Best Tacoma to San Diego Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from Tacoma to San Diego and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 1,221 mile move from Washington to California go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 38 Tacoma 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 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 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 Tacoma 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 | John Volken Academy Movers | 9.33 | 9.65 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 4 | First Due Movers | 9.25 | 9.06 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
| 5 | People Movers | 9.16 | 9.54 | Authorized For Property | Contact |
(800) 787-5428Cost to Move from Tacoma to San Diego
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 1,221 miles from Tacoma, WA to San Diego, CA will cost on average $2,820 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Tacoma to San Diego move is roughly $6,782. 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 | $1,895 | 300 ft³ | 6.32 |
| 1 Bedroom | $2,820 | 450 ft³ | 6.27 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $4,662 | 750 ft³ | 6.22 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $6,782 | 1100 ft³ | 6.17 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $9,785 | 1600 ft³ | 6.12 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $10,918 | 1800 ft³ | 6.07 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from San Diego to Tacoma guide.
Compare the 5 Best Tacoma 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) |
John Volken Academy Movers
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
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2261169 / 1666977 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 6 |
| Registered Drivers | 8 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 200 (2015) |
First Due Movers
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
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 1990914 / 865709 Authorized For Property, HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 12 |
| Registered Drivers | 20 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 205,000 (2022) |
People Movers
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
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2895681 / 1597195 Authorized For Property Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 2 |
| Registered Drivers | 2 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 25,000 (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.
Tacoma vs. San Diego Neighborhood Comparison
Moving to a new city can be daunting, especially when you're not familiar with the local neighborhoods. To ease this transition, we've created a guide to help you find your San Diego equivalent if you're moving from Tacoma, WA. By comparing popular neighborhoods in both cities, we aim to make this a comparison of the local neighborhoods between Tacoma, WA & San Diego, CA to help you find your new home away from home.
| Tacoma | San Diego | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| North End | La Jolla | Upscale waterfront living |
| Proctor District | Hillcrest | Vibrant and walkable community |
| Stadium District | Little Italy | Historic with a strong sense of community |
| Sixth Avenue | North Park | Hub for arts and culture |
| Old Town | Old Town San Diego | Rich in history and culture |
| Hilltop | Logan Heights | Diverse and culturally rich |
| South Tacoma | Barrio Logan | Creative vibe with strong community ties |
| Lincoln District | Kearny Mesa | Multicultural and family-friendly |
| Eastside | Encanto | Residential with strong sense of community |
| Point Defiance | Balboa Park | Large urban park with cultural institutions |
If you adore the waterfront lifestyle of Tacoma's North End with its stunning views and laid-back atmosphere, you'll find a similar vibe in La Jolla, known for its breathtaking oceanfront properties and upscale dining. For those drawn to the vibrant, community-focused lifestyle of the Proctor District, Hillcrest in San Diego offers a comparable bustling atmosphere with an eclectic mix of shops, restaurants, and a supportive LGBTQ+ community. Fans of Tacoma's historical Stadium District, with its majestic homes and local parks, will appreciate the charm of Little Italy's tight-knit community and cultural festivals. Lastly, if you're looking for an area brimming with arts and culture similar to Sixth Avenue, North Park will not disappoint with its art galleries, quirky boutiques, and vibrant nightlife, making it an ideal neighborhood for creatives and culture enthusiasts alike.
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 Tacoma to San Diego
Moving from one city to another brings a mixed bag of changes. This comparison aims to show an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of relocating from Tacoma, WA to San Diego, CA . By contrasting the pros and cons directly, you'll gain clearer insight into what aspects of your life will transition seamlessly and which ones may require some adaptation.
Tacoma, WA- Less sunshine
- Cooler summers
- Higher rain levels
- Smaller city vibe
San Diego, CA- More sunny days
- Warmer summers
- Lower rainfall
- Bigger city feel
San Diego, CA- Less greenery areas
- Further from mountains
- Higher housing costs
- More urbanized settings
Tacoma, WA- Natural green scenery
- Close to mountains
- Less expensive housing
- More quaint neighborhoods
Tacoma's temperate climate with its lush greenery and proximity to the Cascade and Olympic Mountains offers an unparalleled connection to the outdoors, ideal for those who love nature and outdoor activities. In contrast, San Diego's hallmark is its near-perfect, sunny weather year-round, inviting residents and tourists to its numerous beaches like La Jolla Shores and Coronado Beach. The culinary scene in San Diego is a vibrant mix of international cuisines, highlighted by establishments such as Lolita's Mexican Food and the iconic Phil's BBQ, making it a foodie's paradise. However, while San Diego provides a bigger city feel with its broader range of amenities and entertainment options, it comes with the caveat of higher living expenses, particularly in housing. Thus, the move from Tacoma to San Diego necessitates readiness for higher costs in exchange for an enhanced lifestyle and climate.
Tacoma vs. San Diego Food Guide
Deciding where to live involves many factors, and this is a comparison of the local cuisine between Tacoma & San Diego to help you understand the food scene in your potential new city. Food plays a vital role in local culture and lifestyle, so let's dive into what culinary delights await you.
| Tacoma | San Diego | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Dungeness Crab | California Burrito |
| Most popular meat dish | Beer Brats | Carne Asada |
| Most popular street food item | Street Tacos | Fish Tacos |
| Most popular vegan food | Veggie Pho | Jackfruit Tacos |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
In comparing Tacoma and San Diego, you'll find both cities offer unique culinary experiences that reflect their local cultures and lifestyles. Tacoma's love for Dungeness Crab and beer brats offers a taste of the Pacific Northwest, with iconic restaurants such as The Table and En Rama showcasing the city's diverse flavors. San Diego, known for its California Burrito and Carne Asada, is a paradise for foodies, especially those looking for vegan options like Jackfruit Tacos. Neighborhoods like Ocean Beach, home to Hodad's, and La Jolla, where George's at the Cove resides, are must-visit areas for new residents to dive into the local food scene. San Diego's abundance of food trucks and high ratings in both the foodie scene and vegan-friendly options reflect its status as a culinary haven on the West Coast.
Tacoma vs. San Diego Restaurant Comparison
Relocating can stir up cravings for familiar flavors and dining experiences that remind you of home. This restaurant comparison between Tacoma, WA, and San Diego, CA, aims to ease your transition by guiding you to your new go-to eateries, basing them on your old favorites. Whether you're seeking cozy cafes, buzzing bistros, or elegant eateries, this guide is designed to make San Diego feel a little more like home.
| Tacoma | San Diego | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Over the Moon Cafe | Madison on Park | Offers a cozy, romantic setting with a unique menu. |
| The Table | Urban Solace | Known for their comfort food with a gourmet twist. |
| Indochine Asian Dining Lounge | Pho Point Loma & Grill | Offers a diverse menu that captures the essence of Asian cuisine. |
| MOSAIC Cafe & Catering | Great Maple | Known for modern American eats in a casual yet polished setting. |
| Pacific Grill | Juniper & Ivy | High-end dining with innovative American cuisine. |
| Frankie's Pizza | Buona Forchetta | Authentic Italian pizza with a cozy neighborhood feel. |
| Metropolitan Grill | The Cowboy Star | Offers a selection of prime meats and a similar sophisticated ambiance. |
| En Rama | Polite Provisions | Cocktail enthusiasts will appreciate the detailed attention to mixology. |
| C.I. Shenanigans | Brigantine Seafood & Oyster Bar | Known for their fresh seafood offerings and maritime vibes. |
| Boathouse 19 | Coasterra | Offers stunning waterfront dining with a focus on modern Mexican dishes. |
When settling into San Diego from Tacoma, you'll discover culinary gems that resonate with the flavors you've loved back home. Madison on Park mirrors the intimate and unique atmosphere of Over the Moon Cafe, making it a perfect spot for those special night outs. Craving the comfort and elegance of The Table's dishes? Urban Solace in San Diego offers a similar experience, comforting the soul with their gourmet twist on American classics. For those who have enjoyed the vibrant flavors and lively ambiance of Indochine Asian Dining Lounge, Pho Point Loma & Grill will not disappoint with its authentic take on Asian cuisine. Your culinary journey doesn’t have to end because of a move; it’s an opportunity to explore new tastes that remind you of home.
Ready to start your move?
Tacoma vs. San Diego Real Estate & Living Facts
When considering a move, comparing real estate dynamics between your current city and potential new home is vital. Understanding the nuances of housing costs, architecture, walkability, and lifestyle between Tacoma, WA and San Diego, CA can significantly influence your decision. This comparison aims to arm you with insights into these critical aspects.
| Comparison | Tacoma | San Diego |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Craftsman | Spanish Eclectic |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Views of Mt. Rainier, large yards | Proximity to the beach, modern amenities |
In comparing Tacoma and San Diego, the distinct difference in median home prices and rental costs stand out, reflecting San Diego's significantly higher cost of living. The architecture in San Diego leans towards the Spanish Eclectic, offering unique aesthetics and an appeal that contrasts with Tacoma's prevalent Craftsman-style homes. Notably, San Diego scores higher in walkability and urban lifestyle , indicative of its vibrant, pedestrian-friendly neighborhoods and the myriad of activities accessible in urban centers. The most sought-after features in real estate listings also diverge, with Tacoma homes boasting large yards and views of Mt. Rainier, while San Diego properties often highlight their modern amenities and proximity to the beaches, painting a picture of two very different lifestyles.
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.
Tacoma vs. San Diego Weather Considerations
Moving from Tacoma, WA to San Diego, CA involves not just a change of scenery, but also a significant shift in climate conditions. To help you adjust, it’s crucial to understand how the weather compares in these two locales. This comparison aims to illuminate the differences and similarities, preparing you for what to expect weather-wise.
Tacoma, WA
San Diego, CA
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Tacoma, WA
San Diego, CA
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Tacoma, WA
San Diego, CA
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Tacoma, WA
San Diego, CA
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Tacoma | San Diego |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Good | Moderate |
| Natural Disasters | Earthquakes, Volcanoes | Earthquakes, Wildfires |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
When moving from Tacoma to San Diego, you’ll notice a dramatic increase in sunny days and a significant decrease in rain and snowfall. San Diego enjoys more than double the number of sunny days compared to Tacoma, meaning more opportunities for outdoor activities year-round. However, with the increase in sunshine comes a higher UV index in San Diego, making sun protection more important. Additionally, while both cities are prone to earthquakes, San Diego residents must also be aware of the risk of wildfires, which differ from Tacoma's natural disaster risks, including volcanoes. Understanding these differences equips you for a smoother transition to your new home in San Diego.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Tacoma to San Diego
Relocating from one city to another can be a massive change, especially financially. Understanding how Tacoma, WA and San Diego, CA compare in terms of money and finance is crucial. This comparison will help manage expectations and prepare for the new cost of living.
| Comparison | Tacoma | San Diego |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $77,141 | $93,042 |
| Cost of Living Index | 109.5 | 132.3 |
| State Income Tax | 0 | 0 |
| Avg. Property Tax | 1.1 | 0.76 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 9.6 | 7.75 |
| Top 3 Industries | Logistics, Healthcare, Manufacturing | Defense/Military, Tourism, International Trade |
| Affluence | Moderate | High |
| Poverty | Moderate | Lower |
| Homelessness | Significant | High |
When moving from Tacoma to San Diego, it's essential to prepare for higher living costs, as reflected in San Diego’s higher cost of living index. Despite San Diego's average household income being greater, expenses like housing and daily needs may also be more substantial due to the city's high affluence level. It's also noteworthy that both cities have a sales tax, but Tacoma has a significantly higher rate. Moreover, top industries greatly differ between the two cities, implying different job opportunities. Keep these financial perspectives in mind as you plan your relocation to adjust your budget and lifestyle expectations accordingly.
Tacoma vs. San Diego Political & Religious Comparison
When planning your move from Tacoma, WA to San Diego, CA, understanding the community you're about to join is crucial. This quick comparison provides an overview of the politics between Tacoma & San Diego and the religious landscape, offering insights into the lives and beliefs of their residents.
| Tacoma | San Diego | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Liberal | Liberal |
| Local Politics | City Governance | City Governance |
| Religion | Diverse, with Christianity being predominant | Religiously diverse, strong Catholic presence |
In both Tacoma and San Diego, you'll find a predominantly liberal political climate, though the specific issues and policies that are important to local residents can vary. Both cities boast diverse religious communities. Tacoma's religious landscape is varied, with Christianity as the most practiced faith. In contrast, San Diego has a significant Catholic community, reflecting its historical and cultural ties to Catholic missions. Local politics in each city are managed through their respective city governance systems, where you can stay informed and get involved in your new community.
Tacoma vs. San Diego Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Moving from Tacoma, WA, to San Diego, CA means adapting to a different daily commute and traffic environment. This guide compares the traffic and transportation options between Tacoma & San Diego to help you better understand what to expect when getting around in your new city.
| Comparison | Tacoma | San Diego |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 29 | 25 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | Possible, but challenging | More feasible, but depends on area |
In Tacoma, you might find yourself spending a few more minutes on your commute compared to San Diego, though both cities experience their share of traffic congestion. However, San Diego rates slightly higher in terms of public transit availability, offering options like the San Diego Trolley and buses, which make navigating the city without a car a bit easier. While living without a car in Tacoma is possible, especially with the Sound Transit services, San Diego provides a somewhat more manageable environment for those seeking to rely less on personal vehicles. Location in San Diego plays a significant role in how feasible it is to go carless, with neighborhoods like Downtown, Hillcrest, and North Park being more transit-friendly.
Additional Resources
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