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Irvine to San Diego, CA Movers (NEW 2026 Costs)

Easily compare and book your next move with moveBuddha
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  • Most moves 85 miles from Irvine to San Diego land between $1,166 and $3,265. A smaller move will cost around $101.
  • For a typical move with professional movers from Irvine to San Diego, expect a range of $1,166 and $3,265.*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 Irvine to San Diego 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 Irvine 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
4.9
  • 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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Container
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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 Irvine to San Diego

These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 85-mile move from Irvine to San Diego, CA, using pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Mar 16, 2026. moveBuddha aggregates thousands of verified pricing data points from movers across the country and refreshes them each month to capture seasonal shifts and market changes. Your actual cost can differ based on move size, add-on services, parking or access issues, fuel prices, and timing. We recommend getting quotes from several companies to understand your true price.
Studio Icon

Studio / 1 bedroom

  • Moving Company $616 - $2,976
  • Moving Container $635 - $1,156
  • Rental Truck $92 - $148
Two Three Bed Icon

2-3 bedrooms

  • Moving Company $1,166 - $3,265
  • Moving Container $818 - $1,551
  • Rental Truck $101 - $176
Four Bed Icon

4+ bedrooms

  • Moving Company $1,515 - $4,412
  • Moving Container $1,089 - $1,854
  • Rental Truck $117 - $188
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.
United Van Lines
Stanton, CA Chula Vista, CA
Icon of a house 1 Bedroom (small)
Icon of a calendar Jan 30, 2026
AB Moving
Placentia, CA National City, CA
Icon of a house 1 Bedroom (small)
Icon of a calendar Jan 25, 2026
North American Van Lines
North Tustin, CA La Presa, CA
Icon of a house 5+ Bedrooms
Icon of a calendar Jan 13, 2026
Roadway Moving
Westminster, CA Del Mar, CA
Icon of a house 2 Bedrooms
Icon of a calendar Jan 13, 2026
Mayzlin Relocation
Dana Point, CA San Diego, CA
Icon of a house 2 Bedrooms
Icon of a calendar Jan 12, 2026
Mayflower Transit
Aliso Viejo, CA Lakeside, CA
Icon of a house 5+ Bedrooms
Icon of a calendar Jan 02, 2026
Colonial Van Lines
Ladera Ranch, CA La Mesa, CA
Icon of a house Studio apartment
Icon of a calendar Dec 28, 2025
PODS
Laguna Woods, CA El Cajon, CA
Icon of a house 1 Bedroom (small)
Icon of a calendar Dec 27, 2025
Budget Truck Rental
Seal Beach, CA Winter Gardens, CA
Icon of a house 1 Bedroom (small)
Icon of a calendar Dec 26, 2025
Joyce Van Lines
La Habra, CA Imperial Beach, CA
Icon of a house 5+ Bedrooms
Icon of a calendar Nov 29, 2025

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

Local moving companies in Irvine

Picking one of the 372 local movers in California for your Irvine to San Diego relocation can take the stress out of moving. Local movers know the region well, provide tailored services, and handle everything from packing and loading to transporting your belongings so your move is quicker and smoother from start to finish.

  1. Maison Moving: 4.56 out of 5 stars
  2. NorthStar Moving Company : 4.58 out of 5 stars
  3. Meathead Movers: 4.52 out of 5 stars
  4. Best Fit Movers: 4.52 out of 5 stars
  5. California Movers Local & Long Distance Moving Company: 4.5 out of 5 stars
84% of all reviews were positive
14% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Word spreads fast about a moving company that gets the job done. Out of 293 customer reviews, Maison Moving earned high marks, with 84% giving glowing feedback. Customers repeatedly mention the efficiency, professionalism, and care shown by the movers, highlighting strong communication, timely arrivals, and careful handling of belongings. Many found booking straightforward, pricing transparent, and crews helpful and polite. Moving day stresses were often eased by their quick, organized approach. Negative feedback, making up 14% of input, centered on damaged or missing items and rare delays or unprepared crews. Some clients were frustrated by the claims process or communication breakdowns after problems. Only 1% described neutral experiences, usually pointing out minor issues like unexpected fees or average service. Compared to others, Maison Moving stands out for its reliable, efficient service but could improve on accountability and claims handling when things go wrong.
Get a Quote (800) 832-5950

Company Info

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State license #: 0190726

Years in Business: 17

DOT #: 76628

Alternate Names: Orange County Movers Inc , College Boys Moving and Storage of Orange County , Affordable Moving and Storage of Orange County

Services Offered

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  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
94% of all reviews were positive
4% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Moving day becomes stress-free with NorthStar Moving Company, based on feedback from 68 customers—94% shared strong praise. Their most valued traits include efficient service, careful handling of items, and a professional, helpful crew. Customers frequently highlight the movers’ speed, organization, and willingness to assist with unplanned needs, setting NorthStar apart from other companies. Pricing transparency and reliable scheduling also add extra appeal, while both large and small moves often run smoothly, thanks to teams going above and beyond. Some dissatisfied input focused on hard-to-reach representatives, poor communication, and a few timing issues which caused frustration. Still, negative experiences accounted for less than 5% of all feedback, and most clients endorsed NorthStar for local, long distance, and even last-minute relocations. Compared to other moving companies, NorthStar consistently impresses with attentive teams and smooth execution, making it a top choice for those seeking security and reliability during a move.
Get a Quote (800) 275-7767

Company Info

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State license #: 0182466

Years in Business: 30

DOT #: 1836576

Alternate Names: NorthStar Moving Corporation

Services Offered

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  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
77% of all reviews were positive
20% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Meathead Movers stands out for hustle, professionalism, and customer care. Out of 596 feedback entries, 76.7% reflected positive experiences, far surpassing most moving services. Customers consistently mention the professional and polite attitude of staff, quick and efficient moves, careful handling of belongings, and clear communication throughout the process. On the other hand, some input details damage to furniture or property, unexpected costs, and occasional delays with arrival or delivery. Still, the frequency of efficient and careful service notably outweighs these issues. Based on customer input, Meathead Movers sets a higher standard for moving companies by maintaining reliable service, though attention to damage prevention and transparent pricing could be further improved to match their strong reputation.
Get a Quote (949) 485-7883

Company Info

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State license #: 189849

Years in Business: 23

DOT #: 921143

Alternate Names: Meat Head Movers Inc , Meathead Movers Inc

Services Offered

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  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Storage
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
93% of all reviews were positive
7% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Movers at Best Fit Movers deliver speed and professionalism. Analyzing 227 customer reviews, 92.5% reflect favorable experiences, often calling out efficient service, careful handling of belongings, and polite, helpful staff. Many mention quick moving processes and attention to customer needs. On the downside, 7% of feedback notes serious problems, mostly tied to belongings being damaged, prices ending up higher than expected, or crews arriving later than planned. A small slice of feedback highlighted inconsistent communication and issues resolving claims. Customers choosing Best Fit Movers will likely notice a much higher satisfaction rate than found at most moving companies, although the sharpest concerns come from those whose items were damaged or whose final bills differed from what they’d been quoted. For those seeking reliability and fast-moving teams, Best Fit Movers stands out, but a handful of users report major disappointments related to mishandled property or added expenses.
Get a Quote (949) 996-9940

Company Info

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State license #: 0191680

Years in Business: 7

DOT #: 3051481

Alternate Names: Best Fit Movers LLC

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
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Safes
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required
99% of all reviews were positive
1% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Movers who hustle and handle with care: California Movers Local & Long Distance Moving Company receives near-unanimous praise in 142 total customer reviews. With 98.6% leaving positive feedback, customers often point to efficient service, careful treatment of belongings, and a professional, polite crew. Speed and helpfulness stand out, with many highlighting moves completed quickly and without damage. Communication and friendliness exceed expectations, and several reviews mention stress-free experiences compared to other moving companies. Only two reviewers reported problems—one citing unprofessional behavior and damage, another mentioning unfulfilled discounts and unclear charges. In this feedback, negative stories emphasize a desire for honest service and better manners. Compared to others, this company’s consistency, reliability, and upbeat staff put them at the top of the local moving industry. Most customers recommend them to friends, and repeat business is common among those who have moved more than once.
Get a Quote (415) 481-4343

Company Info

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State license #: 0192676

Pricing: $159/hr

Years in Business: 9

DOT #: 2890482

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
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Safes
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required

Cost to move from Irvine to San Diego

The table below shows average moving costs from Irvine to San Diego. We’ve categorized pricing by home size and type of service for easy side-by-side comparison.

Move size Moving company Moving container Rental
truck
Studio / 1 bedroom $520 - $2,333 $435 - $1,049 $98 - $143
2 - 3 bedrooms $1,166 - $3,265 $818 - $1,551 $101 - $176
4+ bedrooms $1,515 - $4,412 $1,089 - $1,854 $117 - $188
*The prices shown are rough estimates for a 85-mile move from Irvine to San Diego, informed by moveBuddha pricing data as of Mar 16, 2026. moveBuddha collects thousands of verified price points nationwide and updates the dataset monthly to mirror seasonal changes and market trends. Your final cost can change due to move size, add-ons, parking/access limitations, fuel rates, and schedule. We suggest comparing several mover quotes for the most accurate pricing.

Cost to hire movers from Irvine to San Diego

Hiring movers for a studio or one-bedroom home from Irvine to San Diego typically runs between $520 and $2,333. A two- to three-bedroom move from Irvine to San Diego usually ranges from $1,166 to $3,265, while a larger move from Irvine to San Diego often costs $1,515 to $4,412.

Cost of moving containers from Irvine to San Diego

For moves from Irvine to San Diego using moving containers, a small move usually costs $435–$1,049. Two- to three-bedroom moves often fall between $818 and $1,551. Larger (four-bedroom+) moves typically range from $1,089 to $1,854. Learn more about PODS cost.

Check out the most affordable moving container companies for your move in California.

Cost of renting a moving truck from Irvine to San Diego

Opting for a rental truck from Irvine to San Diego typically saves the most money, but you’ll need to handle both the driving and the loading/unloading.

Moving a studio or one-bedroom apartment in a rental truck will cost around $98 to $143. A two to three-bedroom move will cost $101 to $176, and moving a home with four or more bedrooms from Irvine to San Diego costs around $117 to $188.

These quotes include the estimated fuel cost.

Considerations when moving from Irvine to San Diego

Cost of living: Irvine vs. San Diego

The cost of living in Irvine vs. San Diego isn’t just about housing costs. We’ll lay out everything that matters, including rent, home prices, average income, everyday spending, and local job trends, so you can easily see how life in San Diego compares to what you’re used to in Irvine.

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

Irvine San Diego
Average rent cost $4,000 $2,881
Average home cost $1,561,760 $1,003,444
Average income (per capita) $114,027 $72,963
Cost of living (single person) $9,167 $3,346
Cost of living (family of 4) $18,000 $7,719
Unemployment rate 5.4% 6.6%
Average Sales Tax 7.75% 7.75%
  • Rent in San Diego is about 28% cheaper than in Irvine. That means you’ll probably free up more of your budget for savings, fun, or other expenses.
  • Home prices in San Diego are 36% lower than in Irvine. That means you’ll have an easier time buying a home, locking in an affordable mortgage, and still having money left over for what matters most to you.
  • Income in San Diego is 36% lower than in Irvine, which might mean you’ll need to watch your budget, especially if your income doesn’t keep pace with the cost of living.
  • The cost of living for a single person in San Diego is 63% lower than in Irvine, meaning you'll likely have more financial flexibility, allowing for increased savings, spending, or investment opportunities.
  • Good news, living costs are 57% lower in San Diego than in Irvine. That means your money goes further, giving you more room in your budget and a chance to boost your quality of life after the move.
  • The unemployment rate in San Diego is 22% higher than in Irvine. This could make finding work more challenging and potentially affect job security, especially if you're moving without a job lined up.
  • You’ll find sales taxes are basically identical in San Diego and Irvine, which means no change in what you’ll pay at checkout.

If you typically live on $3,000 a month in Irvine, you’ll need about $1,110 to enjoy a similar lifestyle in San Diego.

How life is different in Irvine vs. San Diego

Before you move, check out how life in San Diego measures up to Irvine. You can easily compare the weather, cost of living, politics, safety, and population side by side. This comparison makes it easier to tell which city better fits your lifestyle and needs.

Irvine San Diego
Population 307,670 1,386,932
Political leaning Democratic 49.8-48.3 Democratic 60-37
Summer high 82ºF 79ºF
Winter low 46ºF 46ºF
Annual rain 13" 12"
Annual snow 0" 0"
Crime index 31.01 39.83
  • San Diego has a population roughly 351% higher than Irvine. Relocating to a bigger city brings more people, possibilities, cultural experiences, and higher costs and a faster paced lifestyle. Whether that energizes or exhausts you all comes down to what you’re looking for.
  • During the last presidential election, both Irvine and San Diego supported the Democratic candidate.
  • You’ll find that both San Diego and Irvine have similar summer temperatures, so expect the same warm weather you’re used to, without changing your routine.
  • In the coldest months, you’ll find similar low temperatures in both Irvine and San Diego—with winter lows around 46°F and 46°F.
  • Both Irvine and San Diego see similar yearly rainfall—Irvine averages 13 inches, while San Diego gets 12 inches.
  • Both Irvine and San Diego receive virtually no snowfall each year, so you won’t have to plan for winter weather in either city.
  • San Diego shows a higher crime rate than Irvine, with index scores of 39.83 compared to 31.01.

Things to do in San Diego

Whether you prefer to be in the great outdoors, soak up some culture, or catch a live game, Irvine has plenty to offer:

Museums in San Diego

  • USS Midway Museum
  • Birch Aquarium at Scripps
  • Maritime Museum of San Diego
  • San Diego Air & Space Museum
  • Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego

Parks in San Diego

  • La Jolla Cove
  • Balboa Park
  • La Jolla Shores Park
  • Sunset Cliffs Natural Park
  • Ellen Browning Scripps Park

Sports teams in San Diego

  • San Diego Padres (MLB)
  • San Diego Gulls (AHL)
  • San Diego Loyal SC (USL Championship)

Universities in San Diego

  • California State University-San Marcos
  • California Western School of Law
  • San Diego Christian College
  • National University
  • Point Loma Nazarene University

FAQ

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

Shipping furniture from Irvine to San Diego with a moving company typically costs between $520 and $2,333. If you’re relocating a two- or three-bedroom home, expect to pay anywhere from $1,166 to $3,265. For a four-bedroom home or larger, prices generally fall between $1,515 and $4,412 for that same route.

How much are moving container companies from Irvine to San Diego?

If you’re planning a move from Irvine to San Diego and thinking about using moving containers, here’s a quick look at typical costs: For a studio or one-bedroom, prices usually fall between $435 and $1,049. For a two- or three-bedroom home, expect to pay from $818 to $1,551. Have an even larger house? Moves for four- or five-bedroom homes typically range from $1,089 to $1,854.

How much is a moving truck from Irvine to San Diego?

If you’re looking to save money, renting a moving truck is often the most budget-friendly choice. Keep in mind, though— you’ll need to handle both the driving and the heavy lifting yourself. To keep things transparent, we’ve factored estimated fuel costs into our pricing so you know exactly what to expect.

If you’re renting a truck for a studio or one-bedroom move, expect to pay between $98 and $143. Moving a larger apartment? Costs typically fall between $101 and $176. For four-bedroom homes or bigger going from Irvine to San Diego, truck rentals usually range from $117 up to $188.

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

To make your move from Irvine to San Diego as stress-free as possible, lock in your movers at least two months before your big day. If you’re planning a summer move, aim for three months ahead, because spots fill up fast! Booking early not only boosts your chances of getting the date you want, but you might also score a better deal since many companies offer early-bird discounts for customers who plan ahead.

What time of year is the cheapest to move to San Diego?

The cheapest time of year to move to San Diego is between early October and late April. This period is outside of the moving industry’s peak season (May–September), which means demand — and therefore pricing — will typically be lower. A majority of U.S. moves happen between May and August, so staying outside the busy summer months will help you save money.

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