Best Washington DC to San Diego Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from Washington DC to San Diego and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 2,772 mile move from DC to California go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 37 Washington DC to San Diego 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 Bookstore Movers), how much the move costs (approximately $3,000 - $10,000 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Washington DC compared to San Diego. 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 Washington DC to San Diego Moving Companies
| Rank | Company Name | Rating  | Affordability Index | License | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Bookstore Movers | 9.60 | 9.55 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 2 | Mic's Moving | 9.59 | 9.56 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 3 | The Rock Movers | 9.49 | 9.53 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 4 | Coast 2 Coast Moving, Inc. | 9.46 | 9.62 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 5 | Ap Pro Moving Llc | 9.43 | 9.39 | Active | Contact |
(800) 787-5428Cost to Move from Washington DC to San Diego
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 2,772 miles from Washington DC, DC to San Diego, CA will cost on average $4,139 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Washington DC to San Diego move is roughly $10,006. 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 | $2,774 | 300 ft³ | 9.25 |
| 1 Bedroom | $4,139 | 450 ft³ | 9.20 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $6,860 | 750 ft³ | 9.15 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $10,006 | 1100 ft³ | 9.10 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $14,475 | 1600 ft³ | 9.05 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $16,194 | 1800 ft³ | 9.00 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from San Diego to Washington DC guide.
Compare the 5 Best Washington DC to San Diego Movers
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
Bookstore Movers
5200 46th Ave
Hyattsville, MD, 20781
About Bookstore Movers
Locally owned and operated, Bookstore Movers was founded in 2005 with a dedication to customer service, personalization, and small business values....
Services
- Local moving
- Long-distance moving
- Cross-country moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2005212 / 707471 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 21 |
| Registered Drivers | 21 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 153,245 (2019) |
Mic's Moving
1250 9th st. nw
Washington DC, DC, 20011
About Mic's Moving
Mic's Moving is a locally owned and operated moving company that focuses on providing a personalized moving experience to residential and...
Services
- Local Move
- Long Distance Moving
- Labor Only: Loading, Unloading and In-house moves
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2474176 / 856657 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 7 |
| Registered Drivers | 7 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 40,000 (2019) |
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) |
Ap Pro Moving Llc
5021 Seminary Rd # 822
Alexandria, VA, 22311
About Ap Pro Moving Llc
Ap Pro Moving LLC is a reliable and professional moving company based in Arlington, VA. They offer various services such as...
Services
- Local Moving
- Long Distance Moving
- Packing Services
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3338902 / - Active Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 1 |
| Registered Drivers | 2 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 4,000 (2021) |
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.
Washington DC vs. San Diego Neighborhood Comparison
Moving across the country can be a daunting task, especially when relocating from the bustling, historic landscapes of Washington DC to the laid-back, sunny shores of San Diego. To ease this transition, it’s helpful to understand how your future surroundings compare to your current ones. In this guide, we compare the local neighborhoods between Washington DC, DC & San Diego, CA , helping you find a new area that feels like home.
| Washington DC | San Diego | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Dupont Circle | Hillcrest | Vibrant, LGBTQ+-friendly |
| Georgetown | La Jolla | Upscale, coastal charm |
| Capitol Hill | North Park | Rich in history, artsy |
| Adams Morgan | Normal Heights | Diverse, nightlife-centric |
| Columbia Heights | University Heights | Multicultural, family-friendly |
| U Street Corridor | Gaslamp Quarter | Entertainment hotspot, historic |
| Logan Circle | Little Italy | Trendy, culinary hotspot |
| Navy Yard | East Village | Growth, modern living |
| Shaw | Golden Hill | Creative, vibrant community |
| Foggy Bottom | Point Loma | Quiet, scenic views |
For instance, if you're enchanted by the historic facades and cobblestone streets of Georgetown with its high-end boutiques like Cady's Alley, you'll find a similar upscale, coastal vibe in La Jolla, known for its breathtaking sea cliffs and luxury shopping along Prospect Street. Conversely, lovers of Dupont Circle's vibrant, inclusive atmosphere will feel right at home in Hillcrest, celebrated for its spirited LGBTQ+ community and events such as the annual San Diego Pride Parade. Meanwhile, the Capitol Hill residents accustomed to a neighborhood steeped in history but buzzing with modern eateries and shops would appreciate North Park's rich heritage and arts scene, highlighted by landmarks such as the North Park Theater and local favorites like Belching Beaver Brewery. Each neighborhood, whether in DC or San Diego, holds its unique charm, ready to welcome you with open arms and new adventures.
Things to Do in San Diego
Visit the San Diego Zoo- Tour the USS Midway Museum
- Explore Balboa Park
- Relax at Coronado Beach
- Dine in Little Italy
- Experience SeaWorld San Diego
- Play golf at Torrey Pines
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Washington DC to San Diego
Moving from Washington DC, DC to San Diego, CA presents a unique opportunity to evaluate both cities. This comparison aims to show an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of this relocation, detailing the upsides and drawbacks of exchanging the nation's capital for the sun-drenched beaches of Southern California.
Washington DC, DC- High cost of living
- Humid summers
- Political saturation
- Less beach access
San Diego, CA- Lower taxes
- Milder climate
- Laid-back lifestyle
- Better beach access
San Diego, CA- Smaller cultural scene
- Car dependency
- Fewer landmarks
- Different career landscape
Washington DC, DC- Cultural diversity
- Public transportation
- Historical landmarks
- Strong job market
In Washington DC, you're surrounded by monumental landmarks, from the National Mall to the Smithsonian Museums. Moving to San Diego will change your local vistas to the captivating shores of La Jolla Beach and the bustling Gaslamp Quarter. Although you might miss DC’s comprehensive Metro system, San Diego’s coastal roads and scenic drives, like the one through the Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve, offer a different kind of commute. Yes, the cultural and political heartbeat of DC is unique, but San Diego's diverse neighborhoods, from the historic charms of Old Town to the craft beer haven in North Park, provide a laid-back lifestyle with their own brand of cultural richness. Adding value to your day-to-day are San Diego's numerous outdoor activities, such as surfing at Ocean Beach or exploring Balboa Park, home to the famous San Diego Zoo.
Washington DC vs. San Diego Food Guide
This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Washington DC & San Diego, highlighting the significance of food as a vibrant part of local culture. Understanding the culinary scene of your new city is crucial for a smooth transition and enhancing your living experience.
| Washington DC | San Diego | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Half-smoke | Fish Tacos |
| Most popular meat dish | Mumbo Sauce Chicken Wings | Carne Asada |
| Most popular street food item | Food Truck Hot Dogs | California Burritos |
| Most popular vegan food | Chickpea Curry | Avocado Toast |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
In San Diego, the local food scene is as dynamic as its coastal views. The city's love for fish tacos can be experienced in neighborhoods such as La Jolla and Ocean Beach, with spots like George's at the Cove offering stunning ocean panoramas alongside your meal. The carne asada, another local favorite, highlights the city's rich Mexican culinary influence, best experienced in areas like Little Italy or the Gaslamp Quarter. San Diego's higher ratings in health consciousness reflect in its offerings of vegan options and abundance of fresh produce, most notably in cafes and farmer's markets spread across the city. This coastal city not only caters to your taste buds but does so with an eye on health and wellness.
Washington DC vs. San Diego Restaurant Comparison
Food plays a crucial part in making a new city feel like home. This comparison aims to bridge the culinary gap for those moving from Washington DC to San Diego, helping you find your next favorite dining spots by leveraging familiar tastes from your current city.
| Washington DC | San Diego | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Rose's Luxury | Juniper & Ivy | Both offer innovative American cuisine with a focus on fresh, local ingredients. |
| Zaytinya | Meze Greek Fusion | Captures a similar Mediterranean spirit, offering a modern take on Greek dishes. |
| Le Diplomate | Bleu Bohème | Both deliver a captivating French bistro experience with classic dishes and an intimate atmosphere. |
| Ben's Chili Bowl | Hodad's | While distinct in cuisine, both are iconic to their cities for casual, hearty eats. |
| Fancy Radish | Kindred | Both are beloved for their innovative and delicious vegan offerings in a unique and inviting setting. |
| Bad Saint | Maum Tacos | Known for their small, cozy vibe and standout Filipino food, Maum Tacos brings a similar culinary finesse. |
| Fiola Mare | Eddie V's Prime Seafood | Both offer an upscale dining experience with exceptional seafood and waterfront views. |
| The Dabney | Campfire | Emphasizing a farm-to-table approach with a rustic, wood-fired cooking style, they mirror The Dabney's charm. |
| 2 Amy's | Buona Forchetta | A haven for pizza enthusiasts seeking authentic Neapolitan pies and a warm, family-friendly atmosphere. |
| Little Serow | Supannee House of Thai | Both are known for their detailed attention to traditional, flavorful dishes in an intimate setting. |
If you're searching for an experience that seamlessly blends the culinary essence of Washington DC with San Diego's vibrant food scene, look no further. For instance, Rose's Luxury and Juniper & Ivy both stand out for their commitment to fresh, local ingredients, promising an unforgettable dining experience that emphasizes American cuisine with a creative twist. Similarly, lovers of Mediterranean flavors will be captivated by the parallel between Zaytinya and Meze Greek Fusion, where modern interpretations of Greek dishes delight the palate. Meanwhile, for an evening of French flair, Le Diplomate and Bleu Bohème offer classic bistro dishes in atmospheres that transport you to the streets of Paris. Whether it's the casual charm and historical significance of Ben's Chili Bowl mirrored in the laid-back vibe of Hodad's or the vegan innovative plates of Fancy Radish finding a counterpart in Kindred, these comparisons aim to ease your transition and spice up your dining adventures in your new city.
Ready to start your move?
Washington DC vs. San Diego Real Estate & Living Facts
When planning a move, assessing real estate between Washington DC and San Diego is crucial. This comparison guides you through various housing aspects, including cost, architecture, and lifestyle, to inform your decision-making process.
| Comparison | Washington DC | San Diego |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Colonial, Federal | Spanish Revival, Modern |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Proximity to monuments, Historic details | Ocean views, Access to outdoor recreation |
When comparing housing between Washington DC and San Diego, key differences emerge. Washington DC's historic architecture contributes to its unique charm, with many homes boasting details from the Colonial and Federal periods. Conversely, San Diego's real estate market often highlights Spanish Revival styles and modern amenities, catering to those seeking a seamless blend of historical richness and contemporary living. The emphasis on outdoor recreation and ocean views in San Diego listings reflects the city's vibrant lifestyle and its residents' preference for nature and adventure, contrasting with Washington DC's urban-centric attractions and historic appeal.
Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in San Diego, CA
1. Ocean Beach: Known for its laid-back vibe, Ocean Beach features Dog Beach, where your furry friends can play off-leash in the surf and sand.
2. North Park: A neighborhood that embraces pet owners, North Park offers several pet-friendly dining options and the Morley Field Dog Park for off-leash fun.
3. Little Italy: This vibrant neighborhood not only has multiple pet-friendly patios for dining but also hosts the annual Little Italy Doggie Street Festival, celebrating pets and their families.
Washington DC vs. San Diego Weather Considerations
Moving from one location to another brings about a slew of considerations, with weather being a major factor. This comparison aims to highlight the weather differences you will experience when moving from Washington DC to San Diego. Understanding these variations will help you prepare for your new environment.
Washington DC, DC
San Diego, CA
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Washington DC, DC
San Diego, CA
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Washington DC, DC
San Diego, CA
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Washington DC, DC
San Diego, CA
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Washington DC | San Diego |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Moderate | Good |
| Natural Disasters | Snowstorms, hurricanes | Earthquakes, wildfires |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
When transitioning from Washington DC to San Diego, you'll notice a significant difference in weather patterns that may impact your daily life and hobbies. San Diego enjoys more days of sunshine and has milder temperatures year-round, meaning fewer dramatic shifts between seasons. The lower annual rainfall and lack of snowfall in San Diego compared to Washington DC might be welcome news for those weary of cold winters and wet springs. However, adjusting to San Diego's potential for natural disasters, such as earthquakes and wildfires, compared to the snowstorms and occasional hurricanes in Washington DC, will require some preparation and awareness.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Washington DC to San Diego
When planning your move from one city to another, it's essential to comprehend the financial variations you'll encounter. This comparison aims to illuminate the key economic differences between Washington DC and San Diego, focusing on aspects such as income, taxes, and cost of living, to better prepare you for your relocation.
| Comparison | Washington DC | San Diego |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $90,088 | $93,042 |
| Cost of Living Index | 140.1 | 132.3 |
| State Income Tax | 8.5 | 9.3 |
| Avg. Property Tax | 0.56 | 0.76 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 6.0 | 7.75 |
| Top 3 Industries | Government, Professional & Technical Services, Education & Health Services | Defense/Military, Tourism, International Trade |
| Affluence | Highly affluent | Very affluent |
| Poverty | Low | Moderate |
| Homelessness | Moderate | High |
The move from Washington DC to San Diego involves navigating differences in several financial aspects that influence daily life and future plans. While the average household income in San Diego is slightly lower than in D.C., the cost of living index in San Diego is also higher, indicating that your expenses may increase despite the potentially lower income. Additionally, state and sales taxes are higher in California, impacting your overall budget. These variations are crucial to consider, especially when planning housing, daily expenditures, and savings. Understanding the dominant industries in San Diego can also aid in your career trajectory, as it differs significantly from D.C., shifting from government and professional services to defense, tourism, and trade. Being prepared for these changes will help smoothen your transition between these two vibrant cities.
Washington DC vs. San Diego Political & Religious Comparison
Welcome! If you're planning a move from Washington DC to San Diego, understanding the cultural landscape is key. This quick comparison provides an at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents in both cities, helping you gauge the social climate of your prospective neighborhoods.
| Washington DC | San Diego | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Heavily Democratic | Leans Democratic |
| Local Politics | Focused on Federal & Local Governance | Emphasizes Environmental & Social Issues |
| Religion | Diverse; significant Protestant & Catholic communities | Varied; notable Catholic, Protestant, and increasing non-religious demographic |
Washington DC's politic landscape is deeply ingrained with federal and local governance considerations, reflecting its status as the nation's capital and its high Democratic voter base. In contrast, San Diego also leans Democratic but with a strong focus towards environmental sustainability and social issues, indicative of its coastal culture. The religious landscape in both cities mirrors the diversity of their populations. DC hosts a significant number of Protestant and Catholic communities, interwoven with the historic churches and political structures of the city. Similarly, San Diego's religious demographics include a large Catholic base amidst a broader spectrum of faiths and an increasing number of residents identifying as non-religious, showcasing the city’s more laid-back and diverse cultural approach to spirituality.
Washington DC vs. San Diego Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Moving from Washington DC to San Diego is a significant change, especially when it comes to navigating daily commutes. This comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Washington DC & San Diego is designed to help you better understand what your daily commute and traffic might look like in these cities.
| Comparison | Washington DC | San Diego |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 34.9 | 26.1 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | Yes | Challenging |
In contrast to the more car-dependent lifestyle of San Diego, Washington DC offers extensive public transportation options, with services like the Metro and bus lines covering a significant part of the city and its suburbs. This makes living without a car in DC not only possible but sometimes more convenient due to its high traffic congestion. On the other hand, while San Diego does have public transit systems like the MTS bus and trolley lines, the city's layout and lifestyle heavily favor car ownership, making daily life potentially more manageable with personal transport.
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