Best Memphis to San Diego Movers + Moving Guide

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If you're moving from Memphis to San Diego and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 1,812 mile move from Tennessee to California go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 26 Memphis 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 $2,000 - $8,000 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Memphis 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.

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Best Memphis to San Diego Moving Companies

RankCompany NameRating QuestionAffordability IndexLicenseContact
1The Rock Movers9.499.53Authorized For HHGContact
2Coast 2 Coast Moving, Inc.9.469.62Authorized For HHGContact
3Garrett's Hauling8.798.8Authorized For Property, HHGContact
4Polk's Reliable Delivery Services, LLC8.568.38Authorized For PropertyContact
5My Town Movers8.378.94Authorized For Property, HHGContact
Phone (800) 787-5428

Cost to Move from Memphis to San Diego

Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 1,812 miles from Memphis, TN to San Diego, CA will cost on average $3,322 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Memphis to San Diego move is roughly $8,011. 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 SizeMoving CostVolume of Packed Items (ft³)$/ft³
Studio$2,230300 ft³7.43
1 Bedroom$3,322450 ft³7.38
2 Bedrooms$5,499750 ft³7.33
3 Bedrooms$8,0111100 ft³7.28
4 Bedrooms$11,5721600 ft³7.23
5+ Bedrooms$12,9291800 ft³7.18
*Please note: These Tennessee to California moving prices are rough approximations based upon nationwide data as well as local and statewide data from Tennessee & California. The volume listed here represents the estimated cubic footage of your household items when packed and loaded into a moving truck. To determine the exact costs associated with your move, get a quote from a licensed TN to CA mover.
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from San Diego to Memphis guide.

Compare the 5 Best Memphis to San Diego Movers

These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)

The Rock Movers Logo

The Rock Movers

Exceptional9.49/10
based on 2,305+ data points

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

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/10/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3653432 / 1541470

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans4
Registered Drivers7
Total Annual Miles Moved40,000 (2023)
View Full Review
1
Coast 2 Coast Moving, Inc. Logo

Coast 2 Coast Moving, Inc.

Exceptional9.46/10
based on 477+ data points

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

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/10/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3177184 / 1157114

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans3
Registered Drivers7
Total Annual Miles Moved200,000 (2024)
View Full Review
2
Garrett's Hauling Logo

Garrett's Hauling

Superb8.79/10
based on 324+ data points

Gallaway, TN, 38036

About Garrett's Hauling

Garrett's Hauling, a recently established moving company in 2021, is based in Cordova, Tennessee, and offers moving services in Cordova, Germantown,...

Services

  • Local Moving
  • Long Distance Moving
  • Commercial Moving

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/11/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3819914 / 1381892

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans2
Registered Drivers2
Total Annual Miles Moved40,000 (2023)
View Full Review
3
Polk's Reliable Delivery Services, LLC Logo

Polk's Reliable Delivery Services, LLC

Fabulous8.56/10
based on 130+ data points

3456 Christy Ln

Bartlett, TN, 38135

About Polk's Reliable Delivery Services, LLC

Polk's Reliable Delivery Services, LLC is a family-owned moving company based in Bartlett, TN, with over 14 years of experience in...

Services

  • Cheap moving services
  • Local moving services
  • Long-distance moving services

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/10/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3797931 / 1365852

Authorized For Property

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans1
Registered Drivers1
Total Annual Miles Moved10,000 (2021)
View Full Review
4
My Town Movers Logo

My Town Movers

Very Good8.37/10
based on 1,436+ data points

W 449 US-72 # 129

Collierville, TN, 38017

About My Town Movers

For over a decade, locally owned and operated moving company My Town Movers has been helping people in the Memphis area...

Services

  • Local Moving Services
  • Long Distance Moving
  • Apartment Moving

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/9/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2434252 / 839413

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans8
Registered Drivers8
Total Annual Miles Moved88,000 (2022)
View Full Review
5
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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.

Memphis vs. San Diego Neighborhood Comparison

Embarking on a big move can be daunting, especially when the destination is unfamiliar territory. To ease this transition, we've crafted a comparison of the local neighborhoods between Memphis, TN & San Diego, CA , designed to align your current community favorites with their new counterparts. This guide is here to help you find your next neighborhood gem by drawing parallels from what you already know and love.

MemphisSan DiegoHow They're Similar
Midtown MemphisNorth ParkVibrant arts and culture scene
East MemphisLa JollaUpscale living with shopping districts
Cooper-YoungSouth ParkHistoric homes with a hip vibe
Overton SquareGaslamp QuarterRich history and nightlife
GermantownCarmel ValleyQuiet, family-friendly areas
ColliervillePowaySuburban living with parks and schools
Downtown MemphisDowntown San DiegoBustling urban center with waterfront views
BartlettScripps RanchFamily-centric with natural parks
CordovaMira MesaCommunity-focused with diverse dining
Harbor TownCoronadoLuxurious with scenic waterfront

In exploring these neighborhoods, if you're drawn to the artistic and bohemian flair of Midtown Memphis with its abundance of arts, nightlife, and culinary delights, North Park in San Diego awaits with a similar vibe, hosting a vibrant arts scene and an array of craft breweries and local eateries, like Urban Hawks. Admirers of East Memphis's upscale neighborhoods and shopping may find La Jolla's awe-inspiring ocean views, together with high-end boutiques and dining options like George's at the Cove, an appealing parallel. For those appreciating the historic charm and close-knit community of Cooper-Young, South Park offers a cozy atmosphere with celebrated events and local businesses nestled among classic Californian craftsman homes. Each San Diego neighborhood holds its unique charm mirroring that of Memphis, ensuring you find a new place to call home without leaving behind what you cherished.

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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 Memphis to San Diego

Moving homes can be a monumental decision, packed with both excitement and uncertainty. This comparison aims to shed light on what to expect when transitioning from Memphis, TN to San Diego, CA—providing a balanced view of the benefits and drawbacks of relocating between these two dynamic cities. By contrasting the pros and cons, we hope to offer an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of this relocation.

CONs
PROs
Memphis, TN iconMemphis, TN
  • Higher crime rates
  • Humid summers
  • Lower job market
  • Less diverse cuisine
  • Fewer cultural venues
San Diego, CA iconSan Diego, CA
  • Lower crime rates
  • Mild climate
  • Stronger job market
  • Varied cuisine
  • More cultural venues
San Diego, CA iconSan Diego, CA
  • Higher cost of living
  • More urban feeling
  • Heavier traffic
  • Less blues focus
  • Smaller home spaces
Memphis, TN iconMemphis, TN
  • Lower cost of living
  • Close-knit communities
  • Easy city navigation
  • Richer blues music scene
  • Larger home lots

Relocating from Memphis, TN to San Diego, CA, opens up a world of opportunities and lifestyle changes. In San Diego, you're likely to enjoy a vibrant cultural tapestry, epitomized by places like the Balboa Park, with its lush landscapes and numerous museums, or the historic Liberty Station for a taste of local arts, culture, and cuisine. While Memphis boasts a storied blues music scene at venues like the famous Beale Street, San Diego counters with an eclectic music scene at spots like the Belly Up Tavern in Solana Beach. The transition to San Diego's higher cost of living may be eased by exploring neighborhoods like Hillcrest or North Park, known for their vibrant community life, eclectic eateries like Crazee Burger, and welcoming atmosphere. Though each city boasts its charms and challenges, San Diego's appeal lies in its diverse offerings and the promise of a mild climate, which encourage an outdoor and active lifestyle year-round.

Memphis vs. San Diego Food Guide

Understanding the culinary landscape is key to immersing yourself in a new city. This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Memphis & San Diego to help you get a taste of what life will be like in your new home.

MemphisSan Diego
Most iconic local food itemBarbecue ribsFish tacos
Most popular meat dishPulled porkCarne asada
Most popular street food itemBarbecue nachosCalifornia burrito
Most popular vegan foodBBQ tofuAvocado toast
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
  • The Rendezvous
  • Central BBQ
  • Gus's World Famous Fried Chicken
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
Abundance of Food Trucks🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
Foodie Scene🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

Memphis is renowned for its deep-rooted barbecue culture, featuring dishes like barbecue ribs and pulled pork, best enjoyed at legendary spots such as The Rendezvous and Central BBQ. On the other hand, San Diego showcases its coastal influence with a penchant for fresh, Mexican-inspired dishes like fish tacos and carne asada, with dining experiences highlighted at establishments like George's at the Cove and Hodad's. San Diego also boasts a higher fitness and health consciousness, reflected in its abundance of vegan options like avocado toast, and a vibrant food truck and foodie scene, indicating a broad and eclectic taste palette catered towards a variety of dietary preferences.

Memphis vs. San Diego Restaurant Comparison

Relocating can be a daunting endeavor, especially when it means leaving behind the beloved flavors of one's current city. However, fear not! This restaurant comparison between Memphis and San Diego is designed to ease the transition by helping you find new favorite spots that resonate with the ones you're leaving behind in Memphis. From high-end dining experiences to casual eats, this guide will ensure your taste buds feel right at home in San Diego.

MemphisSan DiegoWhat You'll Love
Gus's World Famous Fried ChickenThe Crack ShackSouthern-style fried chicken with a unique West Coast twist
Flight Restaurant & Wine BarJuniper & IvyHigh-end dining with creative dishes and wine pairings
Hog & HominyBuona ForchettaAuthentic Italian with a cozy, family-friendly atmosphere
Central BBQCoop's West Texas BBQOffers genuine smoked meats that rival the best in Memphis
Aldo's Pizza PiesBasic Bar & PizzaKnown for its excellent thin-crust pizzas and lively atmosphere
The Beauty Shop RestaurantCafe 21Farm-to-table dining experience with a quirky, retro vibe
Andrew Michael Italian KitchenBencotto Italian KitchenOffers sophisticated Italian dishes in a chic setting
McCormick & Schmick'sEddie V's Prime SeafoodHigh-quality seafood and steaks with an elegant ambiance
RendezvousPhil's BBQFamed for its barbecue ribs that give a nod to Rendezvous’ iconic status
Dyer's BurgersHodad'sIconic burger joint with a laid-back vibe, known for its massive burgers

When cravings for Memphis's iconic flavors hit in your new San Diego locale, you'll find solace in spots like The Crack Shack, where the fusion of Southern fried chicken with inventive West Coast flavors offers a taste reminiscent of Gus's but with a unique twist. For those special nights out, Juniper & Ivy stands as San Diego's answer to Flight Restaurant & Wine Bar, offering an innovative menu that's sure to impress with its creativity and finesse. Meanwhile, Coop's West Texas BBQ will make BBQ enthusiasts feel right at home, echoing Central BBQ’s smokey richness with its own Texan flair. With these comparisons, your transition from Memphis to San Diego promises to be a flavorful journey, making the new city feel like home one meal at a time.

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Ready to start your move?

Memphis vs. San Diego Real Estate & Living Facts

Real estate is critical when planning a move. Understanding how housing aspects in Memphis and San Diego compare can illuminate the key differences between these two vibrant cities, guiding your decision-making process.

ComparisonMemphisSan Diego
Typical Architecture StyleColonial, RanchSpanish, Modern
Walkability 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listingSpacious yards, quiet streetsProximity to beaches, modern amenities

The contrast in housing between Memphis and San Diego is stark, with San Diego's median home price significantly higher, reflecting its coastal market demand and desirability. While Memphis offers spacious yards and an affinity for colonial and ranch architecture, San Diego prizes its proximity to the Pacific and modern, Spanish-inspired homes. The elevated walkability and urban lifestyle score in San Diego cater to those seeking a dynamic coastal city experience, albeit at a higher cost of living. Choosing between the two depends on your preference for an affordable, quieter setting or a bustling, scenic coastal city.

Pet-friendly neighborhoods background image

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.

Memphis vs. San Diego Weather Considerations

When planning a move, understanding the climatic differences between your current location and your destination is crucial. This comparison is aimed to prepare you for the weather changes you’ll face when relocating from Memphis, TN to San Diego, CA. Knowing what to expect will help you adjust more smoothly to your new environment.

Summer icon
90°F / 71°F

Memphis, TN

77°F / 64°F

San Diego, CA

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
50°F / 32°F

Memphis, TN

66°F / 50°F

San Diego, CA

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
53 inches

Memphis, TN

12 inches

San Diego, CA

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
3 inches

Memphis, TN

0 inches

San Diego, CA

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

ComparisonMemphisSan Diego
Air QualityModerateGood
Natural DisastersTornados, StormsEarthquakes, Wildfires
Days of Sunshine per Year☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. UV Index🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Avg. Annual Humidity💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦

Moving from Memphis to San Diego will bring a notable difference in weather, most significantly in the milder summers, fewer days of humidity, and more days of sunshine that San Diego offers. While Memphis experiences a moderate climate with significant humidity and occasional snow, San Diego enjoys a consistently mild climate with much lower annual rainfall and virtually no snow. This shift means not only a change in daily attire but also a variation in the types of natural disasters one might prepare for, transitioning from concerns over tornados in Memphis to earthquakes and wildfires in California. Furthermore, the improved air quality in San Diego can contribute positively to your daily health and well-being.

Ready to start your move?

Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Memphis to San Diego

If you're considering a move, understanding the financial landscape of your new city can be crucial. Comparing Memphis, TN to San Diego, CA in terms of cost of living , income , and taxes will help you gauge how your finances might change. These insights allow you to better prepare for the transition between these two distinct economic climates.

ComparisonMemphisSan Diego
Avg. Household Income$44,317$93,042
Cost of Living Index88.2132.3
State Income Tax09.3
Avg. Property Tax1.070.76
Avg. Sales Tax9.257.75
Top 3 IndustriesTransportation, Health Care, EducationDefense, Manufacturing, Tourism
AffluenceLower-MiddleUpper-Middle
PovertyHigherLower
HomelessnessSignificantSubstantial

Although moving from Memphis to San Diego presents a significant leap in terms of the cost of living, this is somewhat offset by higher average incomes in San Diego. The absence of state income tax in Tennessee contrasts sharply with California's considerable tax rate, which could impact your take-home pay. Property taxes are higher in Memphis, but the overall cost of housing in San Diego can dramatically affect budgeting due to its high real estate market. This comparison highlights the need to carefully consider employment opportunities and living arrangements within these economic contexts to maintain or enhance your lifestyle.

Memphis vs. San Diego Political & Religious Comparison

When planning your move from Memphis, TN, to San Diego, CA, understanding the local culture of your new home is crucial. This quick comparison provides a snapshot of the political and religious makeup of residents between Memphis & San Diego , giving you insight into the community you'll be joining.

MemphisSan Diego
Political Make-upLean DemocraticLean Democratic
Local PoliticsFocus on social equity and educationEmphasis on environmental and immigration policies
ReligionHighly religious, with a strong Christian presenceModerately religious, diverse religious communities

In essence, while both Memphis and San Diego lean Democratic in political orientation, the focal points of their local politics differ significantly. Memphis tends to prioritize social equity and educational reforms, reflecting the city's rich civil rights history. In contrast, San Diego's political scene often centers around environmental conservation and progressive immigration policies, influenced by its coastal location and proximity to the Mexican border. Religion plays a more prominent role in Memphis, where Christian values deeply permeate the community. San Diego, however, presents a more religiously diverse environment, with various faiths coexisting harmoniously. Understanding these nuances will help you acclimate to your new surroundings more efficiently.

Memphis vs. San Diego Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

Moving from Memphis, TN, to San Diego, CA, means adjusting to new daily routines, including your commute. This comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Memphis & San Diego will help you understand what to expect.

ComparisonMemphisSan Diego
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)2526
Traffic Congestion 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦
Availability of Public Transit 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇
Can you get by without car?NoYes, with some planning

In Memphis, your average commute time might feel manageable, but the city's less robust public transportation system means having a car is almost a necessity for getting around efficiently. In contrast, San Diego presents a slightly longer commute time on average, reflecting its denser traffic. However, its more developed public transit system, including buses and trolleys, offers viable alternatives to personal vehicle use, especially with some prior planning. This makes San Diego more accommodating if you're looking to reduce your reliance on a car.

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