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($1,191) Cost to Move From Durham, NC to San Diego, CA

Easily compare and book your next move with moveBuddha
Estimated cost & time: Moving 2,523 miles from Durham to San Diego has an average cost ranging from $1,504 to $7,140. Anticipate a journey duration of roughly seven–21 days. Final expenses can fluctuate based on the distance, date, size of the home, and whether you choose a DIY approach or hire professional movers.
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Best movers from Durham 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 Durham to San Diego

Choosing a full-service mover is ideal when you prefer experts to oversee your interstate move from Durham to San Diego. These companies handle all the details, allowing you to dedicate your energy to your next steps.

There are 26 interstate moving companies in Durham. We recommend the top selections to ensure a stress-free journey 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 Durham to San Diego

These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 2,523-mile move from Durham to San Diego using pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Nov 07, 2025. We source thousands of verified price points from moving companies nationwide and update them every month to mirror seasonal patterns and market trends. Actual pricing varies with the size of your move, optional services, access/parking challenges, fuel costs, and scheduling. For accuracy, compare estimates from more than one mover.
Studio Icon

Studio / 1 bedroom

  • Moving Company $2,311 – $5,661
  • Moving Container $1,736 – $3,396
  • Rental Truck $1,458 – $2,795
Two Three Bed Icon

2-3 bedrooms

  • Moving Company $3,426 – $7,140
  • Moving Container $2,202 – $4,628
  • Rental Truck $1,504 – $3,296
Four Bed Icon

4+ bedrooms

  • Moving Company $6,634 – $10,940
  • Moving Container $3,255 – $6,487
  • Rental Truck $1,899 – $4,121
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.
PODS
Louisburg, NC Poway, CA
2 Bedrooms
Oct 23, 2025
Mayzlin Relocation
Youngsville, NC San Marcos, CA
4 Bedrooms
Oct 10, 2025
United Van Lines
Holly Springs, NC National City, CA
Studio apartment
Sep 21, 2025
Colonial Van Lines
Elon, NC Valley Center, CA
3 Bedrooms
Sep 20, 2025
Allied Van Lines
Morrisville, NC Bostonia, CA
1 Bedroom (small)
Sep 01, 2025
1-800-Pack-Rat
Roxboro, NC Coronado, CA
Studio apartment
Aug 23, 2025
American Van Lines
Raleigh, NC Lemon Grove, CA
Studio apartment
Aug 17, 2025
Roadway Moving
Knightdale, NC Vista, CA
1 Bedroom (small)
Aug 16, 2025
Mayflower Transit
Haw River, NC Spring Valley, CA
3 Bedrooms
Aug 13, 2025
Safeway Moving
Graham, NC Oceanside, CA
1 Bedroom (large)
Aug 06, 2025

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

Highly rated local moving companies for Durham to San Diego moves

Organizing a move from Durham to San Diego can be daunting, particularly when trying to identify a reliable mover that offers long-distance services. We’ve done the groundwork for you, evaluating 27 local movers in Durham known for their long-distance moving capabilities, assessing them on pricing, customer experiences, and reliability.

Here are the best local movers for long-distance moves from Durham to San Diego.

  1. TROSA Moving: 4.5 out of 5 stars
  2. TWO MEN AND A TRUCK: 4.52 out of 5 stars
  3. Truckin’ Movers Corporation: 4.5 out of 5 stars
  4. Miracle Movers: 4.52 out of 5 stars
  5. Bellhop Moving: 4.44 out of 5 stars
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
84.5% of all reviews were positive
14.6% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Moving doesn’t get easier, but customers say TROSA Moving delivers some of the best service in the region. In this analysis of 323 reviews, 84.5% reflect positive feedback, showing that most customers value TROSA’s efficient service, professional staff, and careful handling of belongings. Many highlight affordable rates and quick, smooth moving processes—even for complex moves or specialty items. A few reviews describe honest, responsive follow-up for minor hiccups, with frequent praise for thoroughness and reliability. Negative feedback, although much less frequent, centers on damage to items, communication lapses, and dissatisfaction with some staff interaction. Some customers reported careless packing, unresponsive customer service, or rude behavior during quotes or scheduling. Compared to other movers, TROSA stands out for going above and beyond to resolve complaints and for competitive pricing. The small portion of neutral feedback acknowledges both the care and quick response from TROSA, even if some minor issues required follow-up. Across the board, most reviewers recommend TROSA with confidence, especially appreciating their consistent professionalism and value.
Get a Quote (919) 419-1059

Company Info

State license #: C-726

Years in Business: 31

DOT #: 675014

Alternate Names: TROSA Inc., TROSA Moving & Storage, TROSA Lawn Care, TROSA Thrift , TROSA Moving , Triangle Residential Options for Substance Abusers , Trosa Furniture & Frameshop , TROSA Lawncare

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
78.0% of all reviews were positive
22.0% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Moving doesn’t have to be a headache—TWO MEN AND A TRUCK receives high marks from most customers, with 78% of the 273 reviews expressing satisfaction. Many people praise the team’s efficient service and fast-moving process, highlighting how careful staff routinely handle items with respect. Professionalism, excellent communication, and punctuality set this mover apart from typical competitors. Customers often note their moves finish quickly and without damage, boosting trust in the experience. On the flip side, 22% rendered negative feedback, mostly about items arriving damaged, poor complaint resolution, and unexpected final costs. Some report difficulty reaching support when resolving claims, and a handful describe costly surprises on invoices. Compared to other moving companies, TWO MEN AND A TRUCK delivers top-tier efficiency and professionalism, but falls short if something goes wrong and a customer needs follow-up. Most who need a reliable, careful move praise their work. Those focused on complaint handling or seeking guaranteed no-damage results should consider these risk points before booking.
Get a Quote (919) 261-7509

Company Info

State license #: 2443

Years in Business: 26

DOT #: 2527384

Alternate Names: Oliver & Finley, LLC , Two Men And A Truck

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Pianos
  • Storage
  • Safes
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
92.8% of all reviews were positive
6.5% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Thousands of Triangle-area customers agree—Truckin’ Movers Corporation delivers a moving experience that’s a cut above most competitors. Out of 263 customer feedback entries examined, a remarkable 93% described positive results. Repeated praise centers on professional and polite staff, careful handling of possessions, efficient service, clear communication, and fast moving processes. Customers consistently note moves happening on time, accurate price estimates, and items delivered undamaged—even during complex interstate or international relocations. Negative input represents less than 7% of all feedback, and most issues involve items damaged in transit, inaccurate estimates leading to higher final bills, or delayed arrivals and deliveries. Some negative experiences also raise concerns about problem resolution and claims processes. Despite a few challenging moves, Truckin’ Movers sets a high standard for reliability and care, with service quality that stands out among area moving companies.
Get a Quote (919) 682-2300

Company Info

State license #: 2262

Years in Business: 48

DOT #: 0233952

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Shipment tracking
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Safes
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
82.4% of all reviews were positive
16.5% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Smooth moves and satisfied customers paint Miracle Movers as a standout among moving companies—of 255 reviews, 82.4% shine with positive feedback. Customers consistently praise the efficient service, careful handling, professional crews, speedy moves, and clear communication. Many note the company excels at protecting belongings and making stressful transitions feel easy. On the other hand, the most consistent complaints are about damage to household items, slow or lacking responses to claims, and occasional unexpected or higher charges at billing. Despite these issues, negative comments account for less than one-fifth of feedback, considerably lower than industry averages. For most clients, Miracle Movers reliably delivers a prompt, safe move with friendly staff, putting it well ahead of many competitors who struggle with service consistency and trust.
Get a Quote (919) 656-4043

Company Info

State license #: 2894

Years in Business: 19

DOT #: 2461529

Alternate Names: Miracle Movers of Raleigh, LLC

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
53.1% of all reviews were positive
46.9% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Bellhop Moving stands out for movers who work quickly, handle items with care, and maintain a friendly, professional attitude. Over half the feedback highlights a smooth, efficient moving process. Customers appreciate reliable scheduling, approachable staff, and fast service—traits that compare well to industry standards. Some clients, though, face problems like damaged belongings, unexpected charges, or late arrivals. Main complaints point to carelessness with items, delays, and surprise fees. A number of customers also had trouble with customer service responsiveness during issues. While many would recommend Bellhop for efficient, courteous movers, those with damaged goods or billing issues experienced significant frustration. Out of 32 customer inputs, 53% were positive, suggesting the company often delivers strong results but still has areas needing improvement.
Get a Quote (919) 246-4318

Company Info

State license #: 2934

Years in Business: 14

DOT #: 2878240

Alternate Names: Bellhop Moving Services

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required

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

On average, moving companies in North Carolina charge about $145 per hour. Consider these typical rates for a full-service moving company, moving container, or rental truck:

Move size Moving company Moving container Rental
truck
Studio / 1 bedroom $1,191 – $4,922 $1,319 – $3,084 $1,444 – $2,607
2 – 3 bedrooms $3,426 – $7,140 $2,202 – $4,628 $1,504 – $3,296
4+ bedrooms $6,634 – $10,940 $3,255 – $6,487 $1,899 – $4,121
*Estimated cost ranges for a 2,523-mile move from Durham to San Diego are shown here using moveBuddha data as of Nov 07, 2025. We compile thousands of verified price points from nationwide movers and update the dataset monthly to account for seasonal patterns and broader market trends. Your total may differ depending on volume, selected services, parking/access limitations, fuel prices, and timing. Comparing quotes from multiple moving companies is the best way to pinpoint a precise price.

Cost to hire movers from Durham to San Diego

When planning a move to San Diego from Durham, for a studio or one-bedroom, you’ll likely pay between $1,191 and $4,922. If you have a two- or three-bedroom home, expect costs to fall somewhere between $3,426 and $7,140 for the same journey. Moving four or five bedrooms? Typical prices range from $6,634 to $10,940.

Cost of moving containers from Durham to San Diego

When you’re heading from Durham to San Diego, and you’re only moving a few items, you can expect to spend between $1,319 and $3,084. For a two- or three-bedroom place, prices usually fall between $2,202 and $4,628. If you’re packing up a large home with four or more bedrooms, the cost can range from $3,255 to $6,487. Want more details? Check out our complete PODS cost guide.

Explore the top budget-friendly moving container companies to make your move from North Carolina easier and more affordable.

Cost of moving truck rentals from Durham to San Diego

A moving rental truck from Durham to San Diego is generally the cheapest option, but it requires you to do all of the driving and labor.

Moving a studio or one-bedroom apartment in a rental truck will cost around $1,444 to $2,607. A two to three-bedroom move will cost $1,504 to $3,296, and moving a home with four or more bedrooms from Durham to San Diego costs around $1,899 to $4,121.

These quotes include the estimated fuel cost.

Factors that affect moving costs from Durham to San Diego

The cost of Durham movers will depend on:

  • How much stuff you have: A one-bedroom move from Durham to San Diego may only cost $2,577, whereas a full four-bedroom relocation can approach $10,373.
  • The season you’re moving in: Movers charge more in summer, the busiest months in Durham.
  • Which type of mover you use: Save with a truck rental ($1,444–$3,403), but expect more hassle than hiring pros.

What to know before moving from Durham to San Diego

Expect a bump in monthly expenses after the move – San Diego runs about 19% higher for singles and 30% higher for families than Durham.

Singles spend around $3,346 in Durham versus $2,803 in Durham; families pay $7,719 compared with $5,945.

Dig into the side-by-side details here:

Durham San Diego
Average 1 BR rent $1,875 $2,704
Average 3 BR rent $2,573 $4,914
Average home value $391,719 $1,003,444
Average income (per capita) $69,117 $72,963
Cost of living (single) $2,803 $3,346
Cost of living (family of four) $5,945 $7,719
Unemployment rate 4.1% 6.6%
Sales tax 7.5% 7.75%
State income tax 4.5% 13.3%
  • Rent is about 70% more expensive in San Diego than in Durham. Make sure to include this increase in your monthly budget.
  • Plan for a heftier mortgage payment since home prices are approximately 156% steeper in San Diego compared to Durham.
  • Here’s some fantastic news, the average income is approximately 6% greater in San Diego than in Durham, offering more potential for savings or investments each month.
  • Prepare for elevated costs in San Diego, with the cost of living for a single person being 19% more than in Durham. This includes routine costs such as utilities, groceries, clothes, and transportation.
  • When considering a family move to San Diego, prepare for a potential rise in household expenses. The cost of living for a family here is 30% higher than in Durham.
  • San Diego has a higher unemployment rate than Durham by about 61%. This means that more people are out of work, so employers may have a larger pool of candidates to choose from, which can lead to a more competitive hiring process.
  • Sales taxes are nearly equal in both San Diego and Durham (within a 5% range), so budgeting should not be affected by this change.
  • Income taxes are 196% more in California than in North Carolina. This increase in state taxes means you will retain less of your earnings, impacting your disposable income.

Here’s the side-by-side view of common monthly bills and day-to-day expenses in Durham versus San Diego:

Living Expense Durham San Diego
Basic utilities $148.21 $277.55
Cell phone plan $51.67 $66.79
Dozen eggs $4.53 $5.26
Loaf of bread $3.66 $4.50
Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) $15.00 $21.00
Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) $70.00 $100.00
Gym membership $40.00 $65.68
  • Basic utilities cost less in Durham than in San Diego, helping trim your monthly bills.
  • Cell phone plans are cheaper in Durham than in San Diego.
  • Eggs are less expensive in Durham than in San Diego.
  • Bread costs less in Durham than in San Diego.
  • A quick meal is cheaper in Durham than in San Diego.
  • A mid-range dinner for two costs less in Durham than in San Diego.
  • Gym memberships are more affordable in Durham than in San Diego.

How life is different in Durham vs. San Diego

Durham San Diego
Population 283,506 1,386,932
Transportation score 4 6
Walkability score 30 53
Bike friendliness score 38 43
Crime index 54.72 39.83
Safety index 45.28 60.17
Air quality Good Moderate
  • San Diego’s population is about 389% greater than Durham.
  • San Diego’s public transportation score of 6 out of 10 is higher than Durham’s score of 4.
  • San Diego is more walkable than Durham with a score of 53 out of 100 vs Durham’s 30 out of 100.
  • With a score of 43 out of 100, San Diego is more bike-friendly than Durham, which has a score of 38 out of 100. The higher a city’s score, the more suited it is to safely accommodating cyclists.
  • San Diego’s crime rate is lower than Durham with a score of 39.83 compared to Durham’s 54.72. This means that San Diego neighborhoods are safer than 39.83% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Durham neighborhoods are safer than 54.72%.
  • San Diego is considered to be safer than Durham with a safety index of 60.17 vs Durham’s 45.28.
  • Air quality in San Diego is Moderate, and in Durham it’s Good.

Other things to consider for your Durham to San Diego move

  • HOA rules: Costs across Durham and San Diego are largely aligned, so your monthly budget shouldn’t shift much after the move.
  • Elevator reservation: If your building has an elevator you’ll want to check on how to reserve it for move day.
  • Truck parking permits: Many cities require special permits for parking large moving trucks. Check in advance to see if one is needed for your move.
  • 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. Ensure the company you choose is licensed to handle your move.
  • State regulator: To confirm a moving company’s license in California, visit the state’s public utilities commission.
  • Moving Permits: Moving permits aren’t typically required in California, but always confirm with local authorities to avoid surprises.
  • Change of address: You can set an official move date on the form and this way all of your mail will get properly forwarded to San Diego. Get started here.
  • Moving company insurance: Each state has its own requirements for the level of insurance moving companies must carry. 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: Let our moving checklist guide you through the process and help ensure nothing slips through the cracks.

Where to live in San Diego

With your sights set on America’s Finest City, these are some of the most popular neighborhoods to consider 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

With your move to California complete, you can dive right into experiencing San Diego. From cultural attractions to outdoor adventures, you’ll never run out of things to do:

  • Arts and culture: San Diego is home to museums and cultural arts centers 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 spots — perfect for hiking, biking, or simply soaking up the outdoors.
  • Sports: Experience the energy of a live game and back 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 Durham to San Diego?

If you’re flexible with timing, spring and fall are great seasons to move from Durham to San Diego. You’ll dodge the heat, the crowds, and the higher moving costs typical of peak season in Durham.

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

Want to save on your move from Durham to San Diego? Consider scheduling it in winter, when demand is lower and rates are often cheaper. Our moving discounts guide shows you how.

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

The 2,523-mile move from Durham, NC, to San Diego, , takes seven to 21 days. Some Durham movers may offer expedited moving if you need it faster. If you need more time, ask your mover about storage options in San Diego.

Need help moving a piano or antiques in Durham?

These delicate items require movers with specialized training. Currently, 19 movers in Durham provide piano moving services. 8 can transport antiques with care. Statewide, there are 78 piano movers and 38 antique movers, with nationwide counts at 2,303 and 1,466.

Demand for these services can be high, so schedule your specialty move as far ahead as possible.

Helpful moving resources

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