($1,276) Cost to Move From Houston, TX to San Diego, CA

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Cost to hire movers from Houston to San Diego

If you’re moving a studio or one-bedroom home from Houston to San Diego, you can expect to spend between $1,276 and $4,817. For a two- or three-bedroom place, prices usually range from $2,855 to $6,513 on the same route. Got a larger household? Moving a four- or five-bedroom home from Houston to San Diego typically runs between $5,080 and $8,847.

Cost of moving containers from Houston to San Diego

When moving from Houston to San Diego, for a small load, you’ll likely pay between $998 and $2,477. If you have a two- or three-bedroom home, costs usually range from $1,732 to $3,543. Got a big family or a four-plus bedroom house? Expect prices ranging anywhere from $2,378 up to $4,818. For detailed pricing info, take a look at our complete PODS cost guide.

Check out the most affordable moving container companies to help with your move from Texas.

Cost of moving truck rentals from Houston to San Diego

Renting a moving truck in Houston is usually your cheapest option to get to San Diego. Just keep in mind that you’ll handle all the lifting, packing, and driving yourself.

If you’re moving out of a studio or one-bedroom and renting a truck, plan to spend between $919 and $1,658. For two- or three-bedroom moves, prices typically land between $899 and $1,972. Dealing with a four-bedroom-plus home? Expect rental truck costs to be somewhere between $1,214 and $2,458.

These cost ranges already include estimated fuel costs.

• As you consider relocating to San Diego, note that rent can be roughly 86% more expensive than it is in Houston; adjust your financial plans to accommodate this change.
• Be sure to budget for a higher monthly mortgage payment, as home prices are about 280% higher in San Diego than in Houston.
• The average income in San Diego and Houston is quite similar, within about 5%, so your finances should remain fairly stable.
• Plan for higher expenses in San Diego, since the cost of living for a single person is 21% more than in Houston. This encompasses usual costs like utilities, groceries, apparel, and transit.
• If your journey leads to San Diego, be prepared for higher living expenditures. The cost of living for a family in San Diego is 8% more than it is in Houston.
• The unemployment rate in San Diego is 61% higher compared to Houston, translating to more job seekers for available positions, which might elevate competition.
• Sales taxes are 6% lower in San Diego than in Houston. If you have a larger family or higher consumption habits, the lower sales tax in San Diego can reduce your overall living expenses.
• California has a state income tax, while Texas does not. That means you’ll owe more in taxes after your move, reducing your take-home pay compared to what you’re used to.

• San Diego’s population is about 40% less than Houston.
• San Diego’s public transportation score of 6 out of 10 is higher than Houston’s score of 5.
• San Diego is more walkable than Houston with a score of 53 out of 100 vs Houston’s 47 out of 100.
• San Diego has a bike-friendliness score of 43 out of 100, which means it isn’t as accessible or safe for cyclists as Houston, which has a score of 49.
• San Diego’s crime rate is lower than Houston with a score of 39.83 compared to Houston’s 63.5. This means that San Diego neighborhoods are safer than 39.83% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Houston neighborhoods are safer than 63.5%.
• San Diego is considered to be safer than Houston with a safety index of 60.17 vs Houston’s 36.5.
• Air quality in San Diego is Moderate, and in Houston it’s Good.

• HOA rules: It’s a good idea to look into your HOA or community regulations before moving day arrives.
• Elevator reservation: Reserve elevator access early if your building requires it, to avoid delays on moving day.
• Truck parking permits: Some cities require parking permits for large vehicles and moving trucks. Find out if you need any parking permits ahead of time.
• 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. Double-check that the moving company is properly licensed before you hire them.
• State regulator: You can verify a California moving company’s license by visiting the state’s public utilities commission.
• Moving Permits: While California doesn’t mandate moving permits, checking local parking guidelines before your move-in day is still a good idea.
• Change of address: File your USPS change of address about a week before moving so mail reaches San Diego smoothly. Start the process here.
• Moving company insurance: Every state requires moving companies to carry different levels of insurance. 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: Use our moving checklist to stay on top of every detail and reduce last-minute stress.

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 getting comfortable in your new California home, it’s time to see what San Diego is all about. Whether you’re into food, art, nature, or nightlife — there’s plenty to check out:

• Arts and culture: From historic museums to vibrant art centers, San Diego offers cultural landmarks like 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 — among other sites — are great places to hike, ride bikes, or just enjoy nature.
• Sports: Grab a seat and root for the home team during an San Diego Padres (MLB)San Diego Gulls (AHL)San Diego Loyal SC (USL Championship) game.