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San Diego to Los Angeles, CA Movers (NEW 2026 Costs)

Easily compare and book your next move with moveBuddha
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  • The cost to move 120 miles from San Diego to Los Angeles is between $1,294 and $3,892. A smaller move will cost around $154.
  • The cost to move from San Diego to Los Angeles with professional movers will cost between $1,294 and $3,892.*These numbers are based on a 2–3 bedroom home and one–two day delivery time. Your total cost and delivery time will vary based on your home size, the distance, and the time of year.
  • Our top-recommended mover for relocating from San Diego to Los Angeles is Safeway Moving.
moveBuddha logo iconrating star star star star star 4.9 / 5
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  • Best overall value
  • Veteran owned
  • Portion to charity
moveBuddha logo iconrating star star star star star 4.9 / 5
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  • Certified crews
  • Flat-rate pricing
  • Family-owned
moveBuddha logo iconrating star star star star star 4.2 / 5
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  • Specialty packing services
  • White-glove reputation
  • 80+ years' experience

Best movers from San Diego to Los Angeles

Best overall value
Safeway Moving Logo Safeway Moving
checkmark Best overall value
checkmark Veteran owned
checkmark Portion to charity
4.9
  • checkmarkBest overall value
  • checkmarkVeteran owned
  • checkmarkPortion to charity
American Van Lines Logo American Van Lines
checkmark Certified crews
checkmark Flat-rate pricing
checkmark Family-owned
4.9
  • checkmarkCertified crews
  • checkmarkFlat-rate pricing
  • checkmarkFamily-owned
North American Van Lines Logo North American Van Lines
checkmark 1,800 trucks
checkmark Storage available
checkmark Customized moving plans
4.8
  • checkmark1,800 trucks
  • checkmarkStorage available
  • checkmarkCustomized moving plans
Allied Van Lines Logo Allied Van Lines
checkmark Specialty packing services
checkmark White-glove reputation
checkmark 80+ years' experience
4.2
  • checkmarkSpecialty packing services
  • checkmarkWhite-glove reputation
  • checkmark80+ years' experience
Mayzlin Relocation Logo Mayzlin Relocation
checkmark Family owned
checkmark East coast focus
checkmark Affordable pricing
4.8
  • checkmarkFamily owned
  • checkmarkEast coast focus
  • checkmarkAffordable pricing
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Professional
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Rental truck
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Labor-only
Safeway Moving
checkmark Best overall value
checkmark Veteran owned
checkmark Portion to charity
American Van Lines
checkmark Certified crews
checkmark Flat-rate pricing
checkmark Family-owned
North American Van Lines
checkmark 1,800 trucks
checkmark Storage available
checkmark Customized moving plans
Allied Van Lines
checkmark Specialty packing services
checkmark White-glove reputation
checkmark 80+ years' experience
Mayzlin Relocation
checkmark Family owned
checkmark East coast focus
checkmark Affordable pricing

Estimated cost to move from San Diego to Los Angeles

These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 120-mile move from San Diego to Los Angeles, CA, using pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Mar 16, 2026. Every month, moveBuddha refreshes a nationwide set of thousands of verified moving price points to capture seasonal swings and market shifts. Your actual cost can change based on move size, extra services, parking/access hurdles, fuel prices, and timing. To get the most accurate figure, compare quotes from multiple movers.
Studio Icon

Studio / 1 bedroom

  • Moving Company $687 - $3,119
  • Moving Container $808 - $1,361
  • Rental Truck $143 - $230
Two Three Bed Icon

2-3 bedrooms

  • Moving Company $1,294 - $3,892
  • Moving Container $997 - $1,833
  • Rental Truck $154 - $264
Four Bed Icon

4+ bedrooms

  • Moving Company $1,804 - $4,812
  • Moving Container $1,291 - $2,171
  • Rental Truck $185 - $308
Recent Moving Price Estimates
The following are real, anonymized quotes requested by moveBuddha readers in the past 48 hours. Prices change with dates and availability; use these as a ballpark, not a guarantee.
BLVD Moving
Chula Vista, CA Irwindale, CA
Icon of a house 2 Bedrooms
Icon of a calendar Feb 15, 2026
Joyce Van Lines
Santee, CA Monrovia, CA
Icon of a house 4 Bedrooms
Icon of a calendar Feb 11, 2026
North American Van Lines
Hillcrest, CA Pasadena, CA
Icon of a house 2 Bedrooms
Icon of a calendar Feb 03, 2026
American Van Lines
El Cajon, CA South San Jose Hills, CA
Icon of a house 5+ Bedrooms
Icon of a calendar Jan 17, 2026
Mayzlin Relocation
Winter Gardens, CA Compton, CA
Icon of a house 2 Bedrooms
Icon of a calendar Jan 17, 2026
Mayflower Transit
Bonita, CA Vincent, CA
Icon of a house 2 Bedrooms
Icon of a calendar Jan 12, 2026
PODS
La Mesa, CA Altadena, CA
Icon of a house 1 Bedroom (small)
Icon of a calendar Dec 29, 2025
United Van Lines
Imperial Beach, CA West Hollywood, CA
Icon of a house 2 Bedrooms
Icon of a calendar Dec 18, 2025
Safeway Moving
Poway, CA West Covina, CA
Icon of a house 4 Bedrooms
Icon of a calendar Dec 07, 2025
Allied Van Lines
National City, CA Willowbrook, CA
Icon of a house 1 Bedroom (small)
Icon of a calendar Dec 03, 2025

Moving the opposite route? We got you covered with our moving from Los Angeles to San Diego guide.

Local moving companies in San Diego

Picking one of the 372 local moving companies in California for your San Diego to Los Angeles relocation takes the hassle out of your move. Their local expertise means you get tailored service, plus they handle all the packing, loading, and transport, making your move quicker and way less stressful.

  1. Dominant Moving Company: 4.52 out of 5 stars
  2. Grizzly Moving: 4.56 out of 5 stars
  3. Republic Moving & Storage: 4.62 out of 5 stars
  4. Stella Moving & Delivery: 4.44 out of 5 stars
  5. We Like To Move It Moving: 4.48 out of 5 stars
82% of all reviews were positive
16% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Dominant Moving Company stands out in San Diego's moving industry for fast, careful, and professional crews. Of the 360 feedback entries reviewed, more than 82% came from highly satisfied customers praising efficient service, polite staff, and impressive price-to-quality value. Clients emphasize how movers protect belongings, communicate well, and finish jobs on schedule. Affordable rates and careful handling of items set Dominant apart from many competitors. Some negative input highlights recurring issues: damage to furniture or property, slow or late arrivals, and unsatisfactory responses to complaints. A few clients report unresolved claims for damage or difficulty contacting management after a problem. While delays and breakage occasionally impact experiences, most people say their moves were smooth and cost-effective—attributes that help Dominant edge out local rivals in reliability and value. The company’s reputation is built on speed, care, and affordability, but future customers should clarify damage procedures and timing expectations before booking.
Get a Quote (855) 699-2299

Company Info

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State license #: 191165

Years in Business: 11

DOT #: 2718191

Alternate Names: Velorom LLC

Services Offered

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  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Pool Tables
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Safes
  • Pay by money order
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required
93% of all reviews were positive
7% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Customer input for Grizzly Moving points to standout performance: more than 92% of the 434 reviews highlight prompt, efficient, and careful service. Clients consistently mention that the team handles furniture cautiously and communicates well from booking to delivery. Movers show up on time, treat property with respect, and complete jobs swiftly, which sets Grizzly apart from standard moving companies. The staff is repeatedly described as professional, polite, and considerate, making stressful relocations easier for families, businesses, and individuals alike. On the downside, around 7% of reviewers cite real concerns, especially about damage to belongings, unexpected final costs, and, less frequently, delays or missed arrival windows. While complaints are few compared to the high volume of positive feedback, the nature of issues—such as significant item damage or underestimated costs—are important for potential customers to consider before booking. Compared to competitors, Grizzly’s consistent execution, fair communication, and efficient process earn high marks, though diligence is still advisable to clarify insurance, costs, and special handling when booking. With such a dominant trend of satisfied feedback, Grizzly ranks as a top contender, though a minority of experiences remind customers to confirm all details upfront.
Get a Quote (844) 474-9959

Company Info

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State license #: 0191376

Years in Business: 9

DOT #: 2642040

Alternate Names: Grizzly Movers LLC

Services Offered

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  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Crane vans
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Safes
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required
75% of all reviews were positive
22% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Customers say Republic Moving & Storage stands out for speed, professionalism, and careful handling of belongings. Crews consistently arrive punctually, work efficiently, and communicate clearly, making moving days less stressful for families and individuals. Many highlight how staff go above and beyond to protect delicate items and accommodate client needs. Affordable rates and accurate pricing set the company apart from other movers, as does their polite and knowledgeable team. Issues arise mainly with damage to items during transit, late arrivals, and breakdowns in communication, especially during long-distance or complex moves. While most feedback is positive, a sizable portion of input points to frustration with handling claims, delays, and some property loss. Republic's track record for efficient, courteous service positions them above many competitors, but persistent complaints about item damage and occasional administrative issues indicate room for improvement and more reliable service for every customer. A total of 501 reviews were analyzed, with about 75% giving positive input.
Get a Quote (619) 639-8352

Company Info

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State license #: 0190491

Years in Business: 31

DOT #: 3369820

Alternate Names: Lovejoy's Family Moving , Republic Relocation Services

Services Offered

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  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Grandfather clocks
  • Crating
  • Crane vans
  • Shipment tracking
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Safes
  • Pay by money order
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required
  • DOD certified
94% of all reviews were positive
5% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Customer feedback for Stella Moving & Delivery shows a standout excellence in moving services. Out of 331 reviews analyzed, 94% are positive, highlighting reliable efficiency, courteous and skilled crews, and careful handling of customer belongings. Many reviewers praise their rapid pace, clear communication, and impressive professionalism compared to other moving companies. Clients repeatedly cite stress-free experiences, transparent pricing, and well-organized teams as key benefits. On the flip side, a small portion of reviewers report concerns about damage to belongings, unexpected charges, and difficulties reaching the company after issues arise. Some mention poor problem resolution by management, particularly regarding claims and complaints. While negative input does exist, it’s significantly outweighed by positive experiences. Compared to most moving services, Stella maintains a much higher percentage of five-star ratings and customer satisfaction, with efficiency and care as their calling card.
Get a Quote (619) 393-6426

Company Info

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State license #: 0191958

Years in Business: 6

DOT #: 3299407

Alternate Names: Stella Moving & Delivery , The Remarkable Movers

Services Offered

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  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Grandfather clocks
  • Crating
  • Crane vans
  • Shipment tracking
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Safes
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required
  • DOD certified
94% of all reviews were positive
6% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Moving made nearly effortless—We Like To Move It Moving receives consistently impressive customer feedback. Out of 379 reviews analyzed, 94% describe positive experiences citing efficient service, attention to detail with belongings, and truly professional movers. Many customers mention a quick, organized moving process and commend the team’s friendly, communicative attitude. Movers arrive promptly, handle items with care, and communicate clearly throughout, making stressful moves much easier. Transparent pricing and easy booking also earn high praise. While negative feedback is rare, some customers saw final costs higher than expected, and a few reported damage to belongings or delays. Compared to typical moving companies, We Like To Move It Moving reliably delivers fast, careful, and personable service. High satisfaction rates and strong recommendations set them apart as a leader in the San Diego area.
Get a Quote (619) 483-1505

Company Info

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State license #: 0191446

Years in Business: 9

DOT #: 2843171

Services Offered

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  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Safes
  • Pay by credit card

Cost to move from San Diego to Los Angeles

Check the table below for average moving cost estimates from San Diego to Los Angeles. We’ve organized prices by home size and service type to make comparison simple.

Move size Moving company Moving container Rental
truck
Studio / 1 bedroom $639 - $2,540 $545 - $1,262 $151 - $223
2 - 3 bedrooms $1,294 - $3,892 $997 - $1,833 $154 - $264
4+ bedrooms $1,804 - $4,812 $1,291 - $2,171 $185 - $308
*Approximate price ranges for a 120-mile relocation from San Diego to Los Angeles are based on moveBuddha data current as of Mar 16, 2026. moveBuddha aggregates thousands of verified rates from moving companies across the U.S. and refreshes the figures monthly to capture seasonal shifts and market dynamics. Final costs depend on load size, add-on services, access or parking constraints, fuel rates, and timing. We recommend gathering estimates from several movers for accuracy.

Cost to hire movers from San Diego to Los Angeles

A studio or one-bedroom relocation from San Diego to Los Angeles will usually cost $639– $2,540. For a two- to three-bedroom move from San Diego to Los Angeles, plan on $1,294–$3,892. Large moves from San Diego to Los Angeles often land between $1,804 and $4,812.

Cost of moving containers from San Diego to Los Angeles

If you’re using moving containers from San Diego to Los Angeles, a small move typically costs $545 to $1,262. Two- to three-bedroom moves commonly range from $997 to $1,833. For four bedrooms or more, expect $1,291 to $2,171. Learn more about PODS cost.

Check out the most affordable moving container companies to help with your move in California.

Cost of renting a moving truck from San Diego to Los Angeles

Choosing a moving rental truck from San Diego to Los Angeles is typically the budget-friendly option, but you’re on the hook for all the driving and labor.

Moving a studio or one-bedroom apartment in a rental truck will cost around $151 to $223. A two to three-bedroom move will cost $154 to $264, and moving a home with four or more bedrooms from San Diego to Los Angeles costs around $185 to $308.

These quotes include the estimated fuel cost.

Considerations when moving from San Diego to Los Angeles

Cost of living: San Diego vs. Los Angeles

When comparing the cost of living between San Diego and Los Angeles, you need to look beyond housing prices. This section breaks down some key financial factors, including rent, home values, income, day-to-day expenses, and employment rates, to help you understand how life in Los Angeles stacks up against San Diego.

Check out how the two cities compare so you know what to expect before you relocate:

San Diego Los Angeles
Average rent cost $2,881 $2,960
Average home cost $1,003,444 $2,368,088
Average income (per capita) $72,963 $74,993
Cost of living (single person) $3,346 $5,833
Cost of living (family of 4) $7,719 $12,720
Unemployment rate 6.6% 10.6%
Average Sales Tax 7.75% 9.5%
  • Rent prices in Los Angeles are about the same as in San Diego, so your housing budget should stay steady and make your move easier on your wallet.
  • Home prices in Los Angeles are 136% higher than in San Diego, which could make buying a home more challenging. It might require a larger upfront investment and could increase your monthly mortgage payments.
  • You’ll find that income levels in San Diego and Los Angeles are pretty similar, so you can count on consistent earning potential, making it easier to manage your finances.
  • Living expenses for one person in Los Angeles are 74% higher than in San Diego, so you'll probably need to tweak your budget to cover the extra expenses.
  • Living costs here run about 65% higher than in San Diego. Essentials like housing, childcare, and healthcare all come with a steeper price tag, making Los Angeles one of the more expensive cities for families.
  • Unemployment in Los Angeles is 61% higher than in San Diego. Finding a good, stable job might be more challenging if you’re moving without having lined up a job.
  • Sales taxes run 23% higher in Los Angeles than in San Diego, so you should plan on higher costs for regular taxable purchases.

To put this in perspective, you would need around $5,220 in Los Angeles to maintain the same standard of life that you could have with $3,000 in San Diego.

How life is different in San Diego vs. Los Angeles

Before you make a move, it’s important to see how life stacks up in Los Angeles vs. San Diego. Everything from weather and the population to cost of living, politics, and safety can shape your day-to-day experience. Check out this side-by-side comparison to decide which city suits your lifestyle and priorities best.

San Diego Los Angeles
Population 1,386,932 3,820,914
Political leaning Democratic 60-37 Democratic 64-31
Summer high 79ºF 84ºF
Winter low 46ºF 46ºF
Annual rain 12" 16"
Annual snow 0" 0"
Crime index 39.83 53.81
  • Los Angeles is around 175% bigger than San Diego. A move to a larger city brings more people, fresh opportunities, and richer cultural experiences, but also comes with higher living costs and a busier lifestyle. Whether that sounds thrilling or daunting really depends on what you’re looking for in your next home.
  • In the last presidential election, both San Diego and Los Angeles voted Democratic.
  • Both Los Angeles and San Diego average summer highs close to 84°F. That means your daily rhythm in summer should feel familiar after the move.
  • During the coldest part of the year, both San Diego and Los Angeles experience similar winter lows, with San Diego reaching 46°F and Los Angeles getting down to 46°F.
  • Both San Diego and Los Angeles see about the same yearly rainfall—San Diego averages 12 inches, while Los Angeles gets 16 inches each year.
  • Both San Diego and Los Angeles receive virtually no snowfall each year, so you won’t have to plan for winter weather in either city.
  • Los Angeles has a higher crime rate than San Diego, with a crime index of 53.81 vs 39.83.

Things to do in Los Angeles

Craving adventure, unique culture, or live sports? San Diego has you covered.

Museums in Los Angeles

  • The Getty Center
  • Griffith Observatory
  • Petersen Automotive Museum
  • Battleship USS Iowa Museum
  • The Broad

Parks in Los Angeles

  • Griffith Park
  • Runyon Canyon Park
  • Lake Hollywood Park
  • Echo Park
  • Venice Skatepark

Sports teams in Los Angeles

  • Los Angeles Clippers (NBA)
  • Los Angeles Dodgers (MLB)
  • Los Angeles FC (MLS)
  • Los Angeles Kings (NHL)
  • Los Angeles Lakers (NBA)

Universities in Los Angeles

  • California State University, Los Angeles
  • California State University, Northridge
  • University of California, Los Angeles
  • American Film Institute Conservatory
  • Alliant International University

FAQ

How much does it cost to hire a professional moving company from San Diego to Los Angeles?

If you’re hiring a professional moving company to get your stuff from San Diego to Los Angeles, expect to pay between $639 and $2,540 to move just a few items or a small bedroom. For a two- or three-bedroom place, prices usually run between $1,294 and $3,892. Moving a home with four or more bedrooms? You’re looking at anywhere from $1,804 up to $4,812 for the trip.

How much are moving container companies from San Diego to Los Angeles?

If you’re moving from San Diego to Los Angeles and thinking about using moving containers, here’s what you can expect to pay: For a studio or one-bedroom, prices usually start around $545 and go up to $1,262. If you have a two- or three-bedroom home, costs typically fall between $997 and $1,833. For larger moves—think four or five bedrooms—expect to spend somewhere between $1,291 and $2,171.

How much is a moving truck from San Diego to Los Angeles?

Renting a moving truck is usually the cheapest option, but it requires you to do all of the driving and labor; these estimates include the estimated fuel cost:

Moving a studio or one-bedroom apartment in a rental truck will cost around $151 to $223. A larger move will cost $154 to $264, and a four-bedroom or larger move from San Diego to Los Angeles costs from $185 to $308.

How far in advance should I book San Diego-to-Los Angeles movers?

For the smoothest experience, try to book your move from San Diego to Los Angeles at least two months before your moving date. Planning a summer move? Aim for at least three months in advance, since that’s the busiest season. Locking in your San Diego-to-Los Angeles movers early not only helps you snag your preferred date, but it can also score you the best prices. Some moving companies even sweeten the deal with early-bird discounts when you book ahead.

What time of year is the cheapest to move to Los Angeles?

To save money on your move to Los Angeles, plan it between early October and late April. Moving outside the busy May-to-September season means less competition and better rates, helping you avoid peak prices and busy schedules.

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