Best San Diego to Houston Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from San Diego to Houston and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 1,495 mile move from California to Texas go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 35 San Diego to Houston 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 The Rock Movers), how much the move costs (approximately $2,000 - $7,500 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in San Diego compared to Houston. 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 Houston 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 | Atlas Transfer & Storage Co. | 8.94 | 8.13 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 4 | Pinpoint Movers | 8.76 | 9.23 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 5 | Right Rate Movers of Houston | 8.67 | 8.59 | Active | Contact |
(800) 787-5428Cost to Move from San Diego to Houston
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 1,495 miles from San Diego, CA to Houston, TX will cost on average $3,053 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom San Diego to Houston move is roughly $7,352. 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 | $2,050 | 300 ft³ | 6.83 |
| 1 Bedroom | $3,053 | 450 ft³ | 6.78 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $5,050 | 750 ft³ | 6.73 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $7,352 | 1100 ft³ | 6.68 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $10,614 | 1600 ft³ | 6.63 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $11,850 | 1800 ft³ | 6.58 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Houston to San Diego guide.
Compare the 5 Best San Diego to Houston 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) |
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) |
Pinpoint Movers
7100 Regency Square Blvd Suite 199
Houston, TX, 77036
About Pinpoint Movers
Pinpoint Movers is a women-owned and family-operated moving company located in Houston, Texas that is licensed and insured to handle all...
Services
- Homepage:
- Residential moving
- Commercial moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3070055 / 944442 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 1 |
| Registered Drivers | 1 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 1 (2021) |
Right Rate Movers of Houston
2925 Richmond Ave
Houston, TX, 77098
About Right Rate Movers of Houston
Right Rate Movers of Houston is a trusted and reliable moving company recognized as an industry leader in terms of affordability...
Services
- Residential Moving
- Labor Only
- Packing Services
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2200927 / - Active Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 1 |
| Registered Drivers | 1 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | - |
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. Houston Neighborhood Comparison
Moving to a new city can be daunting, especially when you're trying to find a neighborhood that feels like home. We aim to simplify this transition with a comparison of local neighborhoods between San Diego, CA & Houston, TX . By aligning the characteristics of popular neighborhoods from your current city with those in your future city, we help you familiarize yourself with new surroundings using what you know best.
| San Diego | Houston | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| La Jolla | River Oaks | Upscale, shopping, and scenic views |
| Gaslamp Quarter | Montrose | Vibrant nightlife, eclectic eateries |
| Pacific Beach | Midtown | Youthful energy, nightlife, and beaches |
| North Park | The Heights | Trendy, artsy with a historic vibe |
| Hillcrest | Neartown | Diverse, LGBTQ+ friendly |
| Coronado | West University | Affluent, family-friendly, picturesque |
| Del Mar | Bellaire | Peaceful, well-manicured, accessible amenities |
| Ocean Beach | Clear Lake | Laid-back, waterfront activities |
| Encinitas | Katy | Suburban feel, green spaces, family-centric |
| Carmel Valley | Energy Corridor | Modern, family-oriented, outdoor activities |
For those drawn to the artsy and historic charm of North Park, The Heights in Houston presents a similar appeal with its own set of unique attractions. Imagine wandering through streets lined with colorful murals, eclectic shops, and Victorian homes remodeled into businesses. Enjoy community-oriented events at the Heights Theater or indulge in the culinary scene at establishments like Harold's Restaurant, known for its southern comfort food. Similarly, La Jolla's seaside elegance finds a match in Houston's River Oaks, where sprawling estates and luxury boutiques along River Oaks Boulevard mirror La Jolla's scenic coastal vibe and high-end shopping experiences, like those found at Fashion Valley. These neighborhoods showcase how each city, while distinct, offers neighborhoods that cater to diverse preferences, ensuring you'll find a new place to call home with the amenities and atmosphere you cherish.
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from San Diego to Houston
Moving from San Diego, CA to Houston, TX involves a significant change in lifestyle. This comparison aims to show an honest reflection of the pros and cons of relocating, helping you weigh both the appealing aspects and the potential challenges of such a move.
San Diego, CA- High cost of living
- Limited job market
- Less cultural diversity
Houston, TX- Lower cost of living
- Diverse job opportunities
- Greater cultural diversity
Houston, TX- Humid weather
- No beaches nearby
- Less tech-focused
San Diego, CA- Mild climate
- Beach access
- Tech job hub
The cost of living differential between San Diego and Houston is one of the most significant changes you will notice. In Houston, your dollar stretches further, especially for real estate, allowing you to enjoy spacious living situations in vibrant neighborhoods like Montrose or the historic Heights, both known for their unique eateries, such as Uchi for innovative sushi or Common Bond Cafe & Bakery for delectable pastries and coffee. Additionally, the professional landscape in Houston is extensive, with opportunities across industries such as energy, healthcare, and technology, notably at the Texas Medical Center and various tech startups throughout the city. While you might miss the mild weather and beach culture of San Diego, Houston's diversity, cultural richness, and dynamic food scene—from quintessential Texas barbecue at Killen's BBQ to international cuisine—are compelling reasons to embrace your new home.
San Diego vs. Houston Food Guide
Whether you're savoring a meal by the beach or enjoying a feast inland, food is a vital part of experiencing local culture and the lifestyle of an area. This guide serves to enlighten you about what culinary delights await by providing a comparison of the local cuisine between San Diego & Houston, two vibrant cities with distinct food scenes, helping you navigate your move with taste.
| San Diego | Houston | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Fish Tacos | Texas BBQ Brisket |
| Most popular meat dish | Carne Asada | Beef Ribs |
| Most popular street food item | California Burrito | Street Tacos |
| Most popular vegan food | Avocado Toast | Jackfruit BBQ Tacos |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
San Diego boasts a plethora of dining options that highlight its coastal location, with seafood and Mexican cuisine taking center stage. For instance, fish tacos can be savored in ocean-view restaurants such as Ocean Beach Pier Cafe. Meanwhile, Houston offers a diverse culinary scene defined by its rich BBQ traditions and a surprising twist of innovative vegan options like jackfruit tacos found in trendy neighborhoods such as Montrose. Both cities cater to food enthusiasts with their array of food trucks, vibrant foodie scenes, and consideration for health and vegan options, but each brings its unique flavors and specialties to the table. Whether it's enjoying a California burrito in the bustling Gaslamp Quarter or savoring Texas BBQ brisket in East End Houston, there's a culinary adventure waiting for you.
San Diego vs. Houston Restaurant Comparison
Food plays a major role in making a new city feel like home. Through this restaurant comparison between San Diego and Houston, you'll discover equivalent dining experiences to help find your next favorite spot, seamlessly transitioning your palate from the familiar to the exciting and new.
| San Diego | Houston | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Juniper & Ivy | BCN Taste & Tradition | High-end dining with innovative dishes. |
| Hodad's | Kenny & Ziggy's Delicatessen | Classic, hearty American eats in an informal setting. |
| Phil's BBQ | Pappas Bros. Steakhouse | Known for their quality meats and BBQ techniques. |
| Café 21 | Café Poêtes | A cozy café offering a similar from-scratch, local ingredient focus. |
| Las Cuatro Milpas | Hugo's | Authentic Mexican cuisine with traditional methods. |
| George's at the Cove | La Lucha | Seafood and stunning views, mirroring a beachfront vibe. |
| Sushi Ota | Uchi | Innovative sushi and Japanese cuisine, a foodie's delight. |
| Extraordinary Desserts | Dessert Gallery | Iconic desserts that are sure to satisfy any sweet tooth. |
| Craft & Commerce | Anvil Bar & Refuge | Both known for their craft cocktails and unique ambience. |
| Puesto | Eight Row Flint | Offers contemporary tacos in a casual yet vibrant setting. |
Embarking on this culinary journey, you'll discover that Houston's BCN Taste & Tradition reflects the innovative and upscale dining experience of San Diego's Juniper & Ivy, capturing the essence of high-end dining with a touch of creativity. For those craving authentic Mexican flavors, Hugo's in Houston serves traditional dishes that mirror the beloved Las Cuatro Milpas in San Diego, emphasizing the significance of heritage in their cuisine. Seafood enthusiasts will find solace at La Lucha, offering an experience akin to George's at the Cove, with both places providing not just meals, but a scenic ambience that complements every dish. Through these comparisons, finding a new favorite dining spot in Houston that feels like home won’t just be possible—it will be a delightful adventure.
Ready to start your move?
San Diego vs. Houston Real Estate & Living Facts
When planning a move, comparing the real estate market between San Diego and Houston is crucial for making an informed decision. Understanding the differences in housing costs, architecture, and lifestyle can significantly impact your experience. Let's dive into how these two cities measure up.
| Comparison | San Diego | Houston |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Spanish Colonial, Modern | Modern, Ranch-Style |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Ocean View, Solar Panels | Spacious Backyards, Energy Efficiency |
When comparing housing between San Diego and Houston, it's evident that both cities offer unique living experiences shaped by local culture, geography, and economy. San Diego's higher cost of living is reflected in its significantly higher median home prices and rent. The city's Spanish Colonial and modern architectural styles often include luxury features like ocean views and solar panels, catering to a more upscale market. On the other hand, Houston's more affordable housing market prefers spacious backyards and energy-efficient homes, indicative of Texas's larger property sizes and the state’s focus on sustainability. The differences in walkability and bikeability between the two cities highlight San Diego's more dense urban planning, which supports a more active lifestyle compared to Houston's sprawling layout.
San Diego vs. Houston Weather Considerations
When planning a move, understanding the climatic differences between your current and future home is crucial. This comparison between San Diego and Houston weather will help you prepare for the changes. Let’s explore how temperatures, humidity, and other climatic factors differ in these cities.
San Diego, CA
Houston, TX
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
San Diego, CA
Houston, TX
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
San Diego, CA
Houston, TX
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
San Diego, CA
Houston, TX
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | San Diego | Houston |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Good | Moderate |
| Natural Disasters | Earthquakes, Wildfires | Hurricanes, Flooding |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
Moving from San Diego to Houston, you'll experience a significant increase in both summer temperatures and humidity. While San Diego offers comfortable, dry heat, Houston's summers are hotter and muggier, which can take some getting used to. Houston also sees a lot more rainfall, receiving an average of 50 inches annually compared to San Diego's 12 inches. This contributes to Houston's higher humidity and more prevalent mold and ragweed allergens. Despite these differences, both cities boast a relatively high number of sunny days throughout the year, though San Diego leads in this regard. Adjusting to Houston’s weather will be a change, but it's nothing a good air conditioner and a few dehumidifiers can't handle.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from San Diego to Houston
Understanding how moving from one city to another affects your finances is crucial. This comparison highlights the differences in money and finance when moving from San Diego, CA to Houston, TX. It will help you gauge the economic landscape and prepare accordingly.
| Comparison | San Diego | Houston |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $93,042 | $55,499 |
| Cost of Living Index | 132.3 | 92.2 |
| State Income Tax | 13.3 | 0 |
| Avg. Property Tax | 0.77 | 2.09 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 7.75 | 8.25 |
| Top 3 Industries | Defense/Military, International Trade, Tourism | Energy, Manufacturing, Aeronautics |
| Affluence | High | Moderate |
| Poverty | Moderate | High |
| Homelessness | High | Significant |
When comparing the financial landscapes of San Diego and Houston, several factors stand out. San Diego's average household income is substantially higher than Houston's, which, combined with Texas' lack of state income tax, might stretch your dollar further in Houston. However, property taxes are significantly higher in Houston, potentially offsetting some of those savings. The cost of living in San Diego is markedly higher, largely due to housing costs. Moreover, each city's top industries reflect their unique economic strengths, with San Diego's focus on defense and tourism, and Houston's on energy and aeronautics, offering diverse job prospects depending on your field.
San Diego vs. Houston Political & Religious Comparison
This guide provides a quick snapshot of the comparison of the politics between San Diego & Houston to help you understand the political and religious makeup of the places you're moving from and to. Get a brief yet comprehensive look at the local dynamics that shape these cities.
| San Diego | Houston | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Lean Liberal | Moderately Liberal |
| Local Politics | Moderate, with strong environmental & equal rights focus | Diverse, with emphasis on economic development & healthcare |
| Religion | Diverse; notable presence of Catholic and non-denominational Christian | Highly diverse; strong presence of Evangelical, Catholic, and non-religious groups |
San Diego and Houston share a liberal-leaning political outlook, but the nuances of their local politics and communal priorities offer a broader perspective for new inhabitants. San Diego maintains a moderate political stance, heavily influenced by environmental protection and equality initiatives. Contrastingly, Houston's politics engage more with economic growth and healthcare issues, reflecting its status as a major commercial and medical hub. Religious diversity is pronounced in both cities, with San Diego hosting a significant Catholic community alongside burgeoning non-denominational Christian groups. Houston's religious landscape is similarly varied, with a considerable representation of Evangelical Christians, Catholics, and a noteworthy non-religious population. This plurality in both political and religious beliefs shapes the rich, diverse culture of each city, promising newcomers a vibrant community life.
San Diego vs. Houston Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
As you consider your move from San Diego, CA, to Houston, TX, understanding the differences in daily commutes and traffic is crucial. This comparison of the traffic and transportation options between San Diego & Houston will provide insight into what you might expect when navigating either city.
| Comparison | San Diego | Houston |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 25 | 27 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | Challenging | Difficult |
Although both cities face their challenges with traffic congestion, Houston edges out San Diego slightly in terms of severity. Moreover, while San Diego provides decent public transit options, making it somewhat feasible to get around without a car, Houston's public transit availability is slightly lower, rendering car dependency more pronounced. This difference chiefly arises from Houston's broader geographical layout and less invested infrastructure in public transport. It's not impossible to navigate Houston without a car, but your daily commute may require more planning and potentially longer commute times.
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