthermore, the top industries in each city reflect the local economic focus and opportunities available, from defense and tourism in San Diego to healthcare and technology in Pittsburgh.
San Diego vs. Pittsburgh Political & Religious Comparison
When considering a move from San Diego to Pittsburgh, an overview of the comparison of the politics between San Diego & Pittsburgh and their religious landscapes offers a glimpse into the community you're entering. This quick snapshot provides insights into the local culture and societal makeup that await.
| San Diego | Pittsburgh | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Leans Democratic | Strongly Democratic |
| Local Politics | Progressive on environmental and immigration issues | Progressive with a focus on economic revitalization and social justice |
| Religion | Diverse; with notable Christian and Catholic communities | Predominantly Catholic; diverse religious communities present |
San Diego and Pittsburgh share a leaning towards Democratic values, but the intensity of their political landscapes differ. While San Diego is known for its environmental activism and liberal stance on immigration, Pittsburgh's politics prioritize economic revitalization and social justice, mirroring its industrial past. Religion plays a significant role in both cities, with San Diego hosting a variety of Christian denominations, including a strong Catholic presence that resonates with Pittsburgh's own predominantly Catholic demographic. This comparison not only underlines the shared values but also highlights the unique local priorities that shape each city's identity.
San Diego vs. Pittsburgh Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Moving from San Diego, CA, to Pittsburgh, PA, brings many changes, especially when it comes to commuting. This comparison aims to help you better understand what the daily commute and traffic is like between San Diego & Pittsburgh, making your transition smoother.
| Comparison | San Diego | Pittsburgh |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 26 | 24 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | Challenging | Possible, but limiting |
In San Diego, while you'll find yourself facing higher traffic congestion compared to Pittsburgh, the city is continuously improving its public transportation with the San Diego Metropolitan Transit System. However, most residents find having a car beneficial to fully explore the city and its surroundings. Conversely, Pittsburgh offers slightly less traffic congestion and a higher reliance on its public transportation, thanks to the Port Authority of Allegheny County. Pittsburgh’s more compact urban layout also makes it easier to get around without a car, though it could still be limiting if you wish to explore areas outside the city or if your job is located in one of the suburban areas.
Additional Resources
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