Best Houston to San Diego Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from Houston to San Diego and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 1,495 mile move from Texas to California go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 35 Houston 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 - $7,500 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Houston 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 Houston 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 | Pinpoint Movers | 8.76 | 9.23 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 4 | Right Rate Movers of Houston | 8.67 | 8.59 | Active | Contact |
| 5 | Go Movers | 8.50 | 9.1 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
(800) 787-5428Cost to Move from Houston to San Diego
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 1,495 miles from Houston, TX to San Diego, CA will cost on average $3,053 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Houston to San Diego move is roughly $7,352. 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 | $2,050 | 300 ft³ | 6.83 |
| 1 Bedroom | $3,053 | 450 ft³ | 6.78 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $5,050 | 750 ft³ | 6.73 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $7,352 | 1100 ft³ | 6.68 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $10,614 | 1600 ft³ | 6.63 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $11,850 | 1800 ft³ | 6.58 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from San Diego to Houston guide.
Compare the 5 Best Houston 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) |
Pinpoint Movers
7100 Regency Square Blvd Suite 199
Houston, TX, 77036
About Pinpoint Movers
Pinpoint Movers is a women-owned and family-operated moving company located in Houston, Texas that is licensed and insured to handle all...
Services
- Homepage:
- Residential moving
- Commercial moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3070055 / 944442 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 1 |
| Registered Drivers | 1 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 1 (2021) |
Right Rate Movers of Houston
2925 Richmond Ave
Houston, TX, 77098
About Right Rate Movers of Houston
Right Rate Movers of Houston is a trusted and reliable moving company recognized as an industry leader in terms of affordability...
Services
- Residential Moving
- Labor Only
- Packing Services
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2200927 / - Active Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 1 |
| Registered Drivers | 1 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | - |
Go Movers
Missouri City, TX
About Go Movers
Go Movers has been serving as Houston, TX's trusted relocation experts for the past 10 years. They provide both local and...
Services
- Local moves
- Nationwide moves
- Cheap moves
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3790949 / 1365663 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 1 |
| Registered Drivers | 2 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 200 (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.
Houston vs. San Diego Neighborhood Comparison
Moving between cities can be daunting, especially when you're not familiar with your new surroundings. This comparison aims to bridge that gap by examining popular neighborhoods in Houston, TX & San Diego, CA and aligning them with each other. This guide is designed to help you find a slice of home in a new city by offering a familiar baseline for your relocation.
| Houston | San Diego | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| The Heights | North Park | Vibrant arts scene and historic homes |
| Montrose | Hillcrest | Diverse culture with bustling LGBTQ+ community |
| River Oaks | La Jolla | Upscale living with ocean views |
| Midtown | Little Italy | Trendy, walkable neighborhood with dining hotspots |
| West University | Del Mar | Family-friendly with top-rated schools |
| EaDo (East Downtown) | Gaslamp Quarter | Lively nightlife and entertainment |
| Galleria | Fashion Valley | Shopping paradise with luxury brands |
| Rice Military | Pacific Beach | Young and energetic vibe with beach access |
| Museum District | Balboa Park | Rich in museums and cultural institutions |
| Clear Lake | Point Loma | Waterfront living and boating community |
Consideration of neighborhood character is crucial when relocating, especially for those who cherish local culture, dining, and outdoor activities. For instance, if the eclectic eateries and vibrant arts scene of Houston's Montrose have captivated you, you'll likely find San Diego's Hillcrest to be a delightful new home base, with its inclusive atmosphere and variety of dining options, such as the renowned Baja Betty's. Similarly, the upscale, serene residential vibe of River Oaks has a counterpart in La Jolla, where luxury meets stunning seaside views, exemplified by the iconic La Jolla Cove. Those moving from Houston's Galleria, a shopper's paradise, will find a seamless transition to the shopping meccas of Fashion Valley, featuring high-end retailers like Neiman Marcus. Each neighborhood offers unique parks, eateries, and sights, ensuring a blend of familiar charm and new experiences.
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 Houston to San Diego
Moving from one city to another is a thrilling step that comes with its own set of challenges and rewards. This comparison serves as an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of moving from Houston, TX to San Diego, CA. By examining both sides, you can make a well-informed decision on whether this relocation aligns with your lifestyle and preferences.
Houston, TX- High humidity
- More affordable housing
- Less scenic beauty
- Lower walkability
San Diego, CA- Milder climate
- Higher cost of living
- Beach access
- High walkability
San Diego, CA- Higher housing costs
- Competitive job market
- Higher meal prices
- Smaller park spaces
Houston, TX- Lower cost of living
- Job opportunities in energy sector
- Diverse food scene
- Larger state park access
Despite the higher cost of living in San Diego, CA, the benefits such as improved climate and increased opportunities for outdoor activities often outweigh the financial considerations. San Diego's milder climate allows for year-round enjoyment of its beautiful beaches like La Jolla Shores and scenic parks such as Balboa Park. The city is also renowned for its vibrant food scene, with a plethora of restaurants and cafes such as Café Gratitude and George's at the Cove offering diverse and high-quality dining options. Moreover, San Diego's well-designed urban layout promotes higher walkability, making it easier to explore popular areas like the Gaslamp Quarter without the need for a vehicle. In contrast, Houston’s more affordable lifestyle offers vast job opportunities, especially in the energy sector, and a diverse culinary scene, which includes spots like Uchi for sushi enthusiasts. Ultimately, the choice between Houston's affordability and San Diego's quality of life depends on what you value more in a living environment.
Houston vs. San Diego Food Guide
Food plays a pivotal role in understanding local culture and the overall vibe of a place you're considering moving to. Through this comparison of the local cuisine between Houston & San Diego , we aim to enrich your perspective on what culinary delights await in your potential new home.
| Houston | San Diego | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Texas BBQ | Fish Tacos |
| Most popular meat dish | Brisket | Carne Asada |
| Most popular street food item | Tacos | California Burrito |
| Most popular vegan food | Vegan BBQ | Vegan Sushi |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
When diving deeper into the food scenes of Houston and San Diego, it becomes apparent why each city holds a special place in the heart of food lovers. In Houston, the aromatic scent of Texas BBQ, particularly brisket at places like Killen's BBQ, defines the city's meat-loving culinary landscape, while the abundant food trucks offer a diverse array of flavors highlighting Houston's multicultural influence. On the west coast, San Diego's food scene shines bright with its fresh and innovative approach to seafood, embodied by the iconic Fish Tacos available in vibrant neighborhoods like Pacific Beach. George’s at the Cove provides a panoramic view of the ocean, enhancing the dining experience with local Californian flavors. Notably, both cities have embraced the vegan movement, with San Diego taking a slight lead in providing an array of vegan eateries and options reflecting its health and fitness-conscious community.
Houston vs. San Diego Restaurant Comparison
Finding comfort and familiarity in your new city starts with exploring its culinary scene. This restaurant comparison is crafted to help bridge the move from Houston, TX to San Diego, CA, by connecting you with your next favorite eateries . Whether you’re seeking high-end dining experiences, casual bites, or the iconic flavors that define a city, we’ve got you covered.
| Houston | San Diego | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Uchi | Sushi Ota | Exceptional sushi and Japanese cuisine, capturing Uchi's upscale dining vibe |
| The Breakfast Klub | Great Maple | Known for its modern American comfort food, reminiscent of The Breakfast Klub's soulful breakfasts |
| Truth BBQ | Grand Ole BBQ | Authentic Texas barbecue experience in California, similar smoky flavors to Truth BBQ |
| Hugo's | El Agave | Offering traditional Mexican cuisine with a contemporary twist, echoing Hugo's sophisticated approach |
| BCN Taste & Tradition | Costera | Provides a culinary journey through Spain with dishes that parallel BCN's menu |
| Pappadeaux Seafood Kitchen | Blue Water Seafood Market & Grill | Fresh, quality seafood that rivals the selection at Pappadeaux |
| Phoenicia Specialty Foods | Balboa International Market | World-class international grocery experience similar to Phoenicia |
| Kenny & Ziggy's New York Delicatessen | D.Z. Akin's | Deli offerings that immediately remind one of Kenny & Ziggy's, with an authentic New York deli feel |
| Crawfish & Noodles | Bug & Grits | Infuses Southern cuisine and seafood with a creative twist, echoing Crawfish & Noodles' spirit |
| Ninfa's on Navigation | Lola 55 | Famed for tacos that could stand up to Ninfa's, with an emphasis on culinary excellence and innovation |
As you begin to explore San Diego's dining scene, places like Sushi Ota and Great Maple stand out for their exceptional culinary experiences that remind one of Houston's favorites. Whether it’s the artistry and intimate dining experience found at Uchi which is mirrored by Sushi Ota, or the soulful, hearty breakfasts at The Breakfast Klub finding a counterpart in Great Maple's modern American comfort food, each restaurant offers a unique taste of home. Transitioning from Texas to California doesn't mean leaving behind the flavors you love, but rather discovering new favorites that carry the essence of what you enjoyed back in Houston.
Ready to start your move?
Houston vs. San Diego Real Estate & Living Facts
When planning your move, comparing the real estate landscapes of your current and future cities is crucial. This guide provides a snapshot of how Houston and San Diego stack up in terms of housing aspects such as cost, architecture, and lifestyle. Understanding these differences can help you make an informed decision and prepare for your new life.
| Comparison | Houston | San Diego |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Ranch, Modern | Spanish, Modern |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Spacious yards, Energy efficiency | Ocean views, Sustainability |
As highlighted, the median home price and monthly rent figures starkly contrast between Houston and San Diego, reflecting the higher cost of living in California. While Houston homes often boast spacious yards and energy-efficient features, San Diego listings frequently highlight ocean views and sustainable living options. For those prioritizing an active lifestyle, San Diego offers slightly better walkability and bikeability scores, alongside a slightly higher urban lifestyle rating. These differences aren't just about numbers; they reflect the unique character and priorities of each city, from Houston's sprawling ranch-style homes to San Diego's ocean-view properties that embrace Spanish architectural influences.
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.
Houston vs. San Diego Weather Considerations
Understanding how the weather in your new city compares to what you're accustomed to is crucial. If you're considering a move, knowing the climate differences between Houston and San Diego can help ease your transition. This comparison aims to highlight the key weather distinctions that might affect your daily life after the move.
Houston, TX
San Diego, CA
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Houston, TX
San Diego, CA
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Houston, TX
San Diego, CA
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Houston, TX
San Diego, CA
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Houston | San Diego |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Moderate | Good |
| Natural Disasters | Hurricanes, Flooding | Earthquakes, Wildfires |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
When moving from Houston to San Diego, you'll notice a significant difference in climate and lifestyle due to weather changes. San Diego boasts more days of sunshine and milder temperatures year-round, which can have a profound impact on outdoor activities and overall well-being. The decreased humidity in San Diego compared to Houston could also mean fewer bad hair days and a more comfortable living environment for those sensitive to moisture. Moreover, adjusting to the natural disaster risks—trading hurricanes and flooding for earthquakes and wildfires—requires different preparation. Lastly, the stark difference in annual rainfall means that San Diego enjoys more consistent sunny days, offering a brighter environment for your new adventure.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Houston to San Diego
When planning to relocate, understanding the financial landscape of your new home compared to your current one is crucial. This comparison will highlight how money and finance in Houston, TX, and San Diego, CA might affect your budget and lifestyle. Knowing these differences ensures a smoother transition.
| Comparison | Houston | San Diego |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $55,499 | $93,042 |
| Cost of Living Index | 92.2 | 132.3 |
| State Income Tax | 0% | up to 13.3% |
| Avg. Property Tax | 2.03% | 0.76% |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 8.25% | 7.75% |
| Top 3 Industries | Energy, Manufacturing, Aeronautics | Defense/Military, Tourism, International Trade |
| Affluence | Moderate | High |
| Poverty | Moderate | Lower |
| Homelessness | High | Very High |
Comparing Houston and San Diego financially reveals significant differences. San Diego residents enjoy a higher average household income, which is beneficial due to the city's considerably higher cost of living index. Texas' lack of state income tax contrasts sharply with California's progressive tax system, potentially affecting your take-home pay significantly. Property taxes in Houston are notably higher, but this is counterbalanced by San Diego's steep general cost of living, including housing. The economic landscapes of both cities are shaped by their leading industries, with energy and aeronautics dominating Houston, while San Diego thrives on defense, tourism, and trade. Despite the financial challenges such as higher costs and taxes in San Diego, its affluence level is higher, which can translate to potentially more opportunities for prosperity.
Houston vs. San Diego Political & Religious Comparison
Moving from Houston, TX to San Diego, CA introduces significant changes beyond just the landscape and weather. To help you understand what you're stepping into, this quick comparison will provide insights into the political and religious makeup comparing Houston & San Diego . Discover what the typical resident believes and values in these vibrant cities.
| Houston | San Diego | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Mixed, with a slight Democratic lean | Strongly Democratic |
| Local Politics | Competitive, with a focus on business and energy sectors | Progressive, with emphasis on environmental policies |
| Religion | Diverse, with a strong evangelical Christian presence | Diverse, with a notable non-religious community |
Though both Houston and San Diego boast diverse populations, you'll find significant differences in the political and religious landscapes. Houston's political environment is notably competitive, influenced heavily by the energy sector, and hosts a diverse religious population with a strong evangelical presence. In contrast, San Diego leans more strongly Democratic, with local politics often focusing on progressive environmental policies. Additionally, San Diego's population includes a larger non-religious community compared to Houston. These differences reflect the unique cultural and social fabric of each city, illustrating the nuanced shifts you'll experience in daily life after your move.
Houston vs. San Diego Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
This guide aims to compare the traffic and transportation options between Houston & San Diego to better understand what the daily commute and traffic is like in these two cities. Whether you're considering the move for work, lifestyle, or a change of scenery, knowing how to navigate your new home is essential.
| Comparison | Houston | San Diego |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 26.5 | 24.7 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | Difficult | Moderately Easy |
In Houston, the reliance on cars is notably higher due to its sprawling layout and less developed public transit system, making it difficult to navigate the city without owning a vehicle. On the other hand, San Diego offers slightly better public transit options, including trolleys and buses that cover more of the city, making it somewhat easier to get by without a car. Traffic congestion in San Diego, though still present, is less intense compared to Houston, potentially reducing your daily commute time. Understanding these differences can greatly impact your decision on where to live and work within these cities.
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