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($1,218) Cost to Move From Columbia, SC to San Diego, CA

Easily compare and book your next move with moveBuddha
Estimated cost & time: Relocating 2,353 miles from Columbia to San Diego typically costs between $1,395 and $7,189. The trip is expected to last from seven–18 days. Costs depend on factors like distance, date, home size, and your choice between DIY or professional services.
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Best movers from Columbia to San Diego

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
4.5
  • 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
4.5
  • 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
4.8
  • checkmarkSpecialty packing services
  • checkmarkWhite-glove reputation
  • checkmark80+ years’ experience
Mayzlin Relocation Logo Mayzlin Relocation
checkmark Family owned
checkmark East coast focus
checkmark Affordable pricing
4.9
  • checkmarkFamily owned
  • checkmarkEast coast focus
  • checkmarkAffordable pricing

Best movers by type

Professional Icon
Professional
Container Icon
Container
Rental Truck Icon
Rental Truck
Freight Icon
Labor Only

Best professional movers from Columbia to San Diego

Opting for a full-service mover can make your interstate move from Columbia to San Diego much easier by letting professionals manage the entire process. This choice allows you to focus on what matters most instead of the logistics of moving.

In Columbia, there are 5 interstate moving companies that can assist you. Discover our top picks that ensure a relaxed and efficient move to San Diego.

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
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
North American Van Lines
checkmark 1,800 trucks
checkmark Storage available
checkmark Customized moving plans

Estimated cost to move from Columbia to San Diego

These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 2,353-mile move from Columbia to San Diego using pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Nov 07, 2025. moveBuddha’s database includes thousands of authenticated prices from movers around the country, refreshed monthly to capture seasonal swings and market movement. Your final quote can change based on volume, extra services, parking or access hurdles, fuel rates, and timing. It’s wise to request quotes from multiple providers to nail down a precise range.
Studio Icon

Studio / 1 bedroom

  • Moving Company $2,215 – $5,146
  • Moving Container $1,743 – $3,431
  • Rental Truck $1,367 – $2,669
Two Three Bed Icon

2-3 bedrooms

  • Moving Company $3,389 – $7,189
  • Moving Container $2,167 – $4,401
  • Rental Truck $1,395 – $3,118
Four Bed Icon

4+ bedrooms

  • Moving Company $6,115 – $10,354
  • Moving Container $3,103 – $6,096
  • Rental Truck $1,780 – $3,712
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.
Colonial Van Lines
Chapin, SC Camp Pendleton South, CA
5+ Bedrooms
Oct 07, 2025
PODS
Little Mountain, SC Del Mar, CA
4 Bedrooms
Oct 04, 2025
Allied Van Lines
Pinewood, SC Imperial Beach, CA
3 Bedrooms
Sep 25, 2025
North American Van Lines
St. Andrews, SC Encinitas, CA
1 Bedroom (small)
Sep 25, 2025
1-800-Pack-Rat
West Columbia, SC Santee, CA
1 Bedroom (small)
Sep 22, 2025
United Van Lines
Prosperity, SC Winter Gardens, CA
1 Bedroom (small)
Sep 07, 2025
Safeway Moving
Gaston, SC Poway, CA
4 Bedrooms
Sep 03, 2025
Mayzlin Relocation
North, SC Rancho San Diego, CA
5+ Bedrooms
Sep 02, 2025
Roadway Moving
Springdale, SC La Mesa, CA
1 Bedroom (large)
Sep 01, 2025
BLVD Moving
Cordova, SC Hillcrest, CA
4 Bedrooms
Aug 20, 2025

Moving the opposite route? We got you covered with our moving from San Diego, CA to Columbia, SC guide.

Top-rated movers to make your Columbia to San Diego move easy

Finding a trusted local moving company in Columbia that offers long-distance services to San Diego can be a challenge. Good news — we’ve done the homework for you. Our team reviewed seven top local movers in Columbia who handle long-distance moves, evaluating them based on pricing, service offerings, and customer satisfaction.

These are the best local movers for your long-distance move from Columbia to San Diego.

  1. Gentlemen Movers Inc.: 4.56 out of 5 stars
  2. TWO MEN AND A TRUCK: 4.42 out of 5 stars
  3. JEGA Movers LLC: 4.42 out of 5 stars
  4. College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving: 4.22 out of 5 stars
  5. All My Sons Moving & Storage: 4.16 out of 5 stars
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
72.0% of all reviews were positive
27.3% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Gentlemen Movers Inc. earns high marks for efficiency and professionalism, standing out with 72% positive feedback from 161 reviews. Customers consistently praise the team’s effective service, politeness, careful handling of belongings, speed, and affordable prices. Many appreciate how the staff alleviates the usual stress of moving. Still, nearly 28% of input highlights problems like damaged items, unexpected extra charges, and hard-to-reach management. Experiences with item protection and clear communication fall short for some, leading to frustration over unaddressed complaints. In comparison with other companies, Gentlemen Movers rates highly for staff professionalism and affordability but lags in reliability when damage claims or billing inaccuracies arise. Most people are happy with the company, but those considering more delicate moves or strict budgets should be attentive to potential risks.
Get a Quote (803) 782-0063

Company Info

State license #: 9756

Years in Business: 21

DOT #: 1442337

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Pool Tables
  • Grandfather clocks
  • Storage
  • Safes
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
86.7% of all reviews were positive
11.7% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Dependable service and professionalism stand out in feedback for TWO MEN AND A TRUCK. After analyzing 256 reviews, a remarkable 86.7% of input praised efficient, careful movers who handle belongings thoughtfully and display a positive attitude. Fast service, courteous staff, and respect for customer property routinely put this company ahead of competitors. Clients often highlighted seamless communication and the crews’ on-time arrival, underscoring their reliability. Negative remarks, making up 11.7% of feedback, centered on property damage, additional unexpected fees, and rare breakdowns in communication. Some reviewers cited items arriving damaged or incomplete responses to damage claims. A very small number (1.6%) posted neutral feedback, usually noting mixed communication or unclear pricing. This company receives more enthusiastic recommendations and repeat business than many moving providers, thanks to organized, efficient service and respectful teams. The rare complaints about broken belongings and disputed charges align with frustrations customers have encountered with other movers, but appear far less often here, helping TWO MEN AND A TRUCK earn trust with those seeking a reliable moving partner.
Get a Quote (803) 310-7445

Company Info

State license #: 9494-C

Years in Business: 31

DOT #: 2527384

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Pianos
  • Storage
  • Safes
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
42.9% of all reviews were positive
57.1% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
JEGA Movers LLC receives enthusiastic praise from customers who appreciate professional staff, careful handling of belongings, transparent pricing, strong communication, and efficient service. Most positive feedback highlights respectful treatment of cherished items and hassle-free booking. Negative input focuses on unprofessional behavior, property damage, and the company not delivering all promised services, like furniture reassembly and reliability. 42.9% of reviews express satisfaction, but more than half of the feedback reveals significant issues, suggesting higher concerns than seen with typical local moving companies. Those considering JEGA Movers should weigh reported customer service quality against consistent complaints about professionalism and property care.
Get a Quote (803) 888-0917

Company Info

State license #: 2021239

Years in Business: 5

DOT #: 3583359

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
93.4% of all reviews were positive
5.8% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Customers rave about the fast, friendly, and careful teams at College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving. Out of 242 pieces of input, about 93% was favorable, showing impressive consistency. Most customer feedback mentions efficiency, helpful movers, respectfulness, and quick job completion—qualities that set College Hunks apart from other moving services. Professionalism and careful handling of items frequently impressed customers, even on large or complicated jobs. Some negative remarks point to damaged possessions, missing items, and bigger bills than expected—issues that matter when choosing a mover. Complaints about estimate accuracy or lost belongings remain far fewer than the positive notes about speed and politeness. Compared to many competitors, College Hunks earns trust for reliability and respectful teams, consistently outperforming others in both speed and care.
Get a Quote (336) 810-1801

Company Info

State license #: 9890

DOT #: 2378173

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
50.0% of all reviews were positive
46.9% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Fast moves and friendly crews shine through the feedback on All My Sons Moving & Storage. Out of 64 reviews, half commend the company’s professional attitude, careful handling of items, efficient process, and supportive movers—qualities that keep their reputation solid against competitors. Many customers highlight swift service and the politeness of staff, with teams regularly described as helpful and highly professional. Yet a significant share (nearly 47%) report major frustrations about final pricing far exceeding initial estimates, damage to items, and unanticipated fees. Customers often mention unexpected charges and slow resolution for reported damages, which leads many to express regret or dissatisfaction. While the company frequently delivers the speed and care people expect from leading movers, the pattern of higher costs and inflexible billing contrasts sharply with the positive feedback. Those considering All My Sons can expect fast, polite service, but should clarify all pricing details up front and remain vigilant about item protection and final billing.
Get a Quote (803) 219-4957

Company Info

State license #: 9873

Years in Business: 26

DOT #: 902281

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Safes
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required

How much does it cost to move from Columbia to San Diego?

In South Carolina, moving services typically cost around $137 per hour. Below are standard prices for hiring a full-service moving company, renting a moving container, or a truck:

Move size Moving company Moving container Rental
truck
Studio / 1 bedroom $1,218 – $4,728 $1,220 – $3,279 $1,302 – $2,441
2 – 3 bedrooms $3,389 – $7,189 $2,167 – $4,401 $1,395 – $3,118
4+ bedrooms $6,115 – $10,354 $3,103 – $6,096 $1,780 – $3,712
*These ranges provide an approximation for a 2,353-mile move from Columbia to San Diego, calculated from moveBuddha’s pricing dataset as of Nov 07, 2025. moveBuddha collects thousands of verified rates from movers nationwide and refreshes the data monthly to reflect seasonal variability and market conditions. Actual charges can vary with shipment size, extra services, parking or access issues, fuel rates, and scheduling. To get a reliable estimate, request quotes from multiple movers.

Cost to hire movers from Columbia to San Diego

If you’re packing up a studio or one-bedroom to move to San Diego from Columbia, you can expect prices to land between $1,218 and $4,728. For a two- or three-bedroom space, your costs will usually range from $3,389 to $7,189 for the trip from Columbia to San Diego. If you’re moving a large four- or five-bedroom home, you’re likely looking at a price tag between $6,115 and $10,354.

Cost of moving containers from Columbia to San Diego

Moving containers from Columbia to San Diego will cost you $1,220 to $3,279 for a small move. For a two- to three-bedroom move, moving containers can cost $2,167 to $4,401. A four-bedroom move or bigger will cost $3,103 to $6,096. Learn more about PODS cost.

Here are the cheapest moving container companies when moving out of South Carolina.

Cost of moving truck rentals from Columbia to San Diego

Renting a moving truck from Columbia to San Diego typically costs the least, but you’ll be responsible for both the heavy lifting and all the driving.

Expect to pay between $1,302 and $2,441 to move a studio or one-bedroom apartment with a rental truck. For a two- or three-bedroom move, prices usually range from $1,395 to $3,118. If you’re relocating a four-bedroom (or larger) home, you’ll likely spend anywhere from $1,780 to $3,712.

These estimates factor in the average cost of fuel.

Key factors that impact the cost of your Columbia to San Diego move

The cost of Columbia movers will depend on:

  • Home size: The number of rooms makes a big difference. Expect around $2,421 for a one-bedroom, or up to $10,466 for a four-bedroom.
  • The time of year you’re moving: Rates climb in summer because of peak season demand in Columbia.
  • DIY vs. professional: Rental trucks can range from $1,302 to $3,521, but require more effort than hiring movers.

What to know before moving from Columbia to San Diego

Expect a bump in monthly expenses after the move – San Diego runs about 71% higher for singles and 81% higher for families than Columbia.

Singles spend around $3,346 in Columbia versus $1,956 in Columbia; families pay $7,719 compared with $4,274.

Dig into the side-by-side details here:

Columbia San Diego
Average 1 BR rent $1,300 $2,704
Average 3 BR rent $2,220 $4,914
Average home value $220,612 $1,003,444
Average income (per capita) $64,683 $72,963
Cost of living (single) $1,956 $3,346
Cost of living (family of four) $4,274 $7,719
Unemployment rate 5.2% 6.6%
Sales tax 8.0% 7.75%
State income tax 7.0% 13.3%
  • Planning a move to San Diego? Keep in mind that rent could be approximately 99% higher than in Columbia, so be sure to adjust your monthly expenses accordingly.
  • Anticipate a larger mortgage expense since home prices in San Diego are about 355% higher than those in Columbia.
  • Exciting update: you’ll see an average income that’s about 13% higher in San Diego compared to Columbia, which might allow for more savings or investments.
  • Prepare your budget for higher expenses in San Diego, as living costs for a single person are 71% higher than in Columbia. This includes essential costs such as utilities, groceries, clothing, and commuting.
  • If you’re moving your family to San Diego, keep in mind that your living expenses could increase. The cost of living for a family in San Diego is 81% higher than in Columbia.
  • San Diego shows an unemployment rate that exceeds Columbia by around 27%. This increase suggests a broader candidate selection for employers, possibly making the job market more competitive for applicants.
  • Sales taxes hold steady between San Diego and Columbia (within a 5% margin), alleviating the need for major budget adjustments.
  • Income taxes in California are 90% above those in South Carolina. Consequently, more of your income may be allocated to tax payments, which could diminish your overall earnings.

See how the cost of everyday necessities and regular monthly payments differs between Columbia and San Diego:

Living Expense Columbia San Diego
Basic utilities $148.09 $277.55
Cell phone plan $54.77 $66.79
Dozen eggs $3.46 $5.26
Loaf of bread $2.65 $4.50
Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) $16.00 $21.00
Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) $60.00 $100.00
Gym membership $40.00 $65.68
  • Basic utilities cost less in Columbia than in San Diego, helping trim your monthly bills.
  • Cell phone plans are cheaper in Columbia than in San Diego.
  • Eggs are less expensive in Columbia than in San Diego.
  • Bread costs less in Columbia than in San Diego.
  • A quick meal is cheaper in Columbia than in San Diego.
  • A mid-range dinner for two costs less in Columbia than in San Diego.
  • Gym memberships are more affordable in Columbia than in San Diego.

How life is different in Columbia vs. San Diego

Columbia San Diego
Population 136,632 1,386,932
Transportation score 5 6
Walkability score 35 53
Bike friendliness score 35 43
Crime index 3.0 39.83
Safety index 48.39 60.17
Air quality Good Moderate
  • San Diego’s population is about 915% greater than Columbia.
  • San Diego’s public transportation score of 6 out of 10 is higher than Columbia’s score of 5.
  • San Diego is more walkable than Columbia with a score of 53 out of 100 vs Columbia’s 35 out of 100.
  • With a score of 43 out of 100, San Diego is more bike-friendly than Columbia, which has a score of 35 out of 100. The higher a city’s score, the more suited it is to safely accommodating cyclists.
  • San Diego’s crime rate is higher than Columbia with a score of 39.83 compared to Columbia’s 3.0. This means that San Diego neighborhoods are safer than 39.83% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Columbia neighborhoods are safer than 3.0%.
  • San Diego is considered to be safer than Columbia with a safety index of 60.17 vs Columbia’s 48.39.
  • Air quality in San Diego is Moderate, and in Columbia it’s Good.

Other things to consider for your Columbia to San Diego move

  • HOA rules: Check ahead with any neighborhood or community rules on moving to ensure a smooth move.
  • Elevator reservation: If your building has an elevator, make sure to find out how to reserve it ahead of your move.
  • Truck parking permits: Make sure to look into local parking regulations—some areas require permits for large moving trucks.
  • State licensing: When contacting a local moving company for an estimate in California, make sure each has a “T Number” issued by the California Public Utilities Commission (CAPUC). Moving companies with valid T Numbers have met state requirements for insurance, safety, and financial stability and have passed criminal clearance checks conducted by the California Department of Justice. Before booking, ensure the moving company is officially licensed to handle your move.
  • State regulator: California’s public utilities commission provides official mover license verification.
  • Moving Permits: California does not require any moving permits, but it is helpful to check local parking restrictions before moving into the state. We recommend submitting your change of address form with USPS at least a week prior to your move.
  • Change of address: We suggest filing your USPS change of address form at least one week before your move. You’ll be able to set your official move date, helping ensure your mail is forwarded correctly to San Diego. Start the process here.
  • Moving company insurance: The amount and type of insurance movers must have depends on state regulations. Opt for Released Value Protection – a cost-free choice provided by movers with minimal coverage. The liability is capped at 60 cents per pound per article. For instance, if a 50-inch TV weighing 25 pounds is lost or damaged, your reimbursement is only $15 (60 cents x 25 pounds). To ensure comprehensive coverage for your items’ full value, consult with your chosen moving company or consider third-party insurance options.
  • Moving checklist: Our moving checklist gives you the peace of mind that comes with being fully prepared.

Where to live in San Diego

Planning your move to America’s Finest City? Take a look at our picks for the best neighborhoods to call home in San Diego.

Best neighborhoods for singles

  • Gaslamp Quarter
  • Hillcrest
  • North Park
  • Ocean Beach
  • Pacific Beach

Best neighborhoods for families

  • Carmel Valley
  • Del Mar Heights
  • Loma Portal
  • Rancho Bernardo
  • Rancho Penasquitos

Things to do in San Diego

After settling into your new California home, you’ll want to branch out and explore your new city. Luckily, San Diego has lots to offer, no matter what you’re interested in:

  • Arts and culture: San Diego features a variety of museums and cultural arts centers, including the USS Midway Museum, Birch Aquarium at Scripps, Maritime Museum of San Diego, and San Diego Air & Space Museum.
  • Outdoor recreation: The city’s La Jolla Cove, Balboa Park, La Jolla Shores Park, and Sunset Cliffs Natural Park — along with other locations — ideal for trails, cycling, or enjoying the fresh air.
  • Sports: Nothing beats the thrill of cheering on the home team at an San Diego Padres (MLB)San Diego Gulls (AHL)San Diego Loyal SC (USL Championship) game.

FAQ

When is the best time to move from Columbia to San Diego?

Planning your move from Columbia to San Diego? Aim for spring or fall when the weather is pleasant and demand is lower, helping you avoid peak-season rates in Columbia.

When is the cheapest time to move from Columbia to San Diego?

Because most people are moving from Columbia to San Diego in the spring or fall, you can often catch discounts by moving in the winter. Read our guide on moving discounts to learn more.

How long does a move from Columbia to San Diego take?

The 2,353-mile journey from Columbia, SC to San Diego, , typically takes seven to 18 days. Some movers in Columbia offer expedited services if you’re on a tight schedule, and if you need extra time, be sure to ask about storage options in San Diego.

Are piano and antique moving services available in Columbia?

Not all movers have the resources to handle high-value or delicate items. In Columbia, 5 movers can manage piano relocations. 2 movers are equipped for antique transport. By comparison, South Carolina has 33 piano movers and 18 antique movers, while nationwide there are 2,303 and 1,466 respectively.

Always confirm the mover’s experience and packing methods for fragile or specialty items before booking.

Helpful moving resources

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