Best New York City to San Diego Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from New York City to San Diego and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 2,836 mile move from New York to California go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 64 New York City 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 JP Urban Moving), 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 New York City 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 New York City to San Diego Moving Companies
| Rank | Company Name | Rating  | Affordability Index | License | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | JP Urban Moving | 9.85 | 9.78 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 2 | Metropolis Moving | 9.72 | 9.62 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 3 | Flex Moving and Storage | 9.68 | 9.74 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
| 4 | The Rock Movers | 9.49 | 9.53 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 5 | Coast 2 Coast Moving, Inc. | 9.46 | 9.62 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
(800) 787-5428Cost to Move from New York City to San Diego
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 2,836 miles from New York City, NY to San Diego, CA will cost on average $4,193 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom New York City to San Diego move is roughly $10,139. 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 | $2,810 | 300 ft³ | 9.37 |
| 1 Bedroom | $4,193 | 450 ft³ | 9.32 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $6,951 | 750 ft³ | 9.27 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $10,139 | 1100 ft³ | 9.22 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $14,668 | 1600 ft³ | 9.17 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $16,412 | 1800 ft³ | 9.12 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from San Diego to New York City guide.
Compare the 5 Best New York City to San Diego Movers
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
JP Urban Moving
266 St Marks Ave 3rd fl
Brooklyn, NY, 11238
About JP Urban Moving
JP Urban Moving is a small family-owned business in Brooklyn with over 15 years of experience. Its goal is always to...
Services
- Local NYC Moving
- Long Distance Moving
- Office Moving, Business Moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2096754 / 882954 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 8 |
| Registered Drivers | 8 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 120,000 (2022) |
Metropolis Moving
476 Jefferson St
Brooklyn, NY, 11237
About Metropolis Moving
Metropolis Moving is a top-rated, licensed, and insured Brooklyn mover serving the greater Tri-State area, including all of Long Island and...
Services
- Local moving services
- Long-distance moving services
- Commercial moving services
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 4277979 / 1662478 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 2 |
| Registered Drivers | 4 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 1 (2023) |
Flex Moving and Storage
276 Greenpoint Ave 287, Suite
Brooklyn, NY, 11222
About Flex Moving and Storage
With its domicile in Astoria, New York, Flex Moving and Storage carries a decade long European establishment. The company's range of...
Services
- Local moves
- Commercial moves
- Long distance moves
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3610638 / 1229716 Authorized For Property, HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 2 |
| Registered Drivers | 2 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 25,000 (2022) |
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) |
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.
New York City vs. San Diego Neighborhood Comparison
Moving across the country can be a daunting task, especially when you're leaving a city as vibrant and diverse as New York City, NY. This comparison of local neighborhoods between New York City, NY & San Diego, CA aims to make your transition smoother. By aligning top neighborhoods from NYC with their San Diego counterparts, you'll be able to find a new home that retains the familiar feel of your old one.
| New York City | San Diego | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Williamsburg | North Park | Hipster-friendly, craft breweries |
| Upper East Side | La Jolla | Affluent, ocean views |
| SoHo | Little Italy | Trendy shops, dining |
| Greenwich Village | Hillcrest | LGBTQ+ friendly, vibrant nightlife |
| Midtown | Downtown San Diego | Bustling, commercial |
| Chelsea | Gaslamp Quarter | Artsy, entertainment district |
| Harlem | Golden Hill | Cultural diversity, historic homes |
| Tribeca | Del Mar | Upscale, beachside community |
| Financial District | La Mesa | Business-friendly, suburban feel |
| Lower East Side | Normal Heights | Eclectic, community vibe |
When exploring the vibrant neighborhoods of San Diego, similarities with New York's iconic locales become apparent, enriching your relocation adventure. North Park echoes Williamsburg's creative spirit, boasting an eclectic mix of art galleries, like the San Diego Art Department, alongside top-tier craft breweries such as Modern Times Beer. La Jolla, paralleling the Upper East Side, offers upscale shopping and stunning ocean vistas, not to mention the world-renowned La Jolla Cove for sea lion spotting. Meanwhile, Hillcrest, akin to Greenwich Village, serves as the heart of San Diego's LGBTQ+ scene, complete with rainbow flag-adorned bars and the annual San Diego Pride. Each of these neighborhoods in San Diego not only mirrors the essence of its New York counterpart but also invites you to delve into its unique local culture, parks, and gastronomy.
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 New York City to San Diego
Moving across the country can be a transformative adventure, yet it's vital to weigh the changes with a clear perspective. This comparison aims to offer an honest reflection of the good and the bad aspects of relocating from New York City, NY to San Diego, CA . By contrasting the cons with the pros and vice versa, you'll gain a nuanced understanding of what to expect from such a significant move.
New York City, NY- High living costs
- Cold winters
- Busy, noisy environment
- Long commutes
San Diego, CA- More affordable housing
- Mild, sunny climate
- Relaxed lifestyle
- Less traffic congestion
San Diego, CA- Quieter nightlife
- More homogeneous culture
- Car-centric city
- Narrower job market
New York City, NY- Vibrant nightlife
- Diverse cultural scene
- Extensive public transit
- Multiple job opportunities
In transitioning from the bustling streets of New York City to the laid-back vibes of San Diego, you'll find the change in pace refreshing, yet it may take some getting used to. San Diego offers a myriad of outdoor activities thanks to its mild climate, letting you enjoy famous beaches like La Jolla Shores or Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve year-round. In contrast, NYC's dynamic cultural scene, from Broadway shows to diverse dining options in areas like the East Village, presents an unmatched vibrancy. However, San Diego counters with its own culinary delights, such as fresh, innovative eats at Little Italy and iconic spots like Balboa Park that combine natural beauty with cultural institutions. While the job market in San Diego may appear narrower, sectors like biotech and defense are booming, offering new opportunities for professionals. Understanding these nuances will help ease the transition and allow you to fully embrace your new surroundings.
New York City vs. San Diego Food Guide
When considering a move, it's essential to embrace the culinary landscape as food is an important part of local culture and what it's like to live in an area. To help you understand the gastronomic differences, we've prepared a comparison of the local cuisine between New York City & San Diego so you can be better informed about the food scene in your new home.
| New York City | San Diego | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Bagel | Fish Taco |
| Most popular meat dish | Pastrami Sandwich | Carne Asada |
| Most popular street food item | Pizza Slice | California Burrito |
| Most popular vegan food | Seitan Sandwich | Jackfruit Taco |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
In New York City, bagels reign supreme as the most iconic local food item, often enjoyed with a schmear of cream cheese. Neighborhoods like the Lower East Side and Brooklyn are famous for their bagel shops, such as Katz's Delicatessen, known globally for its pastrami sandwiches. In contrast, moving to San Diego introduces you to the fish taco, epitomizing the local love for fresh, coastal cuisine. Areas like Ocean Beach, home to Hodad's, showcase the city's laid-back lifestyle and its fusion of Mexican culinary traditions with California's fresh produce. While NYC's food scene is characterized by its endless variety and 24-hour availability, San Diego's culinary landscape is defined by its innovation in health-conscious and Mexican-inspired dishes.
New York City vs. San Diego Restaurant Comparison
Moving to a new city isn't just about finding a place to live; it's also about discovering where you'll love to eat. This comparison between top restaurants in New York City and their equivalents in San Diego will help you find your next favorite spot, making a new city feel like home. By using widely-loved eateries in your current hometown as a guide, we aim to ease your transition and spark excitement for the culinary adventures awaiting you in San Diego.
| New York City | San Diego | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Le Bernardin | Fishery | Renowned for high-quality, sustainable seafood dishes. |
| Katz's Delicatessen | Carnitas' Snack Shack | Offers a casual setting with iconic, hearty American fare. |
| Dominique Ansel Bakery | Extraordinary Desserts | Famous for innovative and visually stunning treats. |
| Per Se | Addison | Delivers an exceptional fine dining experience similar to Per Se. |
| Di Fara Pizza | Buona Forchetta | Known for authentic, wood-fired Neapolitan pizzas. |
| Joe's Shanghai | Dumpling Inn | Offers a broad range of Chinese cuisine with standout dumplings. |
| Shake Shack | Hodad's | Provides a laid-back atmosphere serving up some of the best burgers. |
| Carbone | Bencotto Italian Kitchen | A place for pasta lovers seeking high-quality Italian dishes. |
| Momofuku Noodle Bar | UnderBelly | Brings innovative ramen dishes to San Diego, inspired by Tokyo's ramen culture. |
| Levain Bakery | The Cravory | Home to unique and indulgent cookie creations, much like Levain's. |
For those who savor the rich, indulgent flavors of Le Bernardin in NYC, The Fishery in San Diego will not disappoint with its focus on fresh, sustainable seafood. If it's the hearty classics from Katz's Delicatessen you'll miss, then look no further than Carnitas' Snack Shack in San Diego, where American comfort food is reimagined with local ingredients and bold flavors. And for dessert lovers enchanted by Dominique Ansel Bakery, Extraordinary Desserts offers an array of imaginative sweet treats that are sure to satisfy even the most sophisticated of palates. Each San Diego restaurant has been carefully selected to bridge the gap between what you know and love in New York City and what you can discover and adore in your new hometown, ensuring that the spirit of your culinary favorites lives on.
Ready to start your move?
New York City vs. San Diego Real Estate & Living Facts
When considering moving from one city to another, comparing real estate aspects between New York City and San Diego becomes crucial. Understanding how housing costs, architecture, and the overall lifestyle match up will help in making an informed decision on your next big move.
| Comparison | New York City | San Diego |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Art Deco, Modern | Spanish Revival, Modern |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Close to subway, Views | Ocean view, Proximity to beaches |
In comparing real estate between New York City and San Diego, the contrast in lifestyle and housing options becomes clear. New York offers unparalleled walkability and an urban lifestyle that is hard to beat, with many listings emphasizing proximity to the subway and stunning city views. On the other hand, San Diego's real estate prides itself on its ties to the natural elements, with many homes boasting ocean views or being just a stone's throw away from beautiful beaches. Although the median home prices and rent are somewhat comparable, these cities cater to distinct tastes—urban sophistication in New York versus a laid-back, scenic atmosphere in San Diego. This delineation makes it essential for you to consider what elements of city living are most important to you.
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.
New York City vs. San Diego Weather Considerations
Relocating from one city to another requires an understanding of many factors, with climate being notably significant. Comparing the weather between New York City and San Diego illuminates substantial differences that could influence your daily life and preferences. Let’s explore how the weather varies, providing a clearer picture of what to expect in your new home.
New York City, NY
San Diego, CA
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
New York City, NY
San Diego, CA
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
New York City, NY
San Diego, CA
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
New York City, NY
San Diego, CA
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | New York City | San Diego |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Moderate | Good |
| Natural Disasters | Hurricanes, Blizzards | Earthquakes, Wildfires |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
Moving from New York City to San Diego, you'll leave behind the brisk winters and humid summers for a milder, more consistent climate. San Diego boasts more days of sunshine and significantly less rainfall, offering an outdoor lifestyle year-round. While humidity is slightly higher in San Diego, the moderate temperatures make it more comfortable. Also, transitioning from the occasional blizzards and hurricanes to the risk of earthquakes and wildfires requires a shift in emergency preparedness. Understanding these differences will help smooth your transition and set realistic expectations for your new environment.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from New York City to San Diego
When deciding to move, understanding the financial implications is crucial. This comparison focuses on how the cost of living, taxes, and economic conditions in New York City stack up against those in San Diego, providing insights into what you can expect in terms of finances.
| Comparison | New York City | San Diego |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $67,997 | $93,042 |
| Cost of Living Index | 185.8 | 132.3 |
| State Income Tax | 4% to 8.82% | 1% to 13.3% |
| Avg. Property Tax | 0.88% | 0.76% |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 8.875% | 7.75% |
| Top 3 Industries | Financial Services, Health Care, Retail | Defense/Military, Tourism, International Trade |
| Affluence | Highly affluent | Moderately affluent |
| Poverty | Somewhat high | Moderate |
| Homelessness | Significant concern | Major concern |
While both New York City and San Diego have their unique financial landscapes, understanding these differences can help you plan better for your move. For instance, although San Diego's average household income appears higher, the cost of living in New York City is significantly greater, partly due to higher housing costs. New York's state income tax varies widely, potentially affecting higher earners more substantially than in San Diego. However, everyday expenses like sales tax are slightly lower in San Diego, easing some financial pressures. Considering these factors, the economic transition from New York City to San Diego requires careful financial planning, especially regarding housing and taxation.
New York City vs. San Diego Political & Religious Comparison
When planning your move from New York City to San Diego, it's insightful to consider how the politics between New York City & San Diego and the religious sentiments of their residents differ. This quick comparison aims to give you an at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the populations in these two vibrant cities.
| New York City | San Diego | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Liberal/Democratic | Lean Liberal/Democratic |
| Local Politics | Democratic governor and mayor | Democratic mayor |
| Religion | Diverse: Christianity, Judaism, Islam, etc. | Diverse with a significant Christian population |
While both New York City and San Diego lean liberal in their political makeup, with democratically aligned leaders guiding both cities, you'll note differences in the local political landscape and community priorities. New York City is known for its highly diverse religious composition, including communities of Christians, Jews, Muslims, and more, reflecting its global demographic. In contrast, San Diego presents a considerable Christian majority, yet still cherishes religious diversity among its residents. This insight into the social and political climates can help you set expectations and ease your transition.
New York City vs. San Diego Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Understanding the daily commute and traffic conditions is crucial when moving, especially when comparing transportation options between New York City & San Diego . This guide aims to provide a clear comparison to help you adapt to your new environment seamlessly.
| Comparison | New York City | San Diego |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 41 | 25 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | Yes | More challenging |
In New York City, the reliance on public transportation is high due to its efficiency and extensive network, spanning subways, buses, and trains, making it relatively easy to navigate the city without a car. On the other hand, San Diego, with its lower traffic congestion and shorter average commute times, still prefers car usage due to less available public transit options. This marks a significant adjustment for those moving from the highly walkable and transit-friendly environment of New York City to the more car-dependent lifestyle in San Diego, where having a vehicle becomes almost a necessity for convenience.
Additional Resources
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