Best Tacoma to Chula Vista Movers + Moving Guide

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If you're moving from Tacoma to Chula Vista and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 1,228 mile move from Washington to California go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 34 Tacoma to Chula Vista 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 The Rock Movers), how much the move costs (approximately $2,000 - $7,000 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Tacoma compared to Chula Vista. 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 Tacoma to Chula Vista Moving Companies

RankCompany NameRating QuestionAffordability IndexLicenseContact
1The Rock Movers9.499.53Authorized For HHGContact
2Coast 2 Coast Moving, Inc.9.469.62Authorized For HHGContact
3John Volken Academy Movers9.339.65Authorized For HHGContact
4First Due Movers9.259.06Authorized For Property, HHGContact
5People Movers9.169.54Authorized For PropertyContact
Phone (800) 787-5428

Cost to Move from Tacoma to Chula Vista

Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 1,228 miles from Tacoma, WA to Chula Vista, CA will cost on average $2,826 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Tacoma to Chula Vista move is roughly $6,797. 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$1,899300 ft³6.33
1 Bedroom$2,826450 ft³6.28
2 Bedrooms$4,672750 ft³6.23
3 Bedrooms$6,7971100 ft³6.18
4 Bedrooms$9,8061600 ft³6.13
5+ Bedrooms$10,9421800 ft³6.08
*Please note: These Washington to California moving prices are rough approximations based upon nationwide data as well as local and statewide data from Washington & 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 WA to CA mover.
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Chula Vista to Tacoma guide.

Compare the 5 Best Tacoma to Chula Vista 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
John Volken Academy Movers Logo

John Volken Academy Movers

Exceptional9.33/10
based on 1,571+ data points

921 Central Ave N

Kent, WA, 98032

About John Volken Academy Movers

John Volken Academy Movers is a not-for-profit moving company that helps people move across Western and Eastern Washington. This local business...

Services

  • Local Moving
  • Commercial Moving
  • Residential Moving

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2261169 / 1666977

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans6
Registered Drivers8
Total Annual Miles Moved200 (2015)
View Full Review
3
First Due Movers Logo

First Due Movers

Exceptional9.25/10
based on 1,542+ data points

8126 304th Ave SE

Preston, WA, 98050

About First Due Movers

First Due Movers is based in Preston, Washington, but offers nationwide moving services. The company is actually owned by local Washington...

Services

  • Residential Moves
  • Commercial Moves
  • Long-Distance Moves

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

1990914 / 865709

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans12
Registered Drivers20
Total Annual Miles Moved205,000 (2022)
View Full Review
4
People Movers Logo

People Movers

Exceptional9.16/10
based on 3,624+ data points

11808 NE 160th St

Bothell, WA, 98011

About People Movers

People Movers is a fully licensed moving company in Bothell, WA. It has relocated hundreds of happy customers in Greater Seattle...

Services

  • Local moving
  • Long-distance moving
  • Cross-country moving

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2895681 / 1597195

Authorized For Property

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans2
Registered Drivers2
Total Annual Miles Moved25,000 (2023)
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.

Tacoma vs. Chula Vista Neighborhood Comparison

Moving between cities can be seamless when you find a neighborhood that feels like home. Our guide offers a comparison of local neighborhoods between Tacoma, WA & Chula Vista, CA, aimed at making your transition smoother by identifying equivalent communities in your new city. Discover where your lifestyle and preferences fit best in Chula Vista, based on the familiar vibes of Tacoma's top neighborhoods.

TacomaChula VistaHow They're Similar
North EndEastlakeFamily-friendly atmosphere
Proctor DistrictRolling Hills RanchQuaint community vibes
Old TownThird Avenue VillageHistoric charm
Stadium DistrictTerra NovaShopping and dining options
HilltopMontecito RidgeDiverse community
Central TacomaOtay RanchWell-rounded amenities
Sixth AvenueSouthwest Chula VistaVibrant nightlife
Lincoln DistrictLomas VerdesCulturally rich area
RustonSan Miguel RanchNatural scenery and outdoor activities
EastsideRancho del ReyFamily-oriented, with parks and schools

For those captivated by the historic charm and bustling local businesses of Tacoma's Old Town, Third Avenue Village in Chula Vista welcomes you with its similar sense of community and history. Imagine walking through picturesque streets lined with boutique shops, much like Proctor District, but in the quaint surroundings of Rolling Hills Ranch. For outdoor enthusiasts who love the natural beauty and recreational options of Ruston, San Miguel Ranch offers an equally enticing backdrop for adventure, surrounded by the breathtaking landscapes southern California is known for. Whether it's the artsy vibe of Sixth Avenue you’re looking to replicate in the vibrant nightlife of Southwest Chula Vista or the diverse and welcoming community of Hilltop found in Montecito Ridge, each neighborhood comparison is designed to find your slice of home in Chula Vista.

Ready to start your move?

Pros and Cons of Moving from Tacoma to Chula Vista

Moving from one city to another is a significant decision that comes with both positive and negative implications. This guide provides an honest comparison between Tacoma, WA, and Chula Vista, CA, to help you weigh your options carefully. By exploring the cons of Tacoma compared to the pros of Chula Vista and vice versa, you can make an informed decision about your relocation.

CONs
PROs
Tacoma, WA iconTacoma, WA
  • Higher rain
  • Cooler climate
  • Less diversity
  • More expensive housing
Chula Vista, CA iconChula Vista, CA
  • Sunnier days
  • Warmer temperatures
  • Greater diversity
  • More affordable housing
Chula Vista, CA iconChula Vista, CA
  • Smaller arts community
  • Less green spaces
  • Higher crime rates
  • Busier lifestyle
Tacoma, WA iconTacoma, WA
  • Vibrant arts scene
  • Beautiful nature
  • Lower crime rates
  • Quieter lifestyle

Moving from Tacoma to Chula Vista offers you a chance to enjoy the vibrant culture and warmer weather of Southern California. Chula Vista is renowned for its beautiful parks, such as the scenic Otay Valley Regional Park, where outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy hiking and bird watching. The city's Third Avenue Village offers a unique shopping and dining experience that reflects the local diversity. In contrast, Tacoma is well-loved for its lush, green landscapes and a more relaxed way of life, with neighborhoods like the Proctor District offering quaint shops and friendly cafes. Ultimately, your decision to move will depend on what you value more: the bustling, sunny vibe of Chula Vista or the serene, verdant ambiance of Tacoma.

Tacoma vs. Chula Vista Food Guide

Understanding the local cuisine is crucial when moving to a new city as food is an important part of local culture and what it's like to live in an area. In this guide, we will provide a comparison of the local cuisine between Tacoma, WA & Chula Vista, CA to help you get a better sense of the culinary landscape you're moving into.

TacomaChula Vista
Most iconic local food itemPacific Northwest SeafoodCalifornia Burrito
Most popular meat dishGrilled SalmonCarne Asada
Most popular street food itemFish TacosTacos al Pastor
Most popular vegan foodQuinoa SaladVegan Tacos
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
  • WildFin American Grill
  • Indochine Asian Dining Lounge
  • The Table
  • Aqui Es Texcoco
  • Tacos El Gordo
  • Italianissimo Trattoria
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
Abundance of Food Trucks🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
Foodie Scene🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

In Tacoma, you'll find a strong emphasis on Pacific Northwest Seafood, with places like WildFin American Grill presenting the best of local catches. Chula Vista, on the other hand, offers a robust Mexican cuisine scene, epitomized by the California Burrito and establishments like Aqui Es Texcoco. Besides the iconic foods, Chula Vista has a buzzing food truck culture, especially around areas like Third Avenue Village, where you can sample everything from authentic Tacos al Pastor to gourmet vegan options. The healthier lifestyle and vegan-friendly options are more pronounced in Chula Vista, reflecting California's overall health-conscious trends.

Tacoma vs. Chula Vista Restaurant Comparison

Finding comfort in a new city often begins with discovering places that make it feel like home. This comparison of top Tacoma to Chula Vista restaurants aims to help you uncover your next favorite dining spots by connecting you with equivalents in your new locale. Whether you're a foodie or just looking for that perfect meal to remind you of home, this guide is designed to make your transition tastier.

TacomaChula VistaWhat You'll Love
Indochine Asian Dining LoungeZorbas Greek BuffetBoth offer a unique take on traditional cuisines with a modern twist.
The TableItalianissimo TrattoriaKnown for farm-to-table freshness and handcrafted dishes.
Over the Moon CafeCafé La RueCozy spots for American European fusion comfort food.
Stanley & Seafort'sGalley at the MarinaWaterfront dining with stunning views and seafood specialties.
En RamaEl Cruce + 241Both spots offer a casual chic vibe with innovative cocktails and small plates.
MSM DeliSeñor BajaBoth are go-to spots for casual and delicious eats, offering unique sandwiches and tacos respectively.
Doyle's Public HouseThird Avenue AlehouseCraft beer enthusiasts will find a similarly welcoming pub atmosphere and selection.
WildFin American GrillNovo Brazil Brewing Co.Both are perfect for those who appreciate a good meal with their craft beer.
Pacific GrillFernando's CafeBoth establishments offer a diverse menu that caters to a variety of tastes and dietary needs.
Boathouse 19The Landing GrillBoth offer comforting classics with a view, making them perfect for family dining.

As you explore the culinary landscape of Chula Vista, you'll find that it mirrors the diversity and quality of Tacoma's dining scene in many ways. For instance, Zorbas Greek Buffet and Indochine Asian Dining Lounge both provide an immersive atmosphere that pairs beautifully with their authentic, flavor-packed dishes, making for an unforgettable dining experience. Over at Italianissimo Trattoria, you'll discover a close kinship with The Table's commitment to locally sourced ingredients and masterfully crafted meals. And for those casual yet soul-satisfying meals, MSM Deli's counterpart in Chula Vista, Señor Baja, showcases how a dedication to simple, fresh ingredients can create fast-casual food that's both memorable and delicious. These comparisons just scratch the surface of what your new hometown has to offer, setting the stage for culinary exploration and discovery.

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Ready to start your move?

Tacoma vs. Chula Vista Real Estate & Living Facts

Real estate is crucial in a move, highlighting the need to compare the housing landscapes between Tacoma, WA and Chula Vista, CA. This comparison focuses on cost, architecture, walkability, and more, offering a broad view of what each city offers.

ComparisonTacomaChula Vista
Typical Architecture StyleVictorian and CraftsmanModern and Spanish Colonial
Walkability 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listingViews of the Puget Sound, Large YardsOcean proximity, Solar panels

When comparing the housing market between Tacoma and Chula Vista, there are notable differences. Homes in Chula Vista tend to be more expensive, reflecting the higher cost of living in California. Architecture in Chula Vista often includes modern and Spanish Colonial styles, reflecting its historical and geographical influences, whereas Tacoma showcases a mix of Victorian and Craftsman homes, hinting at its rich history and diverse cultural background. The urban lifestyle scores are higher in Chula Vista, likely due to its proximity to San Diego, offering more amenities and a bustling city life. Tacoma's real estate listings frequently highlight views of the Puget Sound and large yards, providing a more laid-back and spacious living environment compared to Chula Vista's emphasis on ocean proximity and sustainable living options like solar panels.

Pet-friendly neighborhoods background image

Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Chula Vista, CA

1. Eastlake: Known for its spacious parks and dog-friendly trails, Eastlake is the perfect neighborhood to enjoy outdoor activities with your pet.

2. Otay Ranch: This neighborhood boasts a dedicated Otay Ranch Town Center with an outdoor shopping experience that welcomes dogs, making it a great place for pet owners.

3. Rolling Hills Ranch: With its numerous walking paths and pet-friendly community spaces, Rolling Hills Ranch offers a serene environment for you and your pet to explore.

Tacoma vs. Chula Vista Weather Considerations

Moving from one city to another can be a significant change, especially when it comes to weather. Understanding how the climate shifts from Tacoma, WA to Chula Vista, CA is crucial for your transition. Below, you'll find a detailed comparison that aims to give you a clearer picture of what to expect.

Summer icon
76/55

Tacoma, WA

78/64

Chula Vista, CA

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
47/37

Tacoma, WA

66/50

Chula Vista, CA

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
39.5

Tacoma, WA

10.1

Chula Vista, CA

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
4.6

Tacoma, WA

0

Chula Vista, CA

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

ComparisonTacomaChula Vista
Air QualityGoodModerate
Natural DisastersEarthquakes, FloodsEarthquakes, Wildfires
Days of Sunshine per Year☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. UV Index🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Avg. Annual Humidity💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦

Moving from Tacoma to Chula Vista introduces you to a markedly different climate. With over 260 days of sunshine, Chula Vista promises more sunny days than Tacoma. However, prepare for warmer winters and slightly higher summer temperatures. The average annual humidity in Chula Vista is lower, resulting in a drier climate. Moreover, considering the drastic differences in annual rainfall and the absence of snow in Chula Vista, you may notice changes in your seasonal allergies. While both cities have their natural disaster risks, Chula Vista's proximity to wildfires contrasts with Tacoma's rainier, more earthquake-prone environment.

Ready to start your move?

Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Tacoma to Chula Vista

When considering a move from Tacoma, WA to Chula Vista, CA, it's vital to understand how your finances will be impacted. Comparing the cost of living, taxes, and average incomes between these two locations will shed light on what changes to expect in terms of day-to-day expenses and overall financial health. This comparison aims to provide you with a clearer financial picture as you plan your move.

ComparisonTacomaChula Vista
Avg. Household Income$77,141$91,949
Cost of Living Index109.5136.4
State Income Tax0%9.3%
Avg. Property Tax1.1%0.77%
Avg. Sales Tax9.6%8.5%
Top 3 IndustriesTechnology, Healthcare, ManufacturingDefense, Manufacturing, Tourism
AffluenceModerateHigh
PovertyModerateLower
HomelessnessHighModerate

Between Tacoma, WA, and Chula Vista, CA, several key financial differences can impact your living situation significantly. While Chula Vista boasts a higher average household income, it also comes with a higher cost of living index, indicating more expensive day-to-day expenses. California's state income tax presents an additional financial consideration that doesn't apply in Washington. However, property taxes are notably more favorable in Chula Vista. The region's top industries mirror these cities' economic diversity, with technology and healthcare leading in Tacoma, and defense and tourism notable in Chula Vista. Such economic structures contribute significantly to each city's affluence and poverty levels, casting Chula Vista in a somewhat more favorable light regarding economic opportunities and living standards.

Tacoma vs. Chula Vista Political & Religious Comparison

This quick comparison aims to provide you with an insight into the communities of Tacoma, WA, and Chula Vista, CA, particularly focusing on the politics between Tacoma & Chula Vista and the religious landscapes. Whether you're curious about the political leanings or the religious environment, this guide offers a snapshot to help with your transition.

TacomaChula Vista
Political Make-upLean DemocraticLean Democratic
Local PoliticsProgressive PoliciesModerate to Progressive
ReligionChristianity dominant, diverse religious communitiesLargely Christian, with a significant Catholic population

When moving from Tacoma to Chula Vista, you'll find yourself transitioning between two communities that both lean Democratic, though Chula Vista might display a more moderate to progressive political climate. This subtle shift could influence local policies and community initiatives differently than what you're accustomed to in Tacoma. While both cities are predominantly Christian, Chula Vista has a notably significant Catholic community, reflecting in its religious institutions and community events. Understanding these nuances will aid you in adapting to your new environment seamlessly and with a better grasp of the local cultural and political landscape.

Tacoma vs. Chula Vista Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

Understanding the daily commute and traffic is crucial when moving between cities. This comparison of traffic and transportation options between Tacoma & Chula Vista aims to help you better comprehend what to expect in your new surroundings.

ComparisonTacomaChula Vista
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)2932
Traffic Congestion 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦
Availability of Public Transit 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇
Can you get by without a car?ChallengingDifficult

If you're making the move from Tacoma to Chula Vista, you'll find slight differences in daily commuting experiences. Tacoma’s average commute time is slightly less than Chula Vista's, highlighting overall lighter traffic despite its bustling nature. Tacoma also scores slightly lower in traffic congestion, possibly due to its smaller geographic size and effective traffic management. While public transit availability is fairly similar in both cities, navigating without a car proves to be more challenging in Tacoma and difficult in Chula Vista, suggesting a stronger reliance on personal vehicles in both locales. As you adapt to your new home, these comparisons will help set realistic expectations for your daily travel.

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