Best Vancouver to San Diego Movers + Moving Guide

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If you're moving from Vancouver to San Diego and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 1,085 mile move from Washington to California go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 30 Vancouver 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 - $6,500 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Vancouver 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 Vancouver 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
3Northwest Grace Moving9.299.28Authorized For HHGContact
4All Service Moving9.278.91Authorized For Property, HHGContact
5Comfortable Moving9.159.55Authorized For HHGContact
Phone (800) 787-5428

Cost to Move from Vancouver to San Diego

Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 1,085 miles from Vancouver, WA to San Diego, CA will cost on average $2,704 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Vancouver to San Diego move is roughly $6,500. 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$1,818300 ft³6.06
1 Bedroom$2,704450 ft³6.01
2 Bedrooms$4,469750 ft³5.96
3 Bedrooms$6,5001100 ft³5.91
4 Bedrooms$9,3741600 ft³5.86
5+ Bedrooms$10,4561800 ft³5.81
*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 San Diego to Vancouver guide.

Compare the 5 Best Vancouver 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
Northwest Grace Moving Logo

Northwest Grace Moving

Exceptional9.29/10
based on 605+ data points

19764 Cypresswood St

Oregon City, OR, 97045

About Northwest Grace Moving

Founded in 2008, Northwest Grace Moving is a fully licensed, bonded, and insured Oregon moving company that serves the entire Portland...

Services

  • Local Moving
  • Long Distance Moving
  • Senior Moving

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 8/9/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

1999959 / 755213

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans3
Registered Drivers3
Total Annual Miles Moved50,000 (2023)
View Full Review
3
All Service Moving Logo

All Service Moving

Exceptional
claimed company icon
9.27/10
based on 9,065+ data points

66 SE Morrison St

Portland, OR, 97214

About All Service Moving

Based in Portland, OR, Willamette Valley Moving has provided moving services in Oregon, Washington, and Idaho for over 18 years. By...

Services

  • Residential Moving
  • Commercial Moving
  • Long Distance Moving

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

1863079 / 722865

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans80
Registered Drivers113
Total Annual Miles Moved1,186,786 (2022)
View Full Review
4
Comfortable Moving Logo

Comfortable Moving

Exceptional9.15/10
based on 691+ data points

3305 Main St # 023

Vancouver, WA, 98663

About Comfortable Moving

Comfortable Moving is a family-owned and operated moving business providing residential and commercial moving services since 2017. Based in Vancouver, WA,...

Services

  • Residential Moving
  • Commercial Moving
  • Long-Distance Moving

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 8/23/2022)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3236736 / 1015844

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans1
Registered Drivers1
Total Annual Miles Moved14,000 (2020)
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.

Vancouver vs. San Diego Neighborhood Comparison

Relocating can be a daunting task, especially when moving to an unfamiliar city. To ease this transition, we've curated a comparison of local neighborhoods between Vancouver, WA & San Diego, CA . This guide aims to help you find a slice of familiarity in your new city by matching you with a neighborhood that resonates with your current one.

VancouverSan DiegoHow They're Similar
Fisher's Landing EastCarmel ValleyFamily-friendly, good schools
ArnadaNorth ParkVibrant local arts and dining scene
Downtown VancouverLittle ItalyBustling nightlife, fine dining
FelidaDel MarUpscale, peaceful, near the coast
ShumwayHillcrestDiverse community, rich with culture
Cascade ParkMira MesaSuburban feel, ample parks
LincolnLa JollaAffluent, stunning ocean views
Rose VillageOcean BeachLaid-back, beachfront living
Esther ShortGaslamp QuarterHistoric heart, entertainment hub
HoughSouth ParkHistoric homes, indie shops

In Vancouver, WA, neighborhoods like Fisher's Landing East are known for their family-friendly atmosphere and excellent educational opportunities, reminiscent of what you can find in San Diego's Carmel Valley. Meanwhile, the creative energy and dining options in Arnada closely match the vibrant lifestyle in North Park. For those drawn to the appeal of coastal living with an upscale twist, Felida's tranquil community vibes find a counterpart in Del Mar's luxurious, serene beaches. Envisioning your life in a new city is more than just a house; it's about the community, local diners like Cafe Gratitude in Little Italy for a fine dining experience, or enjoying the sunset at Del Mar's coast. With this guide, you're one step closer to finding your new home neighborhood in San Diego that echoes the comfort of your current one in Vancouver, WA.

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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 Vancouver to San Diego

Moving to a new city comes with its unique set of challenges and opportunities. This comparison aims to offer an honest reflection on moving from Vancouver, WA to San Diego, CA, highlighting the potential upsides and downsides. By examining both the pros and cons, you'll be better equipped to weigh your decision and anticipate the change in lifestyle.

CONs
PROs
Vancouver, WA iconVancouver, WA
  • Less sunny days
  • Higher rainfall
  • More affordable housing
  • Smaller city vibe
  • Close to Portland
San Diego, CA iconSan Diego, CA
  • Year-round sunshine
  • Warmer winters
  • Beach access
  • Vibrant nightlife
  • Diverse cuisine
San Diego, CA iconSan Diego, CA
  • Higher living expenses
  • Less greenery
  • Farther from family
  • More traffic
  • Busier city life
Vancouver, WA iconVancouver, WA
  • Lower cost of living
  • Natural green landscape
  • Proximity to Portland
  • Less traffic congestion
  • Quiet, calm atmosphere

Moving from Vancouver, WA to San Diego, CA, introduces you to a city known for its beautiful beaches, like La Jolla Shores, and a vibrant nightlife in areas such as the Gaslamp Quarter, teeming with bars, restaurants, and clubs. However, you might miss Vancouver's peaceful parks like Esther Short Park, known for its community events. While San Diego's higher living costs and bustling city life mark a significant shift, the city makes up for it with Balboa Park—a cultural hub with museums, gardens, and the renowned San Diego Zoo. The transition offers a trade-off between Vancouver's lower cost of living and quieter lifestyle and San Diego's dynamic urban environment, diverse cuisine, and year-round outdoor activities.

Vancouver vs. San Diego Food Guide

Understanding the local food scene is crucial when moving to a new city, as food is a significant part of local culture and daily life. In this guide, we'll explore how Vancouver, WA and San Diego, CA measure up in terms of their culinary offerings. This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Vancouver & San Diego to help you get acquainted with the food scene in your new home.

VancouverSan Diego
Most iconic local food itemSalmonCalifornia Burrito
Most popular meat dishSturgeonCarne Asada
Most popular street food itemFood CartsFish Tacos
Most popular vegan foodTofu ScrambleAvocado Toast
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
  • The Grant House
  • Beaches Restaurant & Bar
  • Hudson’s Bar and Grill
  • George’s at the Cove
  • Phil’s BBQ
  • Slater’s 50/50
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
Abundance of Food Trucks🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
Foodie Scene🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

In San Diego, the food scene is vibrant and diverse, reflecting its coastal location and cultural mix. The beloved California Burrito, often packed with carne asada and french fries, is a must-try local delicacy found in many taquerias throughout the city, especially in neighborhoods like North Park and Ocean Beach. Fish tacos, another San Diego staple, embody the fresh, seafood-centric fare prevalent along the coastline. San Diego’s commitment to health and fitness is mirrored in its food offerings, with an abundance of vegan options and health-conscious eateries. Highlights include Avocado Toast, widely available at cafes and brunch spots, and the innovative vegan dishes found in the eclectic Hillcrest neighborhood. The city’s food truck scene and iconic restaurants like George's at the Cove in La Jolla, offer diverse culinary experiences that are integral to San Diego’s laid-back, yet sophisticated lifestyle.

Vancouver vs. San Diego Restaurant Comparison

Food is a crucial part of making anywhere feel like home. This restaurant comparison between Vancouver and San Diego will help you find new favorite spots, paving the way for an easy transition to your new city. Use this guide to discover equivalents of your cherished Vancouver eateries in the vibrant culinary scene of San Diego.

VancouverSan DiegoWhat You'll Love
The Smokin OakPhil's BBQBoth are known for their exceptional smoked meats and lively atmospheres.
Beaches Restaurant & BarCoasterraOffers stunning waterfront dining with a diverse menu, similar to Beaches' approach.
Tommy O's Pacific Rim BistroIsland PrimeBoth establishments offer a fusion of flavors with a focus on Pacific Rim cuisines.
La BottegaBencotto Italian KitchenPraised for authentic Italian dishes and a warm, inviting ambiance just like La Bottega.
Dulin's CafeCafe 21 GaslampGreat for a cozy breakfast or brunch with a farm-to-table approach, akin to Dulin's.
Farrar's BistroUrban SolaceBoth boast a comforting, casual dining experience with a focus on New American cuisine.
Thai Orchid RestaurantSupannee House of ThaiKnown for their authentic Thai food and the use of fresh, local ingredients, similar to Thai Orchid.
Say Ciao! Creative CateringThe French GourmetOffers a variety of catering services with a focus on quality and creativity, much like Say Ciao!.
Joe's Crab ShackPoint Loma SeafoodsBoth serve up fresh seafood in a casual, fun setting ideal for family dining.
The Grant HouseThe Prado at Balboa ParkHistoric settings paired with a modern twist on classic dishes, offering a unique dining experience.

For seafood enthusiasts, the transition from Joe's Crab Shack in Vancouver to Point Loma Seafoods in San Diego will be seamless, with both places offering a broad selection of freshly caught seafood in a delightful, laid-back atmosphere. Meanwhile, lovers of Pacific Rim flavors will appreciate the similarity between Tommy O's Pacific Rim Bistro and Island Prime, where innovative dishes bring the essence of the ocean to your plate. Those with a penchant for cozy and flavorful brunch spots will find comfort at Cafe 21 Gaslamp, reminiscent of Dulin's Cafe's beloved breakfasts, but with San Diego's unique flair. Embracing these culinary gems will help make San Diego feel just like home.

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Ready to start your move?

Vancouver vs. San Diego Real Estate & Living Facts

Real estate greatly influences the moving process, making it vital to understand how Vancouver, WA and San Diego, CA compare in terms of housing. This comparison sheds light on costs, architectural styles, walkability , and more, helping you make an informed decision.

ComparisonVancouverSan Diego
Typical Architecture StyleRanch, CraftsmanSpanish Revival, Modern
Walkability 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listingSpacious yards, family neighborhoodsBeach access, urban amenities

When comparing housing between Vancouver, WA and San Diego, CA, key differences emerge, particularly in cost and lifestyle. San Diego's higher median home prices and rents reflect its desirable coastal location and vibrant urban lifestyle, rated a 9 out of 10 for urban living. This contrasts with Vancouver's more subdued urban experience, yet both cities offer unique architectural styles; Vancouver with its Ranch and Craftsman homes versus San Diego's Spanish Revival and Modern influences. Moreover, San Diego's listings often highlight beach access and urban amenities, a testament to its dynamic environment, while Vancouver leans towards family-friendly features like spacious yards. These distinctions underscore the importance of aligning your housing preferences with your chosen city's characteristics.

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.

Vancouver vs. San Diego Weather Considerations

Understanding the climatic differences between your current location and future home is crucial when relocating. This guide aims to compare Vancouver, WA's weather with San Diego, CA's , providing insights on what to expect. From sunshine days to annual rainfall, these differences are pivotal for your adaptation.

Summer icon
79/58

Vancouver, WA

77/64

San Diego, CA

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
47/36

Vancouver, WA

66/50

San Diego, CA

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
41.5

Vancouver, WA

10.34

San Diego, CA

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
4.3

Vancouver, WA

0

San Diego, CA

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

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

When moving from Vancouver to San Diego, you'll notice significant differences in weather that will impact daily life and seasonal activities. San Diego enjoys more sunshine days annually, providing ample opportunity to explore outdoor activities year-round. The mild winters and warmer overall climate in San Diego are a stark contrast to Vancouver's cooler and wetter conditions. Additionally, while both locations share risks of earthquakes, San Diego also faces wildfire risks. Adaptation to the drier climate and higher UV index in San Diego might require changes in your skin care and hydration habits.

Ready to start your move?

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

Moving from one city to another can dramatically affect your finances. Understanding the differences in cost of living and economic environments between Vancouver, WA, and San Diego, CA, is crucial for a smooth transition. This comparison aims to provide you with a clear financial perspective as you plan your move.

ComparisonVancouverSan Diego
Avg. Household Income$69,993$93,042
Cost of Living Index94.8132.3
State Income Tax0up to 13.3
Avg. Property Tax1.030.76
Avg. Sales Tax8.47.75
Top 3 IndustriesHealthcare, Manufacturing, TechMilitary, International Trade, Research
AffluenceModerateHigh
PovertyModerateLow
HomelessnessHighVery High

Moving to San Diego from Vancouver may result in a higher cost of living, noticeably through housing and daily expenses, reflected in San Diego's Cost of Living Index of 160.1 compared to Vancouver's 110.7. However, San Diego tends to have higher average household incomes. The absence of state income tax in Washington can be a significant financial advantage for residents of Vancouver. Contrarily, California's higher state income tax rates must be considered when moving to San Diego. Nonetheless, the thriving industries and economic opportunities in San Diego, particularly in military, trade, and research, offer potential for financial growth and stability.

Vancouver vs. San Diego Political & Religious Comparison

This quick guide aims to give you a snapshot of the differences and similarities you'll encounter in the political and religious landscapes when moving from Vancouver, WA to San Diego, CA . By understanding these aspects, you can better prepare for the community dynamics in your new home.

VancouverSan Diego
Political Make-upLeans DemocraticStrongly Democratic
Local PoliticsProgressive on environmental issuesProgressive with a strong focus on environmental sustainability and social justice
ReligionMixed, with notable Christian and non-religious communitiesVaried, with a significant portion identifying as non-religious, alongside established Christian, Jewish, and Muslim communities

While both cities lean Democratic, San Diego exhibits a stronger inclination towards Democratic values, embracing progressive initiatives, especially in areas of environmental sustainability and social justice. This is reflected not just in politics but also in local activism and community efforts. Moreover, Vancouver and San Diego both host diverse religious communities. However, San Diego stands out for its broad spectrum of faith-based communities, including significant Jewish and Muslim populations alongside the predominant Christian and non-religious groups. This diversity offers a vibrant cultural tapestry, with numerous opportunities for you to engage with and learn from different traditions and beliefs.

Vancouver vs. San Diego Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

In this section, we aim to help you better understand what the daily commute and traffic is like by comparing Vancouver, WA and San Diego, CA. Getting to know the differences in driving and transiting between these cities will prepare you for your move.

ComparisonVancouverSan Diego
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)2526
Traffic Congestion 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦
Availability of Public Transit 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇
Can you get by without car?ChallengingSomewhat possible

While the average commute time in Vancouver and San Diego is similar, traffic congestion is slightly more pronounced in San Diego, likely due to its larger population and tourist influx. Public transportation is more readily available in San Diego, offering services like the San Diego Metropolitan Transit System, making it somewhat more feasible to get by without a car compared to Vancouver. However, in both cities, having a vehicle can greatly enhance your mobility and the ability to explore. This comparison shows that while there are differences, both cities present unique challenges and opportunities when it comes to transportation.

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