Best San Diego to Chattanooga Movers + Moving Guide

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If you're moving from San Diego to Chattanooga and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 2,148 mile move from California to Tennessee go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 25 San Diego to Chattanooga 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 - $8,500 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in San Diego compared to Chattanooga. 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 San Diego to Chattanooga Moving Companies

RankCompany NameRating QuestionAffordability IndexLicenseContact
1The Rock Movers9.499.53Authorized For HHGContact
2Coast 2 Coast Moving, Inc.9.469.62Authorized For HHGContact
3Boundless Moving & Storage9.339.36Authorized For Property, HHGContact
4Atlas Transfer & Storage Co.8.948.13Authorized For HHGContact
5Smooth Moving & Storage8.938.63Authorized For HHGContact
Phone (800) 787-5428

Cost to Move from San Diego to Chattanooga

Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 2,148 miles from San Diego, CA to Chattanooga, TN will cost on average $3,608 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom San Diego to Chattanooga move is roughly $8,709. 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$2,420300 ft³8.07
1 Bedroom$3,608450 ft³8.02
2 Bedrooms$5,976750 ft³7.97
3 Bedrooms$8,7091100 ft³7.92
4 Bedrooms$12,5881600 ft³7.87
5+ Bedrooms$14,0711800 ft³7.82
*Please note: These California to Tennessee moving prices are rough approximations based upon nationwide data as well as local and statewide data from California & Tennessee. 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 TN mover.
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Chattanooga to San Diego guide.

Compare the 5 Best San Diego to Chattanooga Movers

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

The Rock Movers Logo

The Rock Movers

Exceptional9.49/10
based on 2,305+ data points

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

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3653432 / 1541470

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans4
Registered Drivers7
Total Annual Miles Moved40,000 (2023)
View Full Review
1
Coast 2 Coast Moving, Inc. Logo

Coast 2 Coast Moving, Inc.

Exceptional9.46/10
based on 477+ data points

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

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3177184 / 1157114

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans3
Registered Drivers7
Total Annual Miles Moved200,000 (2024)
View Full Review
2
Boundless Moving & Storage Logo

Boundless Moving & Storage

Exceptional9.33/10
based on 1,378+ data points

5595 N. Lee Hwy

Cleveland, TN, 37312

About Boundless Moving & Storage

Boundless Moving is a local, family-owned moving company near Chattanooga, TN. Established in 2015, it is located in Cleveland and offers...

Services

  • Local Moving Services
  • Long Distance Moving Services
  • Commercial Moving Services

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2798532 / 934519

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans8
Registered Drivers8
Total Annual Miles Moved358,520 (2022)
View Full Review
3
Atlas Transfer & Storage Co. Logo

Atlas Transfer & Storage Co.

Superb8.94/10
based on 2,147+ data points

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

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

877737 / 383831

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans1
Registered Drivers4
Total Annual Miles Moved8,778 (2022)
View Full Review
4
Smooth Moving & Storage Logo

Smooth Moving & Storage

Superb8.93/10
based on 346+ data points

3620 Trousdale Dr

Nashville, TN, 37204

About Smooth Moving & Storage

Smooth Moving & Storage is a full-service moving and storage company based in Nashville, Tennessee, offering professional, reliable, and stress-free moving...

Services

  • Local moving
  • Long-distance moving
  • Residential moving

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2472874 / 1244900

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans2
Registered Drivers2
Total Annual Miles Moved1 (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.

San Diego vs. Chattanooga 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 offer a comparison of popular San Diego, CA neighborhoods with those in Chattanooga, TN. This guide will help you find a new neighborhood in Chattanooga that mirrors the lifestyle and community you love back in San Diego, CA & Chattanooga, TN .

San DiegoChattanoogaHow They're Similar
La JollaLookout MountainUpscale, scenic views
North ParkNorth ShoreEclectic shops, vibrant arts scene
Pacific BeachRiverfrontActive lifestyle, waterfront entertainment
Gaslamp QuarterSouthsideHistoric district, buzzing nightlife
HillcrestSt. ElmoDiverse community, unique local businesses
Little ItalyBluff View Art DistrictCulinary hotspot, artistic vibe
Point LomaSignal MountainGorgeous views, quiet residential area
CoronadoNorth ChattanoogaExclusive, well-maintained homes
Del MarOoltewahFamily-friendly, upscale living
EncinitasEast BrainerdLaid back, community-focused

If you're drawn to the beach and active lifestyle of Pacific Beach, you'll likely appreciate the Riverfront area in Chattanooga, with its access to the Tennessee River and vibrant outdoor activities including the Tennessee Riverwalk and Coolidge Park. For those who enjoyed the bustling nightlife and historic charm of Gaslamp Quarter, the Southside district offers a similar vibe, featuring local hotspots like the Chattanooga Whiskey Experimental Distillery. And if La Jolla's upscale, scenic living was more your pace, Lookout Mountain will impress with breathtaking views and luxurious homes, mirroring that coveted coastal atmosphere but with mountainous splendor.

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Things to Do in Chattanooga

  • Explore Tennessee Aquarium
  • Hike Lookout Mountain
  • Visit Ruby Falls
  • Ride the Incline Railway
  • Stroll through Bluff View Art District
  • Shop at Chattanooga Market

Ready to start your move?

Pros and Cons of Moving from San Diego to Chattanooga

Moving from one city to another offers a mix of challenges and rewards. This comparison aims to provide an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of relocating from San Diego, CA to Chattanooga, TN . It will help you weigh the cons against the pros and vice versa, ensuring a well-informed decision about your big move.

CONs
PROs
San Diego, CA iconSan Diego, CA
  • Higher cost of living
  • Dense population
  • Heavier traffic
  • Less green space
Chattanooga, TN iconChattanooga, TN
  • Lower cost of living
  • Smaller, tight-knit community
  • Less traffic congestion
  • More outdoor activities
Chattanooga, TN iconChattanooga, TN
  • No beaches
  • Seasonal weather
  • Quieter nightlife
  • More limited dining options
San Diego, CA iconSan Diego, CA
  • Beach access
  • Year-round mild weather
  • Vibrant nightlife
  • Diverse cuisine

San Diego, renowned for its stunning beaches and vibrant nightlife, offers an array of dining options from waterfront restaurants like Coasterra to trendy spots in neighborhoods like Little Italy. Chattanooga, however, presents a different kind of charm with its scenic beauty and an abundance of outdoor activities. At places like Tennessee Riverpark, you can enjoy biking and walking trails with picturesque views. Although Chattanooga may have fewer dining options compared to San Diego, it boasts unique establishments like Alleia that offer a cozy dining experience. This move represents a transition from the bustling city life of San Diego to the more laid-back, outdoor-oriented lifestyle of Chattanooga, where community and nature go hand in hand.

San Diego vs. Chattanooga Food Guide

Understanding the essence of local cuisine is vital when relocating. It offers a glimpse into the daily life and cultural fabric of your new home. Thus, we have crafted a comparison of the local cuisine between San Diego & Chattanooga to help you better appreciate the culinary diversity awaiting you.

San DiegoChattanooga
Most iconic local food itemFish TacosBarbecue Ribs
Most popular meat dishCarne AsadaPulled Pork Sandwich
Most popular street food itemCalifornia BurritoChili Cheese Fries
Most popular vegan foodAcai BowlBBQ Jackfruit Sandwich
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
  • Juniper & Ivy
  • Hodad's
  • Phil’s BBQ
  • Alleia
  • Terminal Brewhouse
  • Aretha Frankenstein's
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
Abundance of Food Trucks🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
Foodie Scene🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

Moving from the sunny shores of San Diego to the scenic beauty of Chattanooga means adapting to a different culinary landscape. In San Diego, you're likely used to the vibrant Mexican influences, with fish tacos and carne asada defining much of the local food scene. Neighborhoods like Little Italy offer a plethora of dining experiences, such as Juniper & Ivy, a spot renowned for innovative dishes. Chattanooga, on the other hand, offers a hearty Southern comfort food experience with iconic eateries like Alleia, which provide a refined take on traditional Italian dishes within the heart of the South. The shift from a coastal, Mexican-inspired diet to Southern comfort food and BBQ in Chattanooga will be a significant change, but both cities boast a thriving food scene sure to excite any food enthusiast.

San Diego vs. Chattanooga Restaurant Comparison

Finding the perfect dining experience makes any area feel like home. This restaurant comparison between San Diego and Chattanooga will guide you to new favorite eateries, using your cherished spots in San Diego as a familiar baseline.

San DiegoChattanoogaWhat You'll Love
Juniper & IvySt. John's RestaurantCreative, upscale dining offering a similar commitment to quality and innovation
Phil's BBQCharlie’s BBQ & BakeryDown-home vibes with standout smoked meats, capturing the essence of a BBQ haven
Mister A'sAlleiaElegant setting with a view, known for refined meals and an atmosphere akin to Mister A's
George's at the CoveEasy Bistro & BarCoastal vibes with exquisite seafood options, mimicking George's oceanfront dining experience
Las Cuatro MilpasTaqueria JaliscoAuthentic Mexican cuisine offering a taste reminiscent of the hearty and homely meals at Las Cuatro Milpas
Slater's 50/50Tremont TavernGourmet burgers and a laid-back atmosphere, similar to Slater's innovative approach to casual dining
Hodad'sMain Street MeatsKnown for its burgers and local vibe, reflecting Hodad's commitment to quality and community
PuestoTaconoogaFresh, vibrant Mexican dishes that evoke the innovative spirit of Puesto's menu
Cucina UrbanaPublic HouseA focus on local, farm-to-table ingredients in a sophisticated yet casual setting, similar to Cucina Urbana's philosophy
Indigo GrillThe Flying SquirrelUnique, global-inspired dishes in an eclectic setting, echoing Indigo Grill's own inventive menu

When the craving for innovative and high-quality dining strikes in your new hometown of Chattanooga, you’ll find establishments that echo the spirit of San Diego’s top restaurants. St. John's Restaurant, much like Juniper & Ivy, offers creative culinary experiences that are sure to delight foodies looking for an upscale dining option. For a more casual outing that does not skimp on flavor or quality, Charlie’s BBQ & Bakery presents a down-to-earth atmosphere akin to Phil's BBQ, serving up smoked meats that will satisfy any BBQ aficionado. On the other hand, if you're looking for authentic Mexican cuisine, Taconooga serves vibrant dishes that remind you of the meals at Las Cuatro Milpas, bringing a taste of home into the heart of Chattanooga. Whether you're in the mood for a sophisticated meal or a hearty, casual dining experience, Chattanooga has something to offer that echoes the Savor the flavors of San Diego.

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San Diego vs. Chattanooga Real Estate & Living Facts

When considering a move, it's crucial to understand the real estate landscape of your potential new home. This comparison between San Diego, CA and Chattanooga, TN highlights the key aspects of housing, including cost, architecture, and lifestyle. Knowing these differences will equip you with the knowledge to make an informed decision.

ComparisonSan DiegoChattanooga
Typical Architecture StyleSpanish ColonialVictorian and Modern
Walkability 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listingOcean Views, Outdoor Living SpacesMountain Views, Spacious Yards

Delving into the details, you'll find that San Diego's higher cost of living is balanced by its vibrant urban lifestyle and the sought-after Spanish Colonial architecture, complemented by stunning ocean views. Chattanooga presents a more affordable housing market, offering Victorian and Modern-styled homes nestled among picturesque mountain landscapes. Both cities offer unique qualities, but Chattanooga stands out for individuals seeking spacious yards and a closer connection to nature. Additionally, while San Diego benefits from better bikeability and a more active urban scene, Chattanooga's emerging urban lifestyle and developing amenities are attracting more residents looking for a balance between city living and outdoor adventure.

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Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Chattanooga, TN

1. North Shore: Your furry friend will love exploring the spacious Renaissance Park and cooling off in the designated dog areas.

2. St. Elmo: This neighborhood is ideal for pet owners with its easy access to the Chickamauga and Chattanooga National Military Park, offering plenty of trails and green spaces for your pets to enjoy.

3. Highland Park: Known for its friendly community and walkable streets, you and your pet can enjoy daily walks to local pet-friendly cafes and the nearby Warner Park.

San Diego vs. Chattanooga Weather Considerations

When planning a move from one city to another, it's essential to consider how the weather in San Diego will differ from Chattanooga. This comparison will help you prepare for changes in climate and outdoor activities. Understanding the differences in seasonal temperatures, humidity, and natural disaster risks will aid in your transition.

Summer icon
76 / 65

San Diego, CA

90 / 69

Chattanooga, TN

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
66 / 49

San Diego, CA

50 / 30

Chattanooga, TN

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
10

San Diego, CA

52.5

Chattanooga, TN

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
0

San Diego, CA

2

Chattanooga, TN

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

ComparisonSan DiegoChattanooga
Air QualityGoodModerate
Natural DisastersEarthquakes, WildfiresTornadoes, Floods
Days of Sunshine per Year☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. UV Index🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Avg. Annual Humidity💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦

Moving from San Diego to Chattanooga introduces you to a range of different weather conditions. Chattanooga experiences a more pronounced seasonal change, with hotter summers and chillier winters compared to San Diego's mild climate. The humidity in Chattanooga is also higher, which may take some adjustment if you're used to the drier air of San Diego. Additionally, Chattanooga's higher annual rainfall could mean swapping out some of your outdoor activities for ones more suited to indoor or wet conditions. Adapting your wardrobe and home to account for these differences will ensure a smoother transition to your new environment.

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

When contemplating a move from one city to another, grasping the financial landscape is crucial. Understanding how San Diego's expenses and income opportunities compare with Chattanooga's can greatly influence your decision and preparation process.

ComparisonSan DiegoChattanooga
Avg. Household Income$93,042$55,065
Cost of Living Index132.391.1
State Income Tax1 - 13.31 (Hall tax on interest and dividends only)
Avg. Property Tax0.762.37
Avg. Sales Tax7.759.25
Top 3 IndustriesMilitary, International Trade, ResearchManufacturing, Health Care, Education
AffluenceModerately affluentProgressively growing
PovertyNoticeableReducing
HomelessnessSignificantModerate

Moving from San Diego to Chattanooga introduces a considerable shift in financial lifestyle. The average household income may decrease, but so does the cost of living significantly, making your expenses more manageable in Chattanooga. While San Diego is known for its high property taxes, Chattanooga's higher percentage could be offset by the overall affordability of homes. Tax structures differ as well, with Tennessee offering a unique stance on income tax primarily targeting interest and dividends. It's also worth noting the job market changes, with Chattanooga boasting growing healthcare and education sectors, potentially offering new career opportunities for newcomers.

San Diego vs. Chattanooga Political & Religious Comparison

Welcome to our concise guide, where we provide a comparison of the politics between San Diego & Chattanooga . This quick look aims to give you an understanding of the political and religious landscapes you'll encounter when moving from one vibrant city to another.

San DiegoChattanooga
Political Make-upLean DemocraticLean Republican
Local PoliticsProgressive policiesConservative policies
ReligionVaried, with a strong non-religious presenceChristianity dominates, particularly evangelical and Baptist traditions

Switching from San Diego to Chattanooga involves adapting to a significantly different cultural and political atmosphere. San Diego’s progressive leanings, evident in its local politics and policies, contrast sharply with Chattanooga's more conservative stance. While San Diego boasts a diverse religious landscape with a notable non-religious community, Chattanooga's environment is heavily influenced by Christian traditions, specifically within the evangelical and Baptist spheres. Understanding these differences will be crucial for you as you settle into your new home, navigating its social and political nuances.

San Diego vs. Chattanooga Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

As you consider moving from San Diego, CA to Chattanooga, TN, understanding the daily commute and traffic differences is crucial. This comparison between San Diego & Chattanooga will help you better prepare for what to expect in terms of traffic and transportation options in your new city.

ComparisonSan DiegoChattanooga
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)2522
Traffic Congestion 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦
Availability of Public Transit 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇
Can you get by without car?Possible but challengingDifficult

Despite having a slightly longer average commute time, San Diego offers more in terms of public transportation compared to Chattanooga. With a rating of 6 out of 10, San Diego's public transit system, featuring buses and trolleys, provides a decent alternative to driving. On the other hand, Chattanooga's score of 3 indicates fewer public transit options, making car ownership almost a necessity. Traffic congestion is notably less severe in Chattanooga, making it a smoother experience for those who drive. However, the practicality of living without a car in Chattanooga is considerably more challenging than in San Diego, where alternative transportation methods are more accessible.

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