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($1,669) Cost to Move From Portland, ME to San Diego, CA

Easily compare and book your next move with moveBuddha
Estimated cost & time: Relocating 3,136 miles from Portland to San Diego typically costs between $1,716 and $9,901. The trip is expected to last from seven–21 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 Portland 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 Portland to San Diego

Opting for a full-service mover can make your interstate move from Portland 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 Portland, there are 7 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 Portland to San Diego

These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 3,136-mile move from Portland 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 $3,204 – $7,437
  • Moving Container $1,922 – $4,062
  • Rental Truck $1,601 – $3,106
Two Three Bed Icon

2-3 bedrooms

  • Moving Company $4,884 – $9,901
  • Moving Container $2,572 – $5,609
  • Rental Truck $1,716 – $3,585
Four Bed Icon

4+ bedrooms

  • Moving Company $8,558 – $15,193
  • Moving Container $3,518 – $7,371
  • Rental Truck $2,259 – $4,449
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.
Mayzlin Relocation
South Portland, ME Imperial Beach, CA
1 Bedroom (large)
Oct 20, 2025
United Van Lines
Westbrook, ME Winter Gardens, CA
1 Bedroom (large)
Oct 02, 2025
1-800-Pack-Rat
Biddeford, ME Solana Beach, CA
1 Bedroom (large)
Sep 14, 2025
Colonial Van Lines
Standish, ME Hillcrest, CA
5+ Bedrooms
Sep 06, 2025
Safeway Moving
Falmouth, ME Escondido, CA
3 Bedrooms
Sep 05, 2025
Allied Van Lines
Auburn, ME Oceanside, CA
5+ Bedrooms
Aug 25, 2025
Mayflower Transit
Gorham, ME Lemon Grove, CA
Studio apartment
Aug 23, 2025
Budget Truck Rental
Sanford, ME National City, CA
5+ Bedrooms
Aug 18, 2025
Roadway Moving
Scarborough, ME San Diego, CA
2 Bedrooms
Aug 10, 2025
BLVD Moving
Kennebunk, ME Carlsbad, CA
1 Bedroom (small)
Aug 07, 2025

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

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

Finding a trusted local moving company in Portland that offers long-distance services to San Diego can be a challenge. Good news — we’ve done the homework for you. Our team reviewed nine top local movers in Portland 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 Portland to San Diego.

  1. Liberty Bell Moving & Storage of Maine: 4.5 out of 5 stars
  2. TWO MEN AND A TRUCK: 4.52 out of 5 stars
  3. Bisson Moving & Storage: 4.5 out of 5 stars
  4. Allen & Coles Moving Systems: 4.36 out of 5 stars
  5. Tiny Tim’s Moving: 4.14 out of 5 stars
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
67.7% of all reviews were positive
31.0% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Speedy, professional, and genuinely careful are the words customers use most in their feedback on Liberty Bell Moving & Storage of Maine. After examining 226 reviews, about 68% share positive experiences—much higher than is typical for movers in the region. People rave about swift, effective service and consistently polite team members who treat belongings with respect. Many mention efficient booking, clear communication, and how movers save clients time and hassle, sometimes accomplishing in hours what others would take all day. Several positive comments highlight movers arriving on time, providing status updates, and making sure each item is placed carefully. Costs are often seen as fair and up-front, which sets the company apart from others that add surprise charges. Negative feedback, making up 31%, commonly centers on items being damaged, some crews arriving hours late or even canceling at the last minute, and a handful of customers describing confrontations with management and unprofessional interactions. These customers report frustrations with complaint handling and say unpleasant experiences weren’t sufficiently resolved. Some mention lost property or property damage, with unsatisfactory follow-through on claims. Neutral comments are rare but generally point to issues with quotes or communication rather than performance. Compared to other moving companies, Liberty Bell Moving & Storage of Maine stands out for its efficiency and consistent professionalism during moves, but recurring complaints about item damage and customer service on difficult days should be weighed carefully when booking.
Get a Quote (207) 890-7475

Company Info

Years in Business: 16

DOT #: 1846942

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • 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
95.5% of all reviews were positive
4.5% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Raving fans lead the chorus for Two Men and a Truck, with 244 reviews analyzed and 95.5% offering glowing feedback. Customers most often mention the team’s efficiency, professionalism, and care when handling belongings. Movers consistently show up on time, work fast, remain friendly, and treat items with respect, setting them apart from many companies in the moving industry. The staff’s politeness and strong communication earn repeated praise. A small number of complaints highlight issues such as item damage, rude or unhelpful office staff, and higher final charges than quoted. Even though only 4.5% of the feedback is negative, these reviews describe serious incidents with damaged goods or disappointing customer service—concerns not uncommon in this sector but flagged more harshly by affected customers. Compared to most movers, Two Men and a Truck receive far more high marks for service quality, reliability, and the pleasant attitude of their teams, with only isolated negative experiences amid a sea of positive reports.
Get a Quote (207) 536-3452

Company Info

Years in Business: 8

DOT #: 2527384

Alternate Names: TMT Portland, LLC

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Pianos
  • Storage
  • Safes
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
71.3% of all reviews were positive
25.3% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Consistently strong service sets Bisson Moving & Storage apart in the industry. Analyzing 87 reviews, about 71% of feedback highlights careful handling, professional staff, fast moving, and proactive communication. Customers often praise efficiency and care with belongings, noting prompt, polite crews who minimize moving stress. Pricing and timing are usually clear and reliable. Some clients describe issues, with 25% of feedback citing property damage, lack of communication, or unexpected charges—issues other movers face but mentioned less here. Neutral feedback is rare. Bisson rates above average among moving companies for professionalism, communication, and the courtesy of its team, though a few negative experiences involve poor follow-up and damaged goods.
Get a Quote (207) 591-1000

Company Info

Years in Business: 105

DOT #: 125550

Alternate Names: Bisson Moving & Storage Company , Bisson I & R Commercial Services , Bisson I & R Document Security , Bisson Transportation

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Grandfather clocks
  • Crating
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Safes
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
86.1% of all reviews were positive
13.4% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Rave reviews set Allen & Coles Moving Systems apart with most feedback praising their professional, efficient, and friendly moving crews. Across 194 reviews, 86% express satisfaction, highlighting the team’s skillful handling, clear communication, and swift process. Movers consistently impress by protecting belongings and maintaining a courteous attitude. Customers frequently mention on-time arrivals, proactive communication, and the careful way staff handle property, which keeps moves stress-free and earns high recommendations. A small number of customers, about 13%, report issues like a lack of communication, damages, or surprise charges—mostly related to scheduling or billing confusion. These concerns also involve delayed responses or trouble resolving claims. While negative feedback does appear, especially regarding responsiveness or unexpected costs, Allen & Coles stands out in the moving industry for reliability and personal service, as shown by the volume of glowing input compared to the limited setbacks described.
Get a Quote (207) 370-6323

Company Info

Years in Business: 38

DOT #: 070851

Alternate Names: Agent for North American Van Lines , Allen & Coles Moving System

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Pool Tables
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Safes
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
76.6% of all reviews were positive
23.4% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Customers say Tiny Tim’s Moving stands out for efficiency, competitive rates, and friendly movers who arrive on time and handle items with care. Many point out quick, stress-free moves and transparent pricing, features that set this company apart from larger competitors. Professional attitudes, affordability, and problem-solving earn high praise. Some feedback points to issues like damaged items, lack of accountability for property damage, slow or delayed crews, and poor responses from management when claims arise. While most experiences are positive, a noticeable portion of negative input focuses on professionalism and responsibility for customer property.
Get a Quote (207) 828-6575

Company Info

Years in Business: 31

DOT #: 626233

Alternate Names: Tiny Tims Moving & Trucking, Inc.

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Pay by credit card

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

In Maine, moving services typically cost around $225 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 $1,669 – $6,832 $1,466 – $3,621 $1,617 – $3,201
2 – 3 bedrooms $4,884 – $9,901 $2,572 – $5,609 $1,716 – $3,585
4+ bedrooms $8,558 – $15,193 $3,518 – $7,371 $2,259 – $4,449
*These ranges provide an approximation for a 3,136-mile move from Portland 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 Portland to San Diego

If you’re packing up a studio or one-bedroom to move to San Diego from Portland, you can expect prices to land between $1,669 and $6,832. For a two- or three-bedroom space, your costs will usually range from $4,884 to $9,901 for the trip from Portland to San Diego. If you’re moving a large four- or five-bedroom home, you’re likely looking at a price tag between $8,558 and $15,193.

Cost of moving containers from Portland to San Diego

Moving containers from Portland to San Diego will cost you $1,466 to $3,621 for a small move. For a two- to three-bedroom move, moving containers can cost $2,572 to $5,609. A four-bedroom move or bigger will cost $3,518 to $7,371. Learn more about PODS cost.

Here are the cheapest moving container companies when moving out of Maine.

Cost of moving truck rentals from Portland to San Diego

Renting a moving truck from Portland 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 $1,617 and $3,201 to move a studio or one-bedroom apartment with a rental truck. For a two- or three-bedroom move, prices usually range from $1,716 to $3,585. If you’re relocating a four-bedroom (or larger) home, you’ll likely spend anywhere from $2,259 to $4,449.

These estimates factor in the average cost of fuel.

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

The cost of Portland movers will depend on:

  • Home size: The number of rooms makes a big difference. Expect around $3,370 for a one-bedroom, or up to $14,189 for a four-bedroom.
  • The time of year you’re moving: Rates climb in summer because of peak season demand in Portland.
  • DIY vs. professional: Rental trucks can range from $1,617 to $4,059, but require more effort than hiring movers.

What to know before moving from Portland to San Diego

Expect a bump in monthly expenses after the move – San Diego runs about 34% higher for singles and 27% higher for families than Portland.

Singles spend around $3,346 in Portland versus $2,491 in Portland; families pay $7,719 compared with $6,060.

Dig into the side-by-side details here:

Portland San Diego
Average 1 BR rent $1,925 $2,704
Average 3 BR rent $3,500 $4,914
Average home value $542,001 $1,003,444
Average income (per capita) $64,171 $72,963
Cost of living (single) $2,491 $3,346
Cost of living (family of four) $6,060 $7,719
Unemployment rate 5.2% 6.6%
Sales tax 5.5% 7.75%
State income tax 5.8% 13.3%
  • Planning a move to San Diego? Keep in mind that rent could be approximately 45% higher than in Portland, so be sure to adjust your monthly expenses accordingly.
  • Anticipate a larger mortgage expense since home prices in San Diego are about 85% higher than those in Portland.
  • Exciting update: you’ll see an average income that’s about 14% higher in San Diego compared to Portland, 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 34% higher than in Portland. 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 27% higher than in Portland.
  • San Diego shows an unemployment rate that exceeds Portland by around 27%. This increase suggests a broader candidate selection for employers, possibly making the job market more competitive for applicants.
  • Sales taxes in San Diego are 41% more than in Portland, implying increased costs for common purchases like apparel, dining, and gadgets.
  • Income taxes in California are 129% above those in Maine. 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 Portland and San Diego:

Living Expense Portland San Diego
Basic utilities $203.15 $277.55
Cell phone plan $54.88 $66.79
Dozen eggs $4.26 $5.26
Loaf of bread $3.62 $4.50
Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) $25.00 $21.00
Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) $120.00 $100.00
Gym membership $65.00 $65.68
  • Basic utilities cost less in Portland than in San Diego, helping trim your monthly bills.
  • Cell phone plans are cheaper in Portland than in San Diego.
  • Eggs are less expensive in Portland than in San Diego.
  • Bread costs less in Portland than in San Diego.
  • A quick meal tends to cost more in Portland than in San Diego.
  • A mid-range dinner for two is pricier in Portland than in San Diego.
  • Gym memberships are more affordable in Portland than in San Diego.

How life is different in Portland vs. San Diego

Portland San Diego
Population 68,408 1,386,932
Transportation score 6 6
Walkability score 62 53
Bike friendliness score 68 43
Crime index 32.16 39.83
Safety index 67.84 60.17
Air quality Good Moderate
  • San Diego’s population is about 1927% greater than Portland.
  • San Diego’s public transportation score is within about 5% of Portland, making them very similar.
  • San Diego is less walkable than Portland with a score of 53 out of 100 vs Portland’s 62 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 Portland, which has a score of 68.
  • San Diego’s crime rate is higher than Portland with a score of 39.83 compared to Portland’s 32.16. This means that San Diego neighborhoods are safer than 39.83% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Portland neighborhoods are safer than 32.16%.
  • San Diego is considered to be less safe than Portland with a score of 60.17 vs Portland’s 67.84.
  • Air quality in San Diego is Moderate, and in Portland it’s Good.

Other things to consider for your Portland 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 Portland to San Diego?

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

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

Because most people are moving from Portland 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 Portland to San Diego take?

The 3,136-mile journey from Portland, ME to San Diego, , typically takes seven to 21 days. Some movers in Portland 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 Portland?

Not all movers have the resources to handle high-value or delicate items. In Portland, 9 movers can manage piano relocations. 6 movers are equipped for antique transport. By comparison, Maine has 13 piano movers and 7 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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