Best Detroit to San Diego Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from Detroit to San Diego and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 2,355 mile move from Michigan to California go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 26 Detroit to San Diego 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 $2,500 - $9,000 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Detroit 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 Detroit to San Diego 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 | Grosse Pointe Moving & Storage Inc | 8.46 | 8.22 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 4 | Balance Detroit | 8.43 | 7.79 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
| 5 | High Quality Moving Company | 8.23 | 8.5 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
(800) 787-5428Cost to Move from Detroit to San Diego
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 2,355 miles from Detroit, MI to San Diego, CA will cost on average $3,784 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Detroit to San Diego move is roughly $9,140. 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 | $2,538 | 300 ft³ | 8.46 |
| 1 Bedroom | $3,784 | 450 ft³ | 8.41 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $6,269 | 750 ft³ | 8.36 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $9,140 | 1100 ft³ | 8.31 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $13,214 | 1600 ft³ | 8.26 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $14,776 | 1800 ft³ | 8.21 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from San Diego to Detroit guide.
Compare the 5 Best Detroit to San Diego 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) |
Grosse Pointe Moving & Storage Inc
11850 E Jefferson
Detroit, MI, 48214
About Grosse Pointe Moving & Storage Inc
Grosse Pointe Moving & Storage Inc is a full-service moving and storage company based in Detroit, Michigan. Founded in 1985, the...
Services
- Residential moving
- Commercial moving
- Corporate moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 279708 / 629575 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 5 |
| Registered Drivers | 6 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 28,000 (2023) |
Balance Detroit
Livonia, MI, 48150
About Balance Detroit
Located in Detroit, Balance Detroit is a reputable moving company offering a variety of services including white glove service, long-distance and...
Services
- White Glove Service
- Long Distance Moves
- Small Moves
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 4059339 / 1539936 Authorized For Property, HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 1 |
| Registered Drivers | 4 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 6,000 (2024) |
High Quality Moving Company
32401 W 8 Mile Rd
Livonia, MI, 48152
About High Quality Moving Company
High Quality Moving Company, based in Livonia, Michigan, has been serving the Detroit Metro Area since 2010. They offer a wide...
Services
- Residential Moving
- Commercial Moving
- Local Moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3435629 / 1178011 Authorized For Property, HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 2 |
| Registered Drivers | 2 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 80,000 (2024) |
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.
Detroit vs. San Diego Neighborhood Comparison
When embarking on a move from Detroit, MI, to San Diego, CA, getting to know your new city is crucial. By comparing local neighborhoods between Detroit, MI & San Diego, CA , we aim to help you find a new home that resonates with the community vibes you've grown to love. This guide will help you draw parallels between what you know and what you're about to discover.
| Detroit | San Diego | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Midtown | Hillcrest | Vibrant, cultural hub with thriving nightlife |
| Corktown | North Park | Historic, artsy area with craft beer scene |
| Downtown | Gaslamp Quarter | Bustling with entertainment and dining |
| Eastern Market | Little Italy | Renowned for its markets and eateries |
| Brush Park | Bankers Hill | Stately homes and lush greenery |
| Woodbridge | South Park | Community-focused with a local arts scene |
| Indian Village | Point Loma | Historic with a strong community feel |
| Palmer Woods | La Jolla | Upscale, with beautiful ocean views |
| Sherwood Forest | Del Mar | Quiet, exclusive, and family-friendly |
| Boston-Edison | Carmel Valley | Family-oriented with modern amenities |
Moving from Detroit's vibrant Midtown, famed for its cultural institutions like the Detroit Institute of Arts, to San Diego's Hillcrest will feel like home with its lively arts scene and popular annual Pride festival. If you adore the historic and laid-back vibe of Corktown with spots like Slows Bar BQ, you'll find a similar spirit in North Park, home to craft breweries and unique eateries like Urban Solace. For those leaving the hustle and bustle of Downtown Detroit for new adventures, San Diego’s Gaslamp Quarter offers an exciting mix of live music venues, rooftop bars, and fine dining experiences, ensuring the transition is as seamless as possible.
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 Detroit to San Diego
Moving from Detroit to San Diego offers a unique opportunity to weigh the benefits against the drawbacks. This comparison aims to provide an honest reflection of Detroit, MI to San Diego, CA , looking closely at what changes you might experience.
Detroit, MI- Colder Winters
- Higher Crime Rate
- Economic Challenges
- Less Outdoor Activities
San Diego, CA- Mild weather
- Lower Crime Rate
- Stronger Job Market
- Beaches & Parks
San Diego, CA- Higher Cost of Living
- Fewer Cultural Landmarks
- Less Tight-Knit Communities
- Less Seasonal Variety
Detroit, MI- Lower Cost of Living
- Rich Musical Heritage
- Strong Community Bonds
- Seasonal Changes
While San Diego's mild weather and abundance of outdoor activities, like the renowned Balboa Park and its many beautiful beaches, provide a stark contrast to Detroit's colder winters and fewer outdoor options, the move isn't without its challenges. San Diego's higher cost of living might be a significant adjustment from Detroit's more affordable lifestyle. However, the vibrant job market, particularly in tech and biotech sectors, can offer new opportunities. Neighborhoods like Hillcrest and North Park offer a rich tapestry of dining, nightlife, and boutique shopping, contrasting with Detroit's historic cultural landmarks like the Motown Museum. Despite the differences, both cities offer unique living experiences shaped by their history, culture, and communities.
Detroit vs. San Diego Food Guide
Understanding the culinary landscape of a new city is a crucial part of your relocation journey. Food reflects the local culture and what living in an area is truly like. With this in mind, we’ve crafted a detailed comparison of the local cuisine between Detroit & San Diego to help you get acquainted with the food scene in your new home.
| Detroit | San Diego | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Coney Island Hot Dog | Fish Tacos |
| Most popular meat dish | Detroit-style Pizza | Carne Asada |
| Most popular street food item | Detroit-style Pizza | California Burrito |
| Most popular vegan food | Seitan Kebabs | Vegan Tacos |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
In Detroit, the love for the Coney Island Hot Dog embodies the city's rich history in simplicity and flavor. Detroit-style Pizza, another beloved dish, reflects the city's innovation with its distinctive square shape and crispy crust. For a taste of this iconic pizza, Buddy’s Pizza is a must-visit spot. On the west coast, San Diego's culinary scene shines with its Fish Tacos, a staple that captures the essence of local seafood. The city's proximity to the ocean influences many popular dishes, including the fresh and flavorful Carne Asada and California Burrito. For those exploring the vegan lifestyle, San Diego's numerous vegan eateries, like those in the vibrant neighborhood of Hillcrest, offer an impressive array of choices, highlighting the city's health-conscious and inclusive approach to food.
Detroit vs. San Diego Restaurant Comparison
When relocating from Detroit, MI to San Diego, CA, finding familiar flavors is crucial to feeling at home. This restaurant comparison chart between Detroit and San Diego will help you discover your new go-to spots, echoing your old favorites. Whether upscale dining or casual eats, this guide aims to make your transition as delicious as possible.
| Detroit | San Diego | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Selden Standard | Juniper & Ivy | Modern and innovative dishes |
| Slows Bar BQ | Grand Ole BBQ | Authentic smoky flavors |
| Lafayette Coney Island | Coronado's Mexican Village | Classic and beloved local spot |
| Supino Pizzeria | Blue Ribbon Artisan Pizzeria | Expertly crafted pizzas |
| Grey Ghost Detroit | Ironside Fish & Oyster | Unique seafood offerings |
| Rose's Fine Food | Great Maple | Modern American comfort food |
| Antietam | Mister A's | Fine dining with city views |
| Chartreuse Kitchen & Cocktails | Craft & Commerce | Innovative cocktails and cuisine |
| Takoi | Bahn Thai | Authentic Thai flavors |
| Detroit Vegan Soul | Kindred | Vegan dishes with a unique twist |
For those who appreciate the art of barbecue, Slows Bar BQ in Detroit sets a high standard that Grand Ole BBQ in San Diego meets with its own authentic smoky offerings. If you're craving the unique Thai flavors that Takoi offers back in Detroit, Bahn Thai in San Diego does not disappoint, offering an authentic taste of Thailand with every dish. For the vegans who've loved Detroit Vegan Soul, San Diego's Kindred will surprise and delight with its creative plant-based dishes and quirky, goth-inspired ambiance. Whether it's the freshly prepared, artisanal pizzas reminiscent of Supino Pizzeria you're after or the innovative and modern dishes that Selden Standard is renowned for, San Diego’s dining scene has a satisfying counterpart that will make you feel right at home.
Ready to start your move?
Detroit vs. San Diego Real Estate & Living Facts
Real estate significantly impacts your relocation journey, making it crucial to understand how Detroit's and San Diego's housing markets fare. From costs to lifestyle, this comparison provides an in-depth look at what your life could look like in these contrasting cities.
| Comparison | Detroit | San Diego |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Historic Bungalows | Spanish Colonial |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Renovated, spacious | Ocean view, modern |
When considering a move from Detroit to San Diego, the stark contrasts in housing costs and living conditions come to the forefront. Detroit's housing market is notably more affordable, with median home prices and rents significantly lower than in San Diego. However, San Diego compensates with its higher walkability and bikeability scores, indicative of a more active outdoor lifestyle that’s enhanced by its temperate climate. Furthermore, while Detroit offers historic bungalows, San Diego’s real estate boasts Spanish Colonial architecture and modern homes, often with coveted ocean views, reflecting its coastal lifestyle. This comparison suggests that while your cost of living may increase, so will your quality of life and access to outdoor activities.
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.
Detroit vs. San Diego Weather Considerations
When planning a move from Detroit, MI, to San Diego, CA, comprehending the weather differences can prepare you for a change in lifestyle. This comparison highlights how Detroit's and San Diego's climates differ, ensuring you know what to expect in your new home.
Detroit, MI
San Diego, CA
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Detroit, MI
San Diego, CA
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Detroit, MI
San Diego, CA
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Detroit, MI
San Diego, CA
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Detroit | San Diego |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Moderate | Good |
| Natural Disasters | Blizzards, Tornadoes | Earthquakes, Wildfires |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
Moving from Detroit to San Diego means embracing a milder, more consistent climate. San Diego boasts more sunny days and significantly less humidity, leading to an overall drier climate that many find preferable. The absence of snow in San Diego contrasts sharply with Detroit's wintry mix, offering a year-round outdoor lifestyle without the need for heavy coats or snow shovels. However, newcomers should be prepared for the specific natural disaster risks in California, such as earthquakes and wildfires, which differ from the blizzards and tornadoes common in Michigan.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Detroit to San Diego
Moving from one city to another involves significant changes, especially when it comes to finances. Understanding the cost of living and how it compares between Detroit, MI and San Diego, CA is crucial for planning a successful relocation.
| Comparison | Detroit | San Diego |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $36,140 | $93,042 |
| Cost of Living Index | 99.4 | 132.3 |
| State Income Tax | 4.25 | 9.3 |
| Avg. Property Tax | 2.3 | 0.76 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 6 | 7.75 |
| Top 3 Industries | Automotive, Manufacturing, Technology | Defense/Military, Tourism, International Trade |
| Affluence | Lower | Higher |
| Poverty | Higher | Lower |
| Homelessness | Significant | Significant |
When moving from Detroit to San Diego, you'll notice significant differences in living costs and household incomes. While the average household income in San Diego is significantly higher, the cost of living index also dramatically increases, primarily due to housing costs. Taxation is another important difference, with California having higher state income and sales tax rates. Despite these financial disparities, San Diego's economic landscape is bolstered by robust industries like defense, tourism, and trade, offering a variety of employment opportunities. It's important to consider these factors to ensure a smooth transition to your new home.
Detroit vs. San Diego Political & Religious Comparison
This is a comparison of the politics between Detroit & San Diego, providing a concise overview of the political and religious landscape among their residents. This snapshot aims to offer insights valuable for anyone considering the move.
| Detroit | San Diego | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Heavily Democratic | Lean Democratic |
| Local Politics | Focus on economic recovery, community policing | Emphasis on environmental policy, housing affordability |
| Religion | Christianity predominates, with a significant Muslim community | Diverse, with Christianity leading but a growing number of non-affiliated individuals |
Moving from Detroit to San Diego, you'll find a shift in the political climate. While both cities lean Democratic, San Diego's political conversations often revolve around environmental policies and housing affordability, reflecting its residents' concerns about sustainability and living costs. Additionally, San Diego boasts a diverse religious landscape, where you'll notice a broader acceptance of varied beliefs, including a significant number of people who identify as non-affiliated. This diversity extends to local politics too, where policies reflect a wide range of priorities from environmental issues to social equity. Understanding these nuances will help you adapt more quickly to your new home.
Detroit vs. San Diego Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Moving from Detroit, MI, to San Diego, CA, presents a significant change in your daily commute and traffic experiences. This comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Detroit & San Diego is designed to help you better understand what the daily commute and traffic is like.
| Comparison | Detroit | San Diego |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 25 | 26 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | Difficult | Moderately feasible |
In Detroit, you might find yourself more reliant on a car due to the lower availability and coverage of public transit options. The average commute time is marginally shorter than in San Diego, with notably less traffic congestion. San Diego, on the other hand, although experiencing slightly more traffic, offers better public transit options. The city has a well-developed network that includes buses and the San Diego Trolley, making it more feasible to live without a car compared to Detroit. This difference highlights the importance of considering your commuting preferences and lifestyle when moving between these two cities.
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