Best San Diego to Richmond Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from San Diego to Richmond and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 2,633 mile move from California to Virginia go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 29 San Diego to Richmond 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 Richmond. 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 Richmond 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 | Estes SureMove | 9.21 | 9.68 | Authorized For Property | Contact |
| 4 | On The Fly Moving Guys, LLC - Richmond, VA | 9.19 | 9.58 | 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 Richmond
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 2,633 miles from San Diego, CA to Richmond, VA will cost on average $4,020 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom San Diego to Richmond move is roughly $9,717. 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 | $2,695 | 300 ft³ | 8.98 |
| 1 Bedroom | $4,020 | 450 ft³ | 8.93 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $6,663 | 750 ft³ | 8.88 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $9,717 | 1100 ft³ | 8.83 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $14,054 | 1600 ft³ | 8.78 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $15,721 | 1800 ft³ | 8.73 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Richmond to San Diego guide.
Compare the 5 Best San Diego to Richmond 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) |
Estes SureMove
3901 W Broad St
Richmond, VA, 23230
About Estes SureMove
The most significant cause of stress when moving is the cost. Traditional full-service movers can take care of everything for you,...
Services
- Home moving
- Employee relocations
- Add-ons (such as same-day pickup)
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 121018 / 97275 Authorized For Property Carrier/Broker |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 9,075 |
| Registered Drivers | 8,573 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 586,187,648 (2023) |
On The Fly Moving Guys, LLC - Richmond, VA
424 E Grace St # 92
Richmond, VA, 23219
About On The Fly Moving Guys, LLC - Richmond, VA
On The Fly Moving Guys, LLC is a family-owned and operated moving company based in Richmond, VA. They provide local and...
Services
- Local Moving
- Moving Helpers
- Packing Services
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3865625 / 1413617 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 4 |
| Registered Drivers | 7 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 8,000 (2023) |
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. Richmond Neighborhood Comparison
When relocating, getting to know your new city can be a daunting task. This guide aims to ease the transition by offering a comparison of local neighborhoods between San Diego, CA & Richmond, VA. We'll match the vibe and character of San Diego neighborhoods with their Richmond counterparts, helping you find a new home that feels familiar.
| San Diego | Richmond | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| La Jolla | The Fan | Historic architecture, vibrant cultural scene |
| North Park | Scott's Addition | Booming craft breweries, artsy vibe |
| Pacific Beach | Carytown | Lively nightlife, eclectic shopping |
| Hillcrest | The Museum District | Diverse, welcoming community, near cultural institutions |
| Gaslamp Quarter | Shockoe Bottom | Rich history, entertainment options |
| Coronado | Monroe Ward | Elegant, with a touch of history |
| Little Italy | Church Hill | Renowned dining scene, historical charm |
| Ocean Beach | Manchester | Riverside views, burgeoning arts scene |
| Encinitas | Bellevue | Laid-back vibe, neighborhood charm |
| Del Mar | Windsor Farms | Upscale, serene residential area |
For instance, if you’ve enjoyed the trendy, laid-back atmosphere of North Park with its craft beer scene, independent shops, and vibrant street art, you'll find Scott's Addition in Richmond maintains a similar artsy vibe with its booming craft breweries, modern apartments, and mural-adorned warehouses. Meanwhile, lovers of La Jolla's coastal charm and upscale dining might find themselves at home in The Fan, where historic architecture lines leafy streets packed with cultural venues and cozy eateries. And if Pacific Beach's blend of sun, sand, and social life is what you're after, Carytown's bustling scene of bars, unique shops, and local events will capture your heart in a decidedly Richmondesque way. These transitions represent just a slice of how San Diego's diverse neighborhoods pair wonderfully with Richmond's own varied districts.
Things to Do in Richmond
Explore the historical Richmond National Battlefield Park.- Stroll through the lush Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden.
- View contemporary art at the ICA at VCU.
- Attend a concert at The National venue.
- Paddleboarding on James River.
- Family fun at the Children's Museum of Richmond.
- Experience the vibrant Downtown Richmond nightlife.
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from San Diego to Richmond
Making the move from San Diego, CA to Richmond, VA presents a unique blend of challenges and opportunities. This comparison aims to provide an honest reflection of both the difficulties and benefits associated with this relocation. By examining the advantages and disadvantages side by side, you can better prepare for the transition and make the most informed decision possible.
San Diego, CA- Higher living costs
- Less historical sites
- Heavy traffic
- Less seasonal change
Richmond, VA- Lower living costs
- Rich history
- Less traffic
- Distinct seasons
Richmond, VA- No beaches
- Less Mexican cuisine
- Colder winters
- Quieter nightlife
San Diego, CA- Beautiful beaches
- Better Mexican food
- Mild winters
- Vibrant nightlife
The lifestyle in both cities comes with its unique set of attractions and drawbacks. While the more affordable cost of living in Richmond can be quite appealing, one may miss the vibrant beach life and year-round mild climate of San Diego. Richmond, steeped in rich American history, offers a plethora of historical sites like the Virginia State Capitol and The American Civil War Museum, providing educational experiences at your doorstep. Neighborhoods such as The Fan and Carytown in Richmond are brimming with unique restaurants like The Fancy Biscuit and cultural sights that promise a lively and enriching community life. In contrast, San Diego's renowned Balboa Park and its array of museums, not to mention its unbeatable Mexican cuisine, set a high bar for culinary and cultural pursuits. Ultimately, the choice between San Diego's endless summers and Richmond's four-season charm depends on personal preferences and lifestyle priorities.
San Diego vs. Richmond Food Guide
Food is a pivotal element of local culture and provides insight into what life is like in a new area. In this guide, we're spotlighting the culinary scene to help you better understand the food landscape you're moving into. This is a comparison of the local cuisine between San Diego & Richmond, designed to familiarize you with each city's unique flavors and dining experiences.
| San Diego | Richmond | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Fish Tacos | Pimento Cheese |
| Most popular meat dish | Carne Asada | Barbecue Ribs |
| Most popular street food item | California Burrito | Fried Catfish |
| Most popular vegan food | Acai Bowl | Seitan Wings |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
San Diego's vibrant food scene is heavily influenced by its coastal location and Mexican heritage, making fish tacos and carne asada staples in the local diet. Neighborhoods like Little Italy host a range of eateries, including the innovative Juniper & Ivy. Meanwhile, in Richmond, the culinary landscape embraces Southern charm with a modern twist, exemplified by dishes like Pimento Cheese and the renowned barbecue ribs found in spots like Mama J's Kitchen. Both cities celebrate local flavors through an array of food trucks and vegan options, showcasing their commitment to diverse and health-conscious dining experiences.
San Diego vs. Richmond Restaurant Comparison
When moving from one city to another, finding your new favorite restaurant can make a new place feel like home. This chart offers a San Diego to Richmond restaurant comparison , pinpointing eateries where you can continue to indulge in the flavors you love. Whether you're a foodie, seeking casual bites, or after an iconic dining experience, this guide will help you navigate your culinary journey in your new city.
| San Diego | Richmond | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Juniper & Ivy | L'Opossum | Innovative, chef-driven cuisine with a playful twist |
| Mister A's | Lehja | Upscale dining with a view and exquisite meals |
| Hodad's | Burger Bach | Casual spot for gourmet burgers and craft beers |
| Phil's BBQ | ZZQ Texas Craft Barbeque | Authentic smoked meats that rival any San Diego pitmaster's |
| Cucina Urbana | Mama J's Kitchen | Comfort Italian meets Southern charm in this cozy eatery |
| Las Cuatro Milpas | En Su Boca | A go-to for Mexican fare with a creative flair |
| Sushi Ota | Sabai | A culinary journey to Thailand, similar to the authentic Japanese experience at Sushi Ota |
| George's at the Cove | The Boathouse | Waterfront views with fresh, high-quality ingredients |
| The Fish Market | Rappahannock Oyster Bar | Seafood lovers will revel in these fresh catches |
| Puesto | Don't Look Back Triple | Creative tacos in a fun, vibrant atmosphere |
Moving from San Diego with its diverse and vibrant dining scene, you'll find Richmond's culinary landscape equally enchanting. For instance, the comparison between Juniper & Ivy and L'Opossum highlights Richmond's ability to offer innovative dining experiences that push the envelope, much like San Diego's best. Similarly, while Hodad's gives you that classic Southern California burger experience, Burger Bach in Richmond steps up with its own unique twist on gourmet burgers and craft beers, ensuring that your burger cravings are well taken care of. Whether you're missing the refined tastes of Mister A's or the casual vibe of Hodad's, Richmond has a counterpart that promises to deliver not just a meal, but an experience.
Ready to start your move?
San Diego vs. Richmond Real Estate & Living Facts
Real estate is crucial when moving. Knowing how San Diego, CA and Richmond, VA compare in the housing landscape can dramatically influence your decision-making process. This comparison will illuminate differences in cost, lifestyle, and amenities, assisting in navigating your relocation with greater ease.
| Comparison | San Diego | Richmond |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Spanish Colonial, Modern | Colonial, Victorian |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Ocean views, outdoor living spaces | Historical features, proximity to parks |
When considering moving from San Diego to Richmond, the drastic difference in the median home price and monthly rent stands out, making Richmond an attractive option for those looking to maximize their budget. The architecture in Richmond often includes charming colonial and Victorian homes that appeal to those who appreciate historical character, while San Diego's homes lean towards Spanish Colonial and Modern designs, often emphasizing ocean views and outdoor living. Richmond rates higher in walkability and bikeability, which could significantly affect your daily life, offering easier access to the city’s rich historical sites and lush parks. This contrast in lifestyle and community amenities between the two cities can play a crucial role in deciding your next home base.
Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Richmond, VA
1. The Fan: Famed for its high walkability scores, dog-friendly restaurants like City Dogs, and numerous pet boutiques, The Fan ensures your furry friend will be well-catered to.
2. Shockoe Bottom: With access to places like Chimney Park, a dedicated dog park, and a plethora of pet-friendly housing options, Shockoe Bottom offers a bustling, pet-friendly environment.
3. Museum District: Known for its tree-lined, walkable streets, the Museum District combines convenience for you and quality of life for your pets with places like Barky's, a popular pet store.
San Diego vs. Richmond Weather Considerations
When planning a move, it's crucial to understand how the weather in San Diego, CA, and Richmond, VA will impact your daily life. This comparison will help you adjust to the new conditions by highlighting key differences.
San Diego, CA
Richmond, VA
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
San Diego, CA
Richmond, VA
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
San Diego, CA
Richmond, VA
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
San Diego, CA
Richmond, VA
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | San Diego | Richmond |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Good | Moderate |
| Natural Disasters | Earthquakes, Wildfires | Hurricanes, Floods |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
Moving from San Diego to Richmond introduces dramatic changes, particularly in weather patterns. Richmond experiences a wider range of temperatures with hot, humid summers and cold winters that include snowfall—something rarely seen in San Diego. Additionally, Richmond's higher annual rainfall and frequent thunderstorms contrast with San Diego's milder, drier climate. Understanding these differences can help you prepare for the change, from wardrobe adjustments to home maintenance considerations.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from San Diego to Richmond
If you're moving, understanding the financial landscape from San Diego to Richmond is essential. This comparison will illuminate how cost of living, taxes, and economic factors adjust between these locales, making your transition smoother.
| Comparison | San Diego | Richmond |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $93,042 | $51,770 |
| Cost of Living Index | 132.3 | 104.5 |
| State Income Tax | 1 - 13.3 | 2 - 5.75 |
| Avg. Property Tax | 0.77 | 0.80 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 7.75 | 5.3 |
| Top 3 Industries | Military, Manufacturing, Tourism | Government, Finance, Education |
| Affluence | High | Moderate |
| Poverty | Moderate | Moderate |
| Homelessness | High | Low |
In transitioning from San Diego to Richmond, you'll note a significant difference in living expenses. For instance, the cost of living in San Diego is significantly higher than in Richmond, which means you might find yourself with more disposable income after moving. Notably, the average household income is higher in San Diego, which correlates with its higher cost of living. However, Richmond offers a more balanced economic environment, with lower state income taxes that could benefit your financial health. Understanding these key differences can help you make informed decisions about housing, spending, and saving in your new city.
San Diego vs. Richmond Political & Religious Comparison
When relocating from San Diego, CA, to Richmond, VA, it's invaluable to understand the distinctive characteristics of your new environment. This comparison will provide a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents between San Diego & Richmond, aiding in a smoother transition.
| San Diego | Richmond | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Lean Liberal | Lean Liberal |
| Local Politics | Diverse representation | Historically significant |
| Religion | Mix with notable Catholic and Evangelical communities | Varied, with a strong presence of Protestant and Baptist communities |
In transitioning from San Diego to Richmond, you'll find both cities share a liberal political leaning, though the local political landscape and history in Richmond are uniquely rich, influenced heavily by its role in American history. Religious life in both cities is vibrant and diverse, with San Diego hosting a mix of Catholic and Evangelical believers, while Richmond has a strong Protestant and Baptist presence, reflecting the historical roots of Virginia. Understanding these dynamics can help you connect with your new community more effectively.
San Diego vs. Richmond Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Moving from San Diego, CA to Richmond, VA? This comparison of the traffic and transportation options between San Diego & Richmond will help you better understand what the daily commute and traffic is like, ensuring a smoother transition to your new city.
| Comparison | San Diego | Richmond |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 25 | 23 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | Possible, but challenging | Difficult |
In San Diego, the average commute time slightly exceeds that of Richmond, with the traffic congestion also being more pronounced. San Diego offers a reasonably good public transit system, highlighted by services like the San Diego Metropolitan Transit System, making it somewhat easier to get around without a car compared to Richmond. However, Richmond's smaller scale and less congested roads make it a bit more manageable for those who prefer driving. Despite the lower availability score for public transit in Richmond, initiatives like the Greater Richmond Transit Company (GRTC) are making efforts to improve connectivity and reduce the need for a personal vehicle.
Additional Resources
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