Best Cary to San Diego Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from Cary to San Diego and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 2,553 mile move from North Carolina to California go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 31 Cary 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 - $9,500 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Cary 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 Cary 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 | Raleigh Moving Company | 9.42 | 9.6 | Active | Contact |
| 4 | Athens Moving Experts | 9.34 | 9.49 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 5 | Capital Moving & Storage | 9.26 | 9.47 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
(800) 787-5428Cost to Move from Cary to San Diego
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 2,553 miles from Cary, NC to San Diego, CA will cost on average $3,952 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Cary to San Diego move is roughly $9,551. 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 | $2,650 | 300 ft³ | 8.83 |
| 1 Bedroom | $3,952 | 450 ft³ | 8.78 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $6,550 | 750 ft³ | 8.73 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $9,551 | 1100 ft³ | 8.68 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $13,813 | 1600 ft³ | 8.63 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $15,449 | 1800 ft³ | 8.58 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from San Diego to Cary guide.
Compare the 5 Best Cary 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) |
Raleigh Moving Company
Raleigh, NC, 27609
About Raleigh Moving Company
Raleigh Moving Company is a locally owned and operated moving company offering residential and commercial services for local and long-distance moves...
Services
- Free estimates
- Full Value Protection (FVP)
- Fully licensed and insured
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3344628 / - Active Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 1 |
| Registered Drivers | 2 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | - |
Athens Moving Experts
This listing has been claimed by Athens Moving Experts6601 Hillsborough St # 111
Raleigh, NC, 27606
About Athens Moving Experts
Since 2015, Athens Moving Experts has helped Raleigh, Chapel Hill, Holly Springs, and communities across North Carolina with their residential and...
Services
- Local Moving Services
- Long Distance Moving Services
- Commercial Moving Services
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3205320 / 204920 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 5 |
| Registered Drivers | 5 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 25,000 (2021) |
Capital Moving & Storage
3450 Bush St Suite 245
Raleigh, NC, 27609
About Capital Moving & Storage
Capital Moving & Storage, a family-owned company based in Raleigh, NC, has been providing high-quality moving services for over 20 years....
Services
- Residential & Commercial Moving
- Local & Long Distance Moving
- Packing
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3623752 / 1238777 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 3 |
| Registered Drivers | 4 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 120,504 (2023) |
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.
Cary vs. San Diego Neighborhood Comparison
Embarking on a move can feel like navigating uncharted territories, especially when transitioning from one city to another. Our goal is to bridge that gap by offering a comparison of the local neighborhoods between Cary, NC & San Diego, CA . By identifying similar neighborhoods in your new city, we hope to make your move feel less daunting and more like finding a new home with familiar comforts.
| Cary | San Diego | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Amberly | Carmel Valley | Family-friendly, excellent schools |
| Preston | La Jolla | Upscale, coastal living |
| Carpenter Village | Point Loma | Historic, with a strong community vibe |
| Lochmere | Del Mar | Beachside living, picturesque views |
| Wellington Park | North Park | Diverse, vibrant nightlife |
| Highcroft | Scripps Ranch | Quiet, suburban feel |
| Green Hope Crossing | Black Mountain Ranch | Close to nature, family-centric |
| Maynard Oaks | Hillcrest | Lively, with a strong sense of community |
| Twin Lakes | Coronado | Exclusive, island living |
| Regency | Rancho Bernardo | Golf courses, relaxed living |
Imagine swapping the tree-lined streets of Preston in Cary, with its manicured golf courses and rolling landscapes, for the breathtaking coastal views and luxurious atmosphere of La Jolla. Here, the convergence of sophisticated living and natural beauty parallels Preston's charm but adds the irresistible allure of oceanfront vistas. Fans of Cary's Carpenter Village, known for its close-knit community and historical appeal, will find a similar sentiment in Point Loma. In Point Loma, the Cabrillo National Monument offers rich historical insights, and the community gatherings are reminiscent of Carpenter Village’s serene, familial atmosphere. For those who enjoy Cary's Wellington Park's diverse culinary options and lively evenings, North Park in San Diego will captivate you with an even broader spectrum of dining experiences at places like Urban Hawk, and an eclectic nightlife that ensures every outing is memorable.
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 Cary to San Diego
Moving from one city to another brings both opportunities and challenges. This guide aims to provide an honest reflection on the good and the bad attributes of relocating from Cary, NC to San Diego, CA . By comparing the pros and cons, you'll gain a clearer picture of what to expect and how to prepare for your move.
Cary, NC- Smaller city
- Less diverse cuisine
- Humid summers
- Lesser job opportunities in certain sectors
- Less vibrant nightlife
San Diego, CA- Larger city vibes
- Varied food scene
- Mild climate
- More job opportunities
- Livelier nightlife
San Diego, CA- Higher cost of living
- Busier urban lifestyle
- Heavier traffic
- Less personal interactions
- Smaller public spaces
Cary, NC- More affordable housing
- Quiet suburban feel
- Lower traffic density
- Close-knit community
- Greener, spacious parks
Relocating from Cary, NC, to San Diego, CA, means transitioning from a smaller, more laid-back community to a bustling city with an expansive job market, particularly in sectors like technology and biotech. San Diego's well-known Balboa Park offers not only green spaces but also hosts museums, such as the San Diego Museum of Art, and the San Diego Zoo, providing both leisure and educational opportunities. The food scene is significantly more diverse, where venues like Lolita's Mexican Food and Phil's BBQ illustrate the cultural and culinary richness of the area. While the cost of living and traffic might present challenges, San Diego's vibrant nightlife and mild climate offer a compensating balance. The transition from Cary's quieter settings to San Diego's dynamic environment encapsulates a journey of exploration and opportunity.
Cary vs. San Diego Food Guide
Food forms an integral aspect of local culture and the lifestyle within a region. To assist in your move, we will embark on a comparison of the local cuisine between Cary, NC, and San Diego, CA , giving you a flavorful preview of your new home's culinary scene.
| Cary | San Diego | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | North Carolina BBQ | Fish Tacos |
| Most popular meat dish | Pulled Pork | Carne Asada |
| Most popular street food item | Hot Dogs | California Burritos |
| Most popular vegan food | BBQ Jackfruit | Acai Bowl |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
In Cary, the devotion to BBQ speaks to its Southern roots, with pulled pork being a staple, while hot dogs reign supreme in street food. Vegan options like BBQ Jackfruit adapt traditional tastes to modern diets. San Diego, meanwhile, celebrates its proximity to the ocean with signature fish tacos and introduces a Mexican flair with its beloved carne asada. The city's health-conscious vibe is reflected in its popular acai bowls and the thriving vegan scene. For a taste of local favorites in San Diego, neighborhoods like Little Italy and Ocean Beach offer vibrant food scenes, encapsulating the city's diverse culinary offerings.
Cary vs. San Diego Restaurant Comparison
Understanding that food plays a pivotal role in making a new area feel like home, this comparison aims to bridge the culinary gap for those moving from Cary, NC to San Diego, CA by highlighting comparable top restaurants. Discover your next favorite eatery by exploring familiar flavors and dining experiences in a new city.
| Cary | San Diego | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Lucky 32 Southern Kitchen | Juniper & Ivy | High-end Southern cuisine with a modern twist |
| La Farm Bakery | Con Pane Rustic Breads & Cafe | Artisan bakery known for exceptional breads and pastries |
| Bosphorus Restaurant | The Kebab Shop | Authentic Mediterranean and Turkish dishes with a contemporary feel |
| Cinebistro | The LOT La Jolla | Cinema with upscale dining experiences, offering a similar concept |
| Sassool | Saffron Thai | Specializing in traditional flavors, offering a taste of Middle Eastern spices through Thai cuisine |
| Doherty's Irish Pub & Restaurant | The Field Irish Pub | Authentic Irish pub atmosphere with traditional dishes and live music |
| Pizzeria Faulisi | Buona Forchetta | Neapolitan pizzas crafted in wood-fired ovens, reminiscent of Italy's authentic taste |
| Herons | George’s at the Cove | Offers exquisite dining with an emphasis on local and sustainable cuisine |
| Tribeca Tavern | Burgers & Brew | Casual spot with a focus on gourmet burgers and a wide beer selection |
| Once in a Blue Moon Bakery | Extraordinary Desserts | Famous for elaborate and decadent desserts, echoing the sweetness found at Blue Moon |
For those who cherish the blend of traditional and innovative Southern flavors, your dining experience at Juniper & Ivy in San Diego will evoke the same warmth and culinary excellence you've enjoyed at Lucky 32 Southern Kitchen in Cary. Similarly, if the charm of La Farm Bakery's artisan breads captivated you, Con Pane Rustic Breads & Cafe awaits in San Diego with its oven-fresh, handcrafted loaves. Enthusiasts of Mediterranean cuisine who frequented Bosphorus Restaurant will find a new haven in The Kebab Shop, where the essence of Turkish and Mediterranean dishes is celebrated with zeal. And for those special evenings, swapping the unique dine-in cinema experience at Cinebistro for The LOT La Jolla will continue to blend the best of film and fine dining under the stars of San Diego.
Ready to start your move?
Cary vs. San Diego Real Estate & Living Facts
When considering a move, diving into the real estate dynamics between your current city and your future home is crucial. This comparison between Cary, NC and San Diego, CA aims to highlight the key differences and similarities in housing costs, style, and overall lifestyle, ensuring you make an informed decision.
| Comparison | Cary | San Diego |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Suburban, Modern | Spanish, Modern |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Family-friendly, Green spaces | Beach proximity, Vibrant nightlife |
In comparing Cary, NC, and San Diego, CA, it's evident that San Diego commands a higher cost of living, particularly reflected in its housing costs. However, the premium comes with perks such as closer beach access and a more vibrant urban lifestyle, rated highly for its walkability and bikeability. Cary, on the other hand, offers a quieter, family-focused environment, with an emphasis on green spaces and modern suburban homes. While Cary may be more affordable, San Diego's allure includes its iconic Spanish and modern architectural mix and an active outdoor and social scene, enriching the living experience.
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.
Cary vs. San Diego Weather Considerations
When moving from Cary, NC to San Diego, CA, it's crucial to understand how the climate shifts. This guide compares the weather patterns between these cities, showing you what to expect. Through examining seasonal temperatures, humidity, and more, you'll discover how your life might change in San Diego compared to Cary.
Cary, NC
San Diego, CA
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Cary, NC
San Diego, CA
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Cary, NC
San Diego, CA
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Cary, NC
San Diego, CA
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Cary | San Diego |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Good | Moderate |
| Natural Disasters | Hurricanes, Tornadoes | Earthquakes, Wildfires |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
In transitioning from Cary to San Diego, you'll find the weather to be significantly milder and drier. San Diego's nearly perennial sunshine and absent snowfall symbolize the quintessential Californian dream, but it comes with its own set of challenges, like higher UV indices and potential for wildfires. Meanwhile, Cary's higher rainfall and occasional snow introduce a more varied seasonal experience. Adjusting to the drier climate in San Diego means staying hydrated and prepared for more sun exposure, along with a careful consideration of air quality and natural disaster preparedness in your new Pacific Coast home.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Cary to San Diego
When planning a move from one city to another, comprehending the financial implications is crucial. This comparison offers an insightful glance into the cost of living, taxes, and economic environments between Cary and San Diego , providing a clearer picture of what to expect budget-wise in your new locale.
| Comparison | Cary | San Diego |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $123,857 | $93,042 |
| Cost of Living Index | 95.85 | 132.3 |
| State Income Tax | 5.25 | 13.3 (max) |
| Avg. Property Tax | 0.86 | 0.76 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 7.25 | 7.75 |
| Top 3 Industries | Technology, Healthcare, Education | Defense/Military, Tourism, International Trade |
| Affluence | High | Moderately high |
| Poverty | Low | Moderate |
| Homelessness | Low | High |
When moving from Cary, NC to San Diego, CA, you'll encounter not just a change in scenery but a significant shift in economic factors. San Diego's higher cost of living index at 160 compared to Cary's 111 notably reflects the increased expenses you'll face, especially when considering housing and day-to-day costs. On the taxation front, although the base sales tax rates are somewhat comparable, San Diego's state income tax can climb substantially higher than Cary's flat rate. The shift in predominant industries—from Cary's technology-focused economy to San Diego's military and tourism-based economy—underscores the diversity in job opportunities between the two locations. Being aware of these differences can help you prepare financially for your move to ensure a smoother transition.
Cary vs. San Diego Political & Religious Comparison
The move from Cary, NC to San Diego, CA offers a fascinating glimpse into differing lifestyles and beliefs. This quick comparison aims to provide you with an overview of the political and religious makeup of the residents between Cary & San Diego , helping you understand the diverse cultural landscape you're transitioning into.
| Cary | San Diego | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Lean Conservative | Lean Liberal |
| Local Politics | Suburban governance, lower Democrat registration than state average | Urban governance, high Democrat registration |
| Religion | Higher Evangelical Protestant influence | Higher Catholic influence, San Diego Catholic Diocese |
In Cary, the political and religious landscape reflects its suburban nature, with a tendency towards conservatism, both politically and religiously, dominated by Evangelical Protestant beliefs. In contrast, San Diego's vibrant urban setting fosters a more liberal political climate, where the Democratic Party holds significant sway. The city's religious makeup is notably diverse, with a prominent Catholic presence, guided by institutions like the San Diego Catholic Diocese. Understanding these nuances can help you better adapt and connect with your new community.
Cary vs. San Diego Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Moving between cities can bring significant changes to your daily life, especially in terms of commuting. This comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Cary & San Diego will help you better understand what the daily commute and traffic is like, assisting in easing the transition.
| Comparison | Cary | San Diego |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 22 | 26 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | No | Yes, but it's challenging |
When comparing Cary and San Diego, it's evident that San Diego has a slightly higher average commute time and significantly more traffic congestion. While Cary provides a quieter, potentially faster commute, its public transportation options are notably limited, making car ownership nearly essential for daily travel. San Diego, on the other hand, offers more robust public transit options, though relying solely on these can still present challenges due to the city's layout and transit coverage gaps. Understanding these differences can be crucial for planning your daily commute in a new city.
Additional Resources
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Popular Cary to California Routes
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