Best San Diego to Seattle Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from San Diego to Seattle and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 1,254 mile move from California to Washington go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 40 San Diego to Seattle 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 Seattle Moves & More), how much the move costs (approximately $2,000 - $7,000 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in San Diego compared to Seattle. 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 Seattle Moving Companies
| Rank | Company Name | Rating  | Affordability Index | License | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Seattle Moves & More | 9.54 | 9.39 | 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 | John Volken Academy Movers | 9.33 | 9.65 | 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 Seattle
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 1,254 miles from San Diego, CA to Seattle, WA will cost on average $2,848 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom San Diego to Seattle move is roughly $6,851. 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 | $1,913 | 300 ft³ | 6.38 |
| 1 Bedroom | $2,848 | 450 ft³ | 6.33 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $4,709 | 750 ft³ | 6.28 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $6,851 | 1100 ft³ | 6.23 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $9,885 | 1600 ft³ | 6.18 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $11,030 | 1800 ft³ | 6.13 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Seattle to San Diego guide.
Compare the 5 Best San Diego to Seattle Movers
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
Seattle Moves & More
4601 Shilshole Ave NW
Seattle, WA, 98107
About Seattle Moves & More
Based in Seattle, Seattle Moves & More is a licensed, insured, and premier moving company in Seattle, WA, known for its...
Services
- Residential & Commercial Moving
- Long-Distance Relocation
- Furniture Packing and Unpacking
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2962927 / 5796 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 1 |
| Registered Drivers | 5 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 31,000 (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) |
John Volken Academy Movers
921 Central Ave N
Kent, WA, 98032
About John Volken Academy Movers
John Volken Academy Movers is a not-for-profit moving company that helps people move across Western and Eastern Washington. This local business...
Services
- Local Moving
- Commercial Moving
- Residential Moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2261169 / 1666977 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 6 |
| Registered Drivers | 8 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 200 (2015) |
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. Seattle Neighborhood Comparison
Moving can feel like a leap into the unknown, especially when it comes to finding a new neighborhood that feels like home. To ease this transition, we've crafted a guide that compares the local neighborhoods between San Diego, CA & Seattle, WA . By identifying neighborhoods in Seattle that share a similar vibe, culture, and amenities to those in San Diego, we hope to make you feel right at home in your new city.
| San Diego | Seattle | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| La Jolla | Queen Anne | Stunning views, affluent |
| North Park | Capitol Hill | Vibrant nightlife, artsy |
| Gaslamp Quarter | Belltown | Lively, dining and entertainment hub |
| Pacific Beach | Ballard | Beach vibes, bustling nightlife |
| Hillcrest | Capitol Hill | LGBTQ+-friendly, eclectic dining |
| Ocean Beach | Fremont | Laid-back, counterculture spirit |
| Little Italy | Pioneer Square | Historic, rich in culture |
| Del Mar | Madison Park | Upscale, peaceful beach town feel |
| Carmel Valley | Green Lake | Family-friendly, outdoor activities |
| Mission Hills | Queen Anne | Historical charm, quiet residential |
In exploring these neighborhood pairings, you'll find that Seattle and San Diego share a dynamic blend of community vibes that cater to a multitude of preferences and lifestyles. For example, the scenic beauty and elite atmosphere of La Jolla are mirrored by Queen Anne's sweeping views of Seattle and its stately homes. If you thrive in the vibrant and artsy environment of North Park, you'll love Capitol Hill with its eclectic bars, restaurants like Mamnoon, and the ever-popular Capitol Hill Block Party. Meanwhile, the laid-back, beachy spirit of Ocean Beach finds its counterpart in Fremont, known for its annual Solstice Parade and unique landmarks such as the Fremont Troll. These neighborhoods not only resemble each other in atmosphere and demographics but also offer a plethora of parks, dining options, and local sights, ensuring you'll find a new home in Seattle that resonates with the San Diego lifestyle you cherish.
Things to Do in Seattle
Visit the Space Needle for iconic city views.- Explore Pike Place Market's unique shops.
- Relax at Green Lake Park.
- Discover art at Seattle Art Museum.
- Enjoy a ferry ride to Bainbridge Island.
- Watch a Mariners baseball game at T-Mobile Park.
- Hike in Mount Rainier National Park.
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from San Diego to Seattle
Moving from San Diego, CA to Seattle, WA presents a complex mix of advantages and disadvantages. In this comparison, we aim to present an honest reflection of the good and bad attributes of this relocation, highlighting how each city's unique characteristics might affect your life. Through carefully constructed charts, we will contrast the cons of leaving San Diego with the pros of moving to Seattle , and vice versa, to give you a comprehensive overview of what to expect.
San Diego, CA- High living costs
- Sunny weather
- Beach access
- Limited rainfall
Seattle, WA- More affordable housing
- Lush greenery
- Outdoor adventures
- Seasonal variety
Seattle, WA- More rain
- Less sunshine
- Smaller beaches
- Less nightlife variety
San Diego, CA- Warm climate
- Outdoor lifestyle
- Cultural diversity
- Vibrant nightlife
When you move from San Diego to Seattle, you exchange endless sunny days and beach outings for a life amidst lush green landscapes and frequent rainfalls that nourish the city’s vast parks, such as the expansive Discovery Park and the tranquil Japanese Garden at the Washington Park Arboretum. Seattle's renowned outdoor activities, like hiking in the Cascades or kayaking on Lake Union, offer a different but equally fulfilling lifestyle. While San Diego boasts a variety of cultural festivals and a vibrant nightlife concentrated in areas like the Gaslamp Quarter, Seattle counters with its unique music scene, historic Pioneer Square, and innovative dining experiences, such as those found in Pike Place Market. Though you may miss San Diego’s consistently warm weather, Seattle’s seasonal variations provide a beautiful backdrop to city life, with cherry blossoms in spring and brilliant fall colors in the Arboretum.
San Diego vs. Seattle Food Guide
When relocating, diving into the local food scene is pivotal to understanding and embracing the culture of your new home. Here, we embark on a comparison of the local cuisine between San Diego & Seattle , providing you with a taste of what each city has to offer and allowing you to feel more at home once you've moved.
| San Diego | Seattle | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | California Burrito | Salmon |
| Most popular meat dish | Carne Asada | Teriyaki |
| Most popular street food item | Tacos | Piroshky |
| Most popular vegan food | Avocado Toast | Vegan Pho |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
In San Diego, the fusion of Mexican and American cuisines gives rise to its iconic California Burrito, while Seattle's proximity to the ocean ensures salmon is a staple in local diets. For those who indulge in carnivorous delights, Carne Asada reigns supreme in San Diego, whereas Teriyaki, influenced by Seattle's significant Asian-American community, serves as a must-try meat option. The San Diego food scene thrives in neighborhoods like Little Italy and North Park, where one can enjoy meals from Phil's BBQ or the famous Hodad's. On the other hand, Seattle offers a diverse range of culinary experiences, from the upscale dining at Canlis to the bustling Pike Place Market where foodies can relish fresh seafood like oysters from Elliott's Oyster House and handmade Piroshky.
San Diego vs. Seattle Restaurant Comparison
When moving from San Diego, CA to Seattle, WA , discovering a new dining scene is pivotal for feeling at home. This comparison aims to ease the transition by matching San Diego's top restaurants to their Seattle equivalents , ensuring you can find a new favorite with ease. Whether it's high-end dining, casual eats, or iconic spots, this guide will help bridge the culinary gap between the two cities.
| San Diego | Seattle | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Juniper & Ivy | Canlis | Both are iconic for their innovative American cuisine and upscale dining experience. |
| Phil's BBQ | Jack’s BBQ | Both renowned for smoked meats and a laid-back atmosphere. |
| Lolita's Mexican Food | El Camión | Authentic Mexican meals that capture the essence of casual yet flavorful dining. |
| Cucina Urbana | Spinasse | While Italian at heart, both offer a sophisticated twist on traditional dishes, making for a memorable dining experience. |
| The Crack Shack | Bok a Bok Fried Chicken | Both specialize in gourmet chicken dishes, offering casual dining with a punch of flavor. |
| George's at the Cove | Ray’s Boathouse | Seafood lovers will find solace in these restaurants’ focus on fresh, local catches and stunning views. |
| Extraordinary Desserts | Molly Moon's Homemade Ice Cream | A sweet tooth’s haven, both shops offer unique and decadent sweet treats. |
| Puesto | Barrio | Both are beloved for their modern take on Mexican cuisine and vibrant atmospheres. |
| Pizza Port | Delancey | For the love of pizza, both spots craft pies that pay homage to the art of pizza making. |
| Cowboy Star | The Butcher's Table | Steak enthusiasts will appreciate the focus on quality cuts and refined rustic dining at both locations. |
By delving into the dining options that Seattle offers, new residents can find comfort and excitement in local flavors that reflect those they cherished in San Diego. For instance, Canlis in Seattle mirrors Juniper & Ivy's commitment to culinary excellence and innovation, providing an upscale dining experience that's hard to forget. Likewise, El Camión's authentic Mexican food offers a taste of home that's reminiscent of Lolita's Mexican Food, ensuring comfort through familiar flavors. Seattle's culinary scene, with places like The Butcher's Table, not only offers a new spot for steak lovers to gather but also exudes the warmth and quality reminiscent of Cowboy Star, making it easier for newcomers to settle in and find their go-to spots in a new city.
Ready to start your move?
San Diego vs. Seattle Real Estate & Living Facts
When considering a move, it's critical to compare the real estate markets of your current and future homes. Understanding how San Diego and Seattle stack up against each other in terms of housing can make your transition smoother. This comparison covers cost, architecture, and lifestyle.
| Comparison | San Diego | Seattle |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Spanish Colonial, Modern | Craftsman, Contemporary |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Pools, Ocean Views | Mountain Views, Eco-friendly Features |
In comparing San Diego and Seattle, you'll find that both cities offer unique living experiences geared towards diverse lifestyles. San Diego's real estate highlights include homes with Spanish Colonial architecture and features like pools and ocean views, emphasizing outdoor living and leisure. Seattle, on the other hand, leans towards Craftsman and contemporary styles, with listings often boasting mountain views and eco-friendly features. This reflects Seattle's emphasis on sustainability and nature. Moreover, Seattle ranks higher in walkability and urban lifestyle, suggesting a more condensed urban experience compared to the sprawling layout of San Diego. Whether your priority is being close to the ocean or having sustainable living options, both cities have distinct characters that cater to different preferences.
Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Seattle, WA
1. Ballard: With its numerous off-leash dog parks, Ballard is ideal for your furry friends to run free and socialize.
2. Green Lake: Known for the pet-friendly Green Lake Park, you and your pet will enjoy the scenic 2.8-mile trail and ample green space for play.
3. Queen Anne: This neighborhood is packed with pet-friendly cafes and shops, plus it offers easy access to Kinnear Park's off-leash area, making it a perfect spot for pet owners.
San Diego vs. Seattle Weather Considerations
If you're moving from one location to another, it's important to understand how the weather will compare to what you are used to. This comparison will help you adjust better and plan accordingly. Explore how the weather in San Diego and Seattle differs to make your transition smoother.
San Diego, CA
Seattle, WA
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
San Diego, CA
Seattle, WA
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
San Diego, CA
Seattle, WA
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
San Diego, CA
Seattle, WA
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | San Diego | Seattle |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Good | Moderate |
| Natural Disasters | Wildfires, Earthquakes | Earthquakes, Landslides |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
When comparing the weather in San Diego and Seattle, you'll find noteworthy differences that might affect your lifestyle. While both cities enjoy mild summers, Seattle's winter temperatures are considerably lower than San Diego's, necessitating warmer clothing and potentially affecting your daily routine. Seattle also experiences more rainy days, which contributes to its lush green scenery but might require an adjustment if you're used to the abundant sunshine of San Diego. Furthermore, the differences in air quality and natural disasters between the two locations highlight the importance of preparing for the specific challenges each city faces.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from San Diego to Seattle
When planning a move from one city to another, comparing the financial landscape is crucial. Our chart highlights San Diego and Seattle's financial aspects , helping you gauge how your financial life might shift. Understanding the cost of living, taxes, and income potential in both locations can ease your transition.
| Comparison | San Diego | Seattle |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $93,042 | $110,781 |
| Cost of Living Index | 132.3 | 121.4 |
| State Income Tax | 1% - 13.3% | 0% |
| Avg. Property Tax | 0.77% | 0.99% |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 7.75% | 10.1% |
| Top 3 Industries | Defense/Military, Tourism, International Trade | Technology, Aerospace, Maritime |
| Affluence | High | Very High |
| Poverty | Moderate | Low |
| Homelessness | Significant | High |
The financial landscapes of San Diego and Seattle display marked differences that could affect your living standards after moving. Seattle's higher average household income reflects its thriving economy, driven significantly by the technology and aerospace industries. However, this income comes with a higher cost of living, notably in housing and sales taxes, which could offset the advantage of having no state income tax. Moreover, each city's unique economic makeup —from San Diego's defense and tourism to Seattle's tech boom— presents varied job opportunities and living conditions that are important to consider in planning your move.
San Diego vs. Seattle Political & Religious Comparison
This guide aims to provide you with a quick, at-a-glance snapshot to understand the political and religious makeup of the residents when moving from San Diego, CA to Seattle, WA . Knowing this can help you get a sense of the community vibes in each city.
| San Diego | Seattle | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Lean Democratic | Strongly Democratic |
| Local Politics | Mixed on various issues, moderate | Progressive on most issues |
| Religion | Varied, with a notable Catholic presence SD Catholic | Less religiously affiliated overall |
While both San Diego and Seattle lean towards Democratic values, your experience in local politics will likely shift considerably as Seattle is known for its progressive stance on many issues, from environmental policies to social justice. In terms of religion, if you're moving from San Diego, you might notice a change, as Seattle tends to have a higher percentage of residents who identify as non-religious. However, both cities embrace a variety of faiths and sects, ensuring you'll likely find a community that fits your beliefs.
San Diego vs. Seattle Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Moving from San Diego, CA to Seattle, WA? This guide compares the traffic and transportation options between the two cities to help you understand what the daily commute and traffic is like. Whether considering public transit availability or wondering if you can get by without a car, we've got you covered.
| Comparison | San Diego | Seattle |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 24.7 | 27.7 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | Yes, with some difficulty | Yes, more easily |
In both cities, the average commute time reflects the urban spread and density, however, Seattle has a slightly higher average due to its more pronounced traffic congestion. This is mirrored by Seattle's higher public transit score, indicating a more developed and accessible public transportation system compared to San Diego. This also contributes to the ease of living without a car in Seattle versus San Diego, where it might be slightly more challenging but still possible. For those moving from San Diego to Seattle, it's encouraging to know that adapting to the transport and traffic dynamics in Seattle may be smoother than anticipated.
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