Best Albuquerque to Salinas Movers + Moving Guide
Want help with the heavy lifting?
If you're moving from Albuquerque to Salinas and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 1,007 mile move from New Mexico to California go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 13 Albuquerque to Salinas 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 JP Moving), how much the move costs (approximately $2,000 - $6,500 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Albuquerque compared to Salinas. 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 Albuquerque to Salinas Moving Companies
Rank | Company Name | Rating | Affordability Index | License | Contact |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
1 | JP Moving | 9.37 | 9.63 | Authorized For Property | Contact |
2 | Mod Movers | 8.79 | 8.1 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
3 | Poulos Moving Systems | 8.34 | 8.48 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
4 | Pro-Move Logistics | 8.09 | 7.78 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
5 | Two Men and a Truck | 8.04 | 7.44 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
Cost to Move from Albuquerque to Salinas
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 1,007 miles from Albuquerque, NM to Salinas, CA will cost on average $2,638 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Albuquerque to Salinas move is roughly $6,337. 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 | $1,773 | 300 ft³ | 5.91 |
1 Bedroom | $2,638 | 450 ft³ | 5.86 |
2 Bedrooms | $4,358 | 750 ft³ | 5.81 |
3 Bedrooms | $6,337 | 1100 ft³ | 5.76 |
4 Bedrooms | $9,138 | 1600 ft³ | 5.71 |
5+ Bedrooms | $10,190 | 1800 ft³ | 5.66 |


Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Salinas to Albuquerque guide.
Compare the 5 Best Albuquerque to Salinas Movers
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)

JP Moving
1503 Golf Course Rd SE # D
Rio Rancho, NM, 87124
About JP Moving
JP Moving is a licensed and insured moving company based in Rio Rancho, NM. It provides residential and commercial moving services...
Services
- Local Moving
- Residential Moving
- Commercial Moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3585744 / 1212778 Authorized For Property Carrier/Shipper |
Registered Trucks/Vans | 3 |
Registered Drivers | 4 |
Total Annual Miles Moved | 10,000 (2022) |

Mod Movers
1118 Airport Way STE 100
Monterey, CA, 93940
About Mod Movers
Mod Movers is one of the top-rated moving companies in Northern California. This locally-owned business in Monterey operates throughout the Golden...
Services
- Local Movers
- Long Distance Movers
- Interstate Movers
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2983026 / 1294330 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
Registered Trucks/Vans | 4 |
Registered Drivers | 4 |
Total Annual Miles Moved | 20,000 (2023) |

Poulos Moving Systems
222 Commission St
Salinas, CA, 93901
About Poulos Moving Systems
A locally owned and operated moving company that started in 2009, Poulos Moving Systems is proud to continue providing reliable and...
Services
- Local Moves
- Office Moves
- Intrastate Moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2618126 / 1016606 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
Registered Trucks/Vans | 9 |
Registered Drivers | 6 |
Total Annual Miles Moved | 39,036 (2022) |

Pro-Move Logistics
7608 Crouch Ct
Santa Fe, NM, 87507
About Pro-Move Logistics
Pro-Move Logistics is a top-rated full-service company with over 15 years of experience serving residential and commercial customers in Santa Fe...
Services
- Local Moving
- Long Distance Moving
- International Moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3942498 / 1464643 Authorized For Property, HHG Carrier |
Registered Trucks/Vans | 5 |
Registered Drivers | 3 |
Total Annual Miles Moved | 15,000 (2023) |

Two Men and a Truck
514 Carmony Road NE
Albuquerque, NM, 87107
About Two Men and a Truck
Two Men and a Truck is a national move company that has offices locally and has been voted "best moving company...
Services
- Local Moving
- Junk Removal
- Storage
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2907535 / 978867 Authorized For Property, HHG Carrier |
Registered Trucks/Vans | 21 |
Registered Drivers | 18 |
Total Annual Miles Moved | 456,215 (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.
Albuquerque vs. Salinas Neighborhood Comparison
Embarking on a move can often feel like stepping into the unknown. To ease this transition, we've created a resource to help you match the vibe and characteristics of your Albuquerque, NM neighborhood with a new area in Salinas, CA. Through a comparison of the local neighborhoods between Albuquerque, NM & Salinas, CA, we aim to make the unfamiliar feel familiar. By understanding the similarities between neighborhoods, you can better envision your new life in Salinas.
Albuquerque | Salinas | How They're Similar |
---|---|---|
Nob Hill | Maple Park | Vibrant & historic |
Old Town | South Salinas | Rich in history |
Ridgecrest | University Park | Peaceful with green spaces |
Huning Highland Historic District | Mission Park | Charming & historic |
North Valley | CreekBridge | Family-friendly & scenic |
Corrales | Toro Park | Rural feel, spacious |
Downtown Albuquerque | Oldtown/Downtown Salinas | Urban and lively |
Four Hills Village | Las Palmas Ranch | Upscale & residential |
Sandia Heights | Corral de Tierra | Luxurious & serene |
Taylor Ranch | Laurelwood | Family-oriented & active |
Nob Hill in Albuquerque, known for its vibrant nightlife and historic charm, can be likened to Maple Park in Salinas, where classic homes line the streets, and a sense of community thrives. If you're drawn to the historic allure and artisanal shops of Old Town Albuquerque, you'll find a similar vibe in South Salinas, known for its well-preserved buildings and rich history. For those who appreciate the peaceful, green spaces of Ridgecrest, University Park in Salinas offers tranquil parks and community spaces, perfect for leisurely afternoon strolls. Huning Highland Historic District’s charm and architectural beauty can be mirrored in Mission Park, a neighborhood where historic homes and friendly faces are abundant. Each of these neighborhoods in Salinas, while unique in their own right, holds a comforting semblance to the beloved communities left behind in Albuquerque.

Things to Do in Salinas
- Explore Pinnacles National Park.
- Enjoy wine tasting at River Road Wine Trail.
- Visit the Monterey County Agricultural & Rural Life Museum.
- Stroll along Salinas River Walk.
- Attend California Rodeo Salinas.
- Shop at Oldtown Salinas.
- Take a class at Heidi’s Studio.
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Albuquerque to Salinas
Moving from one city to another brings about a mix of emotions and practical considerations. This comparison aims to present an honest reflection of Albuquerque, NM to Salinas, CA , evaluating the challenges and benefits of such a relocation. Through this approach, you can weigh the pros and cons, ultimately making an informed decision that suits your lifestyle and preferences.
- Higher crime rate
- Hot summers
- Less agricultural access
- Lower crime rate
- Milder climate
- Fresh local produce
- Higher cost of living
- Fewer cultural sites
- Lesser outdoor diversity
- Lower cost of living
- Rich cultural heritage
- Vast outdoor activities
While weighing your options between Albuquerque, NM, and Salinas, CA, consider the lifestyle each city offers. Albuquerque's vibrant mix of cultures is reflected in its food, art, and festivals, attributes that can be missed when moving. However, Salinas presents an opportunity to engage more directly with California's rich agricultural backbone, boasting local markets like the Salinas Sunday Certified Farmers' Market. The milder climate in Salinas also lends itself well to exploring outdoor activities along the Pacific coast, albeit with less variety than Albuquerque's expansive desert landscapes and national parks. Despite the higher cost of living in Salinas, this can be offset by the unique quality of life, including access to fresh produce, lower crime rates, and proximity to major Californian cities, making it an enticing proposition for those looking for a change.
Albuquerque vs. Salinas Food Guide
This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Albuquerque & Salinas to help you understand the food scene where you're moving. Food is a central aspect of local culture and can deeply influence your living experience in a new area.
Albuquerque | Salinas | |
---|---|---|
Most iconic local food item | Green Chile | Artichokes |
Most popular meat dish | Carne Adovada | Tri-tip |
Most popular street food item | Breakfast Burritos | Fish Tacos |
Most popular vegan food | Blue Corn Tacos | Vegetable Tostadas |
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
In Albuquerque, the local cuisine is deeply influenced by its Mexican and Native American heritage, with green chile appearing in everything from breakfast burritos to fine dining dishes. You can enjoy carne adovada at El Modelo, a restaurant that has been serving traditional New Mexican food since 1929. Moving to Salinas, known as the "Salad Bowl of the World," its cuisine reflects its rich agricultural surroundings, especially artichokes and lettuces. You'll find the tri-tip, a cut of beef that's popular in Central California, perfectly grilled at Tarpy's Roadhouse. Both cities offer a vibrant food scene, but Salinas leans more towards fresh, farm-to-table dining experiences, given its proximity to some of the nation's most productive farms.
Albuquerque vs. Salinas Restaurant Comparison
Finding comfort in a new city often starts with discovering great places to eat. This comparison of top restaurants in Albuquerque and their counterparts in Salinas, CA is designed to help you transition smoothly by uncovering your next go-to eateries, making the new area feel like home. Armed with this guide, settling into Salinas will be a tasteful journey, echoing beloved Albuquerque flavors.
Albuquerque | Salinas | What You'll Love |
---|---|---|
Antiquity Restaurant | Patria | Offers a similar intimate and refined dining experience |
Frontier Restaurant | Eagle Restaurant | Known for hearty portions and a casual atmosphere |
El Pinto | Rancho Cielo Drummond Culinary Academy | Unique, mission-driven dining with local flavors |
Sadie's of New Mexico | La Casa del Sazón | Authentic, hearty Mexican meals with a home-cooked feel |
Farina Pizzeria | Giorgio's at 201 Main | Artisanal pizza with a creative twist |
La Cumbre Brewing Company | Alvarado Street Brewery | Craft beer enthusiasts will appreciate the quality and variety |
Mary & Tito's Cafe | Gabilan Pizza | For the love of unique, local spots with a story |
The Grove Cafe & Market | First Awakenings | Perfect for homemade, fresh breakfast and lunch options |
M'Tucci's Italian | Giuseppe's | Classic Italian with a personal, family-owned touch |
Frenchish | Bistro Moulin | European flair and finesse in every dish |
While the mere mention of Antiquity Restaurant invokes thoughts of upscale, refined dining back in Albuquerque, Patria in Salinas is ready to become your new special occasion go-to with its similar intimate ambiance and exquisite menu. For those who find solace in a comforting, hearty breakfast, the transition from The Grove Cafe & Market to First Awakenings will feel seamless, offering a fresh start to the day with high-quality ingredients and a cozy atmosphere. Craft beer aficionados leaving behind La Cumbre Brewing Company's renowned selection will find a new haven in Alvarado Street Brewery, where the passion for craft beer is equally evident in their diverse offerings and vibrant community vibe.

Ready to start your move?
Albuquerque vs. Salinas Real Estate & Living Facts
Real estate is a crucial aspect of moving, and understanding how housing costs and lifestyles in Albuquerque compare with those in Salinas can significantly affect your decision-making process. This comparison aims to provide insight into the various factors including cost, architecture, and living aspects of both cities.
Comparison | Albuquerque | Salinas |
---|---|---|
Typical Architecture Style | Pueblo Revival | Modern and Ranch |
Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Mountain views, open floor plans | Close to agriculture, spacious lots |
When considering the move from Albuquerque to Salinas, it's important to note the stark differences in housing costs. With Salinas' median home price at $550,000, more than double that of Albuquerque, budget plays a significant role in the decision. However, Salinas offers a unique closeness to agricultural lands, making it ideal for those valuing spacious outdoor environments and farm-to-table living. On the flip side, Albuquerque's renowned Pueblo Revival architecture and the panoramic mountain views offer a distinct charm that many find irresistible. The desirability of both cities extends beyond just the numbers, influenced by lifestyle preferences and cultural offerings.

Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Salinas, CA
1. South Salinas: Known for its family-friendly atmosphere, South Salinas offers several parks and open spaces where your pets can enjoy a walk, including the popular Central Park where dogs can roam freely in designated off-leash areas.
2. CreekBridge: This neighborhood is recognized for its walkable paths and proximity to the Natividad Creek Park, a beautiful place for dog owners looking for scenic walks and outdoor activities to enjoy with their furry friends.
3. Laurelwood: Laurelwood stands out for its quiet streets and access to pet-friendly facilities, including several dog parks and the nearby Petco for all your pet's needs, making it a convenient and pleasant neighborhood for pet owners.
Albuquerque vs. Salinas Weather Considerations
When planning a move from Albuquerque, NM to Salinas, CA, it's crucial to anticipate how the shift in climate will affect your daily life and activities. Understanding the differences in weather patterns between these two cities will help you prepare for your new environment.
Albuquerque, NM
Salinas, CA
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Albuquerque, NM
Salinas, CA
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Albuquerque, NM
Salinas, CA
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Albuquerque, NM
Salinas, CA
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Comparison | Albuquerque | Salinas |
---|---|---|
Air Quality | Good | Moderate |
Natural Disasters | Wildfires, Floods | Earthquakes, Floods |
Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
Moving from Albuquerque to Salinas, you'll notice a significant change in the climate's temperature and moisture levels. Albuquerque's high desert climate features hot summers and chilly winters with low humidity throughout the year. In contrast, Salinas offers a milder, more temperate climate year-round, with higher humidity and more rainfall. This shift may affect your lifestyle, from the type of clothing you'll wear, to the outdoor activities you enjoy, and even how your body responds to the different allergens in each area. Adapting to these differences will be key to making your transition smoother.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Albuquerque to Salinas
When deciding to move from Albuquerque, NM to Salinas, CA, it's crucial to understand the financial implications. Comparing the cost of living, tax rates, and overall economical landscapes between these cities will ease your transition and financial planning.
Comparison | Albuquerque | Salinas |
---|---|---|
Avg. Household Income | $58,512 | $80,154 |
Cost of Living Index | 96.45 | 136.4 |
State Income Tax | 4.9 | 9.3 |
Avg. Property Tax | 0.78 | 0.79 |
Avg. Sales Tax | 7.875 | 9.25 |
Top 3 Industries | Technology, Manufacturing, Healthcare | Agriculture, Manufacturing, Healthcare |
Affluence | Modest | Comparatively affluent |
Poverty | Notable | Present |
Homelessness | Significant | Considerable |
Moving from Albuquerque to Salinas involves adjusting to a higher cost of living, with Salinas having a cost of living index significantly above the national average. However, the average household income in Salinas is also higher, which can help mitigate the impact. Besides the financial adjustments, you'll be shifting from a city where technology and manufacturing lead the economy to one where agriculture plays a key role. Despite the economic differences, both cities face challenges with homelessness and poverty, underscoring the importance of community support and social services in each location.
Albuquerque vs. Salinas Political & Religious Comparison
In preparing for your move from Albuquerque, NM, to Salinas, CA, it's useful to understand the communities you'll be joining. This comparison provides a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents between Albuquerque & Salinas, helping you gauge the cultural and ideological environment of your new home.
Albuquerque | Salinas | |
---|---|---|
Political Make-up | Largely Democratic | Largely Democratic |
Local Politics | Diverse representation in local government | Community-focused with a strong agricultural influence |
Religion | Mixed; significant Catholic population | Mixed; strong Catholic and Protestant presence |
Both Albuquerque and Salinas share a Democratic political leaning, reflecting in their voting patterns during national elections. However, the fabric of local politics varies, with Albuquerque enjoying diverse representation, while Salinas boasts a community-oriented political scene with a significant emphasis on agriculture, given its role as a predominant economic activity in the region. On the religious front, both cities harbor a mix of faiths, though the Catholic Church plays a strong role in community activities and social services in each area. This shared, yet distinct, cultural landscape will make your transition an interesting journey.
Albuquerque vs. Salinas Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Moving from Albuquerque, NM to Salinas, CA, requires an understanding of the differences in daily commute and traffic. This comparison will help you better understand what the daily commute and traffic is like between Albuquerque & Salinas.
Comparison | Albuquerque | Salinas |
---|---|---|
Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 25 | 23 |
Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
Can you get by without car? | Challenging | Variable |
In both Albuquerque and Salinas, the average commute time is quite similar, hinting at a manageable journey for work or study. However, Salinas demonstrates a slightly higher level of traffic congestion than Albuquerque, possibly reflecting its proximity to other bustling Californian cities. While public transportation is present in both cities, Albuquerque scores slightly higher in terms of availability, suggesting a more developed system or coverage. Yet, owning a car is a significant advantage in both cities. In Albuquerque, it's considered challenging to rely solely on public transit due to the city's spread-out nature. In contrast, Salinas offers a bit more flexibility, where while having a car is beneficial, there might be more options for those looking to commute without one.



Additional Resources
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