Best Pittsburgh to San Diego Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from Pittsburgh to San Diego and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 2,573 mile move from Pennsylvania to California go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 33 Pittsburgh 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 Pittsburgh Moving), 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 Pittsburgh 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 Pittsburgh to San Diego Moving Companies
| Rank | Company Name | Rating  | Affordability Index | License | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Pittsburgh Moving | 9.62 | 9.51 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 2 | The Rock Movers | 9.49 | 9.53 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 3 | Coast 2 Coast Moving, Inc. | 9.46 | 9.62 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 4 | Meta Movers | 9.12 | 9.43 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 5 | Two Men and a Truck | 8.80 | 8.2 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
(800) 787-5428Cost to Move from Pittsburgh to San Diego
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 2,573 miles from Pittsburgh, PA to San Diego, CA will cost on average $3,969 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Pittsburgh to San Diego move is roughly $9,593. 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 | $2,661 | 300 ft³ | 8.87 |
| 1 Bedroom | $3,969 | 450 ft³ | 8.82 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $6,578 | 750 ft³ | 8.77 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $9,593 | 1100 ft³ | 8.72 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $13,873 | 1600 ft³ | 8.67 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $15,517 | 1800 ft³ | 8.62 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from San Diego to Pittsburgh guide.
Compare the 5 Best Pittsburgh to San Diego Movers
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
Pittsburgh Moving
5746 Pierce St
Pittsburgh, PA, 15232
About Pittsburgh Moving
Located in the City of Bridges, Pittsburgh Moving is a full-service moving company dedicated to making your local and intrastate relocations...
Services
- Local move in Pittsburgh
- Long distance moving in or out of Pittsburgh
- Residential move
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3901080 / 1437162 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 3 |
| Registered Drivers | 6 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 100,000 (2023) |
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) |
Meta Movers
13 Holt St
Pittsburgh, PA, 15203
About Meta Movers
Meta Movers is a licensed and insured moving company based in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, with over a decade of experience in the...
Services
- Full-service local Pittsburgh moves
- Long distance residential and commercial moves
- Loading or unloading your truck or pod
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3295834 / 1044452 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 1 |
| Registered Drivers | 3 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 10,000 (2022) |
Two Men and a Truck
3555 Valley Dr
Pittsburgh, PA, 15234
About Two Men and a Truck
With a premium brand of service rooted in hard work, trust, and high customer satisfaction, Two Men And A Truck is...
Services
- Local Moving
- Junk Removal
- Storage
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 1321899 / 509618 Authorized For Property, HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 14 |
| Registered Drivers | 15 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 260,000 (2022) |
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.
Pittsburgh vs. San Diego Neighborhood Comparison
Moving from one city to another can be daunting, especially when you're not familiar with your new home. To ease this transition, we've crafted a comparison of the local neighborhoods between Pittsburgh, PA & San Diego, CA . This guide will help you find similarities in the vibe, amenities, and lifestyle of neighborhoods from the Steel City to the Birthplace of California, making your move a bit more like coming home.
| Pittsburgh | San Diego | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Shadyside | Hillcrest | Diverse, vibrant community feel |
| Squirrel Hill | North Park | Mix of residential & cultural spaces |
| Lawrenceville | Little Italy | Trendy, with a strong sense of community |
| East Liberty | Normal Heights | Eclectic, with a resurgence in popularity |
| Oakland | La Jolla | Educational institutions and cultural attractions |
| Downtown (Golden Triangle) | Downtown San Diego | Bustling business and nightlife |
| Bloomfield | North Park | Walkable, with a strong sense of local culture |
| Strip District | Liberty Station | Rich in history and vibrant market scene |
| South Side | Ocean Beach | Lively nightlife and community events |
| Highland Park | Balboa Park | Gorgeous natural spaces and community focal point |
Exploring these neighborhoods in more depth, you'll find that Shadyside's boutique-lined Walnut Street closely mirrors the bustling scene of University Avenue in Hillcrest, where diversity and inclusivity shine. Meanwhile, the cozy, yet modern ambiance of Lawrenceville finds its match in Little Italy's strong sense of community and flair for the trendy. For those who appreciate the unique blend of education and culture, Oakland’s prestigious universities and museums echo through La Jolla's distinguished educational institutions and cultural treasures, like the world-renowned UC San Diego and the Birch Aquarium. And if you're a fan of engaging city life paired with access to green spaces, East Liberty's recent development parallels Normal Heights’ eclectic vibe and community spirit, perfect for those seeking an urban renewal feel amidst historic charm.
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 Pittsburgh to San Diego
Moving from Pittsburgh, PA to San Diego, CA is a journey filled with changes, both challenging and rewarding. This comparison aims to shine an honest light on the good and the bad attributes of this relocation, helping you weigh the differences. Whether it's the weather, cost of living, or lifestyle, let's explore how these cities compare in the charts below.
Pittsburgh, PA- Harsh winters
- Less sunshine
- Smaller job market
- Higher taxes
San Diego, CA- Mild climate
- Abundant sunshine
- Larger job market
- Lower taxes in some areas
San Diego, CA- Higher housing costs
- Less historic sites
- Spread out
- More transient
Pittsburgh, PA- Affordable housing
- Rich history
- Compact city
- Close-knit communities
Moving from Pittsburgh to San Diego means exchanging harsh winters for a climate that boasts an average of 266 sunny days annually. This sunny weather supports an active outdoor lifestyle, ideal for exploring San Diego's renowned beaches such as La Jolla Shores and Coronado Beach. The larger job market in San Diego, particularly in biotech and defense sectors, contrasts with Pittsburgh's smaller, though burgeoning, tech scene. While Pittsburgh offers the charm of historic neighborhoods like Lawrenceville, San Diego attracts with vibrant areas such as Gaslamp Quarter, known for its nightlife and dining, including renown spots like Gaslamp Quarter and Juniper & Ivy. However, San Diego's appeal comes with a higher cost of living, particularly in terms of housing. Despite this, neighborhoods like North Park offer a blend of urban living with a strong sense of community, comparable to Pittsburgh's Shadyside. This transition, though challenging financially, promises year-round sunshine and a diverse, dynamic lifestyle.
Pittsburgh vs. San Diego Food Guide
Comparing the local cuisine between Pittsburgh and San Diego is essential for understanding the cultural landscape of your new home. Food isn't just sustenance; it's a reflection of the local culture, history, and lifestyle. This guide will help you navigate the culinary scene of both cities, ensuring you know what tasty treats await you in your new location.
| Pittsburgh | San Diego | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Pierogies | Fish Tacos |
| Most popular meat dish | Primanti Bros. Sandwich | Carne Asada |
| Most popular street food item | Haluski | California Burrito |
| Most popular vegan food | Seitan Sandwich | Açai Bowl |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
In Pittsburgh, you'll discover a city deeply proud of its Eastern European roots, reflected in its love for pierogies and haluski available in the Strip District, signaling a food scene as diverse as its immigrant history. Meanwhile, San Diego's culinary scene is heavily influenced by its proximity to Mexico, offering some of the best fish tacos and carne asada north of the border, particularly in neighborhoods like the Gaslamp Quarter. San Diego also scores higher in terms of health consciousness, with plentiful options for health-oriented and vegan dining, such as the popular açai bowls found throughout the city. Whether you're exploring the historic eateries of Pittsburgh or the ocean-side dining options in San Diego, you're set for a diverse culinary adventure.
Pittsburgh vs. San Diego Restaurant Comparison
Relocating involves not just a change of address but a profound lifestyle adjustment. An integral aspect of feeling at home in a new city is discovering your go-to spots for dining. With this comparative guide, we aim to bridge the gap between Pittsburgh and San Diego's culinary worlds , by matching your favorite Pittsburgh eateries with their San Diego counterparts. This restaurant comparison is your stepping stone to finding your next favorite meal in sunny San Diego.
| Pittsburgh | San Diego | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Primanti Bros. | Hodad's | Iconic, laid-back vibe with unique burger offerings |
| Altius | Mister A's | Both offer stunning views with upscale dining |
| Pamela's Diner | Hash House A Go Go | Known for hearty, comfort breakfast and brunch |
| DiAnoia's Eatery | Bencotto Italian Kitchen | Authentic, homemade Italian cuisine |
| Pusadee's Garden | Supannee House of Thai | Both known for their garden ambiance and authentic Thai food |
| Meat & Potatoes | Cowboy Star Restaurant and Butcher Shop | Focus on high-quality meats and artisanal dishes |
| Gaucho Parrilla Argentina | Puerto La Boca | Similar focus on Argentinian cuisine and steak dishes |
| Union Grill | Phil's BBQ | Both offer a casual dining experience with a focus on American classics |
| Square Cafe | Great Maple | Modern American eatery with a vibrant, quirky ambiance |
| The Vandal | Juniper & Ivy | Both offer innovative, chef-driven menus with a focus on local, seasonal ingredients |
When it comes to finding that perfect dining spot that hits close to home, it's all about the nuances that make each meal memorable. Hodad's in San Diego captures the heart and soul of Pittsburgh's Primanti Bros with its unique and flavorful burgers, wrapped in an unmistakably laid-back vibe perfect for any day of the week. On the finer dining side, Mister A's mirrors the breathtaking views and sophisticated ambiance you loved at Altius, promising an upscale dining experience that's both familiar and excitingly new. For those mornings when nothing but a hearty, comforting breakfast will do, Hash House A Go Go serves up dishes with a flair and generosity that Pamela's Diner patrons would surely appreciate. It's about more than just finding a place to eat—it's about rediscovering the flavors and feelings of home in a new setting, making your transition to San Diego not just smoother, but truly delightful.
Ready to start your move?
Pittsburgh vs. San Diego Real Estate & Living Facts
When contemplating a move, analyzing the real estate landscape is crucial. Comparing the housing costs, amenities, and lifestyles of Pittsburgh and San Diego is essential for making an informed decision. This comparison sheds light on the significant differences and unique qualities each city offers.
| Comparison | Pittsburgh | San Diego |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Victorian & Colonial | Spanish & Modern |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Spacious layouts, historic details | Views, outdoor living spaces |
When delving deeper into the housing aspects of Pittsburgh and San Diego, several key differences stand out. The median home price in San Diego is significantly higher than in Pittsburgh, reflecting California's overall high cost of living. Yet, San Diego compensates with its Spanish and Modern architectural styles, captivating ocean views, and enhanced outdoor living spaces that cater to its sunny climate. Meanwhile, Pittsburgh offers its own appeal with more affordable housing, characterized by spacious layouts and historic details from Victorian and Colonial eras. The higher bikeability and walkability scores in San Diego also suggest a more active lifestyle, underlined by the city's commitment to outdoor activities and sustainability.
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.
Pittsburgh vs. San Diego Weather Considerations
Moving from one location to another introduces a host of changes, not least of which is the weather. Understanding how the climate shifts from Pittsburgh to San Diego is essential for preparing yourself for a new environment. This comparison aims to highlight the differences and similarities in weather patterns you'll experience, ensuring you're not caught off guard as you transition.
Pittsburgh, PA
San Diego, CA
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Pittsburgh, PA
San Diego, CA
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Pittsburgh, PA
San Diego, CA
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Pittsburgh, PA
San Diego, CA
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Pittsburgh | San Diego |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Moderate | Good |
| Natural Disasters | Snowstorms, Floods | Earthquakes, Wildfires |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
As you transition from Pittsburgh to San Diego, you'll notice significant changes in weather patterns. San Diego offers more sunshine days annually and milder winters, which means you can say goodbye to heavy snowfalls. Additionally, while Pittsburgh faces challenges like snowstorms, San Diego’s natural disaster risks include earthquakes and wildfires. Another change to anticipate is in air quality, with San Diego generally boasting cleaner air, making it easier for those with respiratory issues. Remembering these differences will help you adapt more smoothly to your new environment.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Pittsburgh to San Diego
When moving from one location to another, it's essential to grasp the financial implications of such a move. This comparison will provide a clear picture of how your expenses and economic lifestyle might change, emphasizing the cost of living, income, and taxation from Pittsburgh to San Diego . Understanding these differences will equip you with the knowledge to manage your finances effectively in your new home.
| Comparison | Pittsburgh | San Diego |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $57,821 | $93,042 |
| Cost of Living Index | 91.5 | 132.3 |
| State Income Tax | 3.07 | 13.3 |
| Avg. Property Tax | 2.07 | 0.76 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 7 | 7.75 |
| Top 3 Industries | Healthcare, Education, Manufacturing | Defense/Military, Tourism, International Trade |
| Affluence | Moderate | High |
| Poverty | Noticeable | Considerable |
| Homelessness | Significant | Severe |
Moving from Pittsburgh to San Diego, the stark contrast in the cost of living index stands out immediately; the index in San Diego is nearly double that of Pittsburgh, which could impact your budget significantly. Despite the higher average household income in San Diego, the city's elevated living costs and higher state income tax rate might offset this advantage. Furthermore, while San Diego boasts a thriving economy with key industries like defense, tourism, and international trade, it also faces considerable challenges related to homelessness, adding a complex layer to its affluence. Taking into account these factors will be crucial in preparing for a financially sound transition.
Pittsburgh vs. San Diego Political & Religious Comparison
In this section, we offer a quick snapshot to illustrate the comparison of the politics between Pittsburgh & San Diego , focusing on political leanings, local governance, and religious landscapes. This comparison aims to provide a broad understanding of the community vibe you're moving from and into.
| Pittsburgh | San Diego | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Leans Democratic | Leans Democratic |
| Local Politics | Strong union influences | Focus on military and defense sectors |
| Religion | Significant Catholic population | Diverse religious communities, including a large Catholic population |
While both Pittsburgh and San Diego lean Democratic politically, the influence on local politics takes different forms. Pittsburgh's rich history with labor unions significantly shapes its local governance, emphasizing workers' rights and benefits. In contrast, San Diego's local politics are significantly impacted by its status as a military hub, focusing on defense and veterans' affairs. Religion plays a vital role in both cities, with Catholicism being prominent. However, San Diego showcases more diversity in its religious communities, reflecting its broader multicultural makeup. This transition from Pittsburgh to San Diego would introduce you to subtle shifts in political atmospheres and a mosaic of religious beliefs.
Pittsburgh vs. San Diego Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Moving from Pittsburgh, PA to San Diego, CA requires an understanding of the differences in daily commute and traffic. This comparison between Pittsburgh & San Diego helps provide insights into what you might expect when it comes to driving and transiting in these cities.
| Comparison | Pittsburgh | San Diego |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 26 | 24 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | Possible but challenging | Easier but still challenging |
In both Pittsburgh and San Diego, whether or not you can get by without a car largely depends on your lifestyle and where you live in the city. Pittsburgh, with its average commute time of 26 minutes and a traffic congestion rating of 6 out of 10, has a public transit system that is functional but may not serve all areas equally. On the other hand, San Diego has a slightly lower average commute time of 24 minutes and a higher traffic congestion score. However, its public transit system is slightly more accessible, offering a more comfortable experience for daily commuters. Both cities encourage the use of bikes and have initiatives aimed at improving public transit accessibility, but when moving to either city, it's advisable to consider the proximity of your home to your workplace or school.
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