Best overall value
Local moving companies in San Diego
- Grizzly Moving: 4.86 out of 5 stars
- Republic Moving & Storage: 4.86 out of 5 stars
- We Like To Move It Moving: 4.76 out of 5 stars
- Cube Moving and Storage Inc: 4.72 out of 5 stars
- Dominant Moving Company: 4.62 out of 5 stars
Grizzly Moving
rating
4.86 / 5
DOT #: 2642040
Years in Business: 9
7090 Miramar Rd #102, San Diego, CA 92121 USCustomer input for Grizzly Moving points to standout performance: more than 92% of the 434 reviews highlight prompt, efficient, and careful service. Clients consistently mention that the team handles furniture cautiously and communicates well from booking to delivery. Movers show up on time, treat property with respect, and complete jobs swiftly, which sets Grizzly apart from standard moving companies. The staff is repeatedly described as professional, polite, and considerate, making stressful relocations easier for families, businesses, and individuals alike. On the downside, around 7% of reviewers cite real concerns, especially about damage to belongings, unexpected final costs, and, less frequently, delays or missed arrival windows. While complaints are few compared to the high volume of positive feedback, the nature of issuesโsuch as significant item damage or underestimated costsโare important for potential customers to consider before booking. Compared to competitors, Grizzlyโs consistent execution, fair communication, and efficient process earn high marks, though diligence is still advisable to clarify insurance, costs, and special handling when booking. With such a dominant trend of satisfied feedback, Grizzly ranks as a top contender, though a minority of experiences remind customers to confirm all details upfront.
Review Profiles
Services Offered
Move Distances
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
Available services
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Hot Tubs
- Pool Tables
- Art
- Antiques
- Crating
- Crane vans
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Safes
Additional Information
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
- DOT #: 2642040
- State license #: 0191376
Alternative Business Names
- Grizzly Movers LLC
Republic Moving & Storage
rating
4.86 / 5
DOT #: 3369820
Years in Business: 31
8140 St Andrews Ave, San Diego, CA 92154 USCustomers say Republic Moving & Storage stands out for speed, professionalism, and careful handling of belongings. Crews consistently arrive punctually, work efficiently, and communicate clearly, making moving days less stressful for families and individuals. Many highlight how staff go above and beyond to protect delicate items and accommodate client needs. Affordable rates and accurate pricing set the company apart from other movers, as does their polite and knowledgeable team. Issues arise mainly with damage to items during transit, late arrivals, and breakdowns in communication, especially during long-distance or complex moves. While most feedback is positive, a sizable portion of input points to frustration with handling claims, delays, and some property loss. Republic's track record for efficient, courteous service positions them above many competitors, but persistent complaints about item damage and occasional administrative issues indicate room for improvement and more reliable service for every customer. A total of 501 reviews were analyzed, with about 75% giving positive input.
Review Profiles
Services Offered
Move Distances
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
Available services
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Hot Tubs
- Pool Tables
- Art
- Antiques
- Grandfather clocks
- Crating
- Crane vans
- Shipment tracking
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Fragile-only packing
- Safes
Additional Information
- Pay by money order
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
- DOT #: 3369820
- State license #: 0190491
- DOD certified
Alternative Business Names
- Lovejoy's Family Moving
- Republic Relocation Services
Local Associations
We Like To Move It Moving
rating
4.76 / 5
DOT #: 2843171
Years in Business: 9
4901 Morena Blvd Ste 1102, San Diego, CA 92117 USMoving made nearly effortlessโWe Like To Move It Moving receives consistently impressive customer feedback. Out of 379 reviews analyzed, 94% describe positive experiences citing efficient service, attention to detail with belongings, and truly professional movers. Many customers mention a quick, organized moving process and commend the teamโs friendly, communicative attitude. Movers arrive promptly, handle items with care, and communicate clearly throughout, making stressful moves much easier. Transparent pricing and easy booking also earn high praise. While negative feedback is rare, some customers saw final costs higher than expected, and a few reported damage to belongings or delays. Compared to typical moving companies, We Like To Move It Moving reliably delivers fast, careful, and personable service. High satisfaction rates and strong recommendations set them apart as a leader in the San Diego area.
Review Profiles
Services Offered
Move Distances
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
Available services
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Hot Tubs
- Art
- Antiques
- Crating
- Storage
- Safes
Additional Information
- Pay by credit card
- DOT #: 2843171
- State license #: 0191446
Cube Moving and Storage Inc
rating
4.72 / 5
DOT #: 2764870
Years in Business: 14
8045 Raytheon Rd #500, San Diego, CA 92111 USMoving can be a hassle, but customers often say Cube Moving and Storage Inc helps take the stress out of the process. Of the 622 feedback entries analyzed, 89% were positive, highlighting their efficient service, careful handling of items, and professional, friendly crews. Many praised how quickly and safely belongings were moved, especially compared to other companies, and affordable rates were repeatedly cited as a strength. Negative input, making up 9%, focused mainly on higher-than-expected costs due to unexpected fees, as well as occasional unprofessional interactions or property damage. Complaints about undisclosed charges and perceived slow work were more common than actual mishandling of items. Only 2% of input was neutral, usually mentioning satisfactory but unremarkable experiences. Cubeโs strong track record for reliable, speedy service and their attention to detail set them apart from most moving providers, but clear and upfront communication around rates and policies is essential to avoid surprises for customers.
Review Profiles
Services Offered
Move Distances
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
Available services
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Crating
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
Additional Information
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
- DOT #: 2764870
- State license #: 0190874
Dominant Moving Company
rating
4.62 / 5
DOT #: 2718191
Years in Business: 11
7875 Convoy Ct #23, San Diego, CA 92111 USDominant Moving Company stands out in San Diego's moving industry for fast, careful, and professional crews. Of the 360 feedback entries reviewed, more than 82% came from highly satisfied customers praising efficient service, polite staff, and impressive price-to-quality value. Clients emphasize how movers protect belongings, communicate well, and finish jobs on schedule. Affordable rates and careful handling of items set Dominant apart from many competitors. Some negative input highlights recurring issues: damage to furniture or property, slow or late arrivals, and unsatisfactory responses to complaints. A few clients report unresolved claims for damage or difficulty contacting management after a problem. While delays and breakage occasionally impact experiences, most people say their moves were smooth and cost-effectiveโattributes that help Dominant edge out local rivals in reliability and value. The companyโs reputation is built on speed, care, and affordability, but future customers should clarify damage procedures and timing expectations before booking.
Review Profiles
Services Offered
Move Distances
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
Available services
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Hot Tubs
- Pool Tables
- Antiques
- Crating
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Fragile-only packing
- Safes
Additional Information
- Pay by money order
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
- DOT #: 2718191
- State license #: 191165
Alternative Business Names
- Velorom LLC
Factors influencing moving costs from San Diego to Durham
What to know before moving from San Diego to Durham
Moving from San Diego to Durham means adjusting to a different pace of life โ and a different price tag. On average, it costs significantly more to live in San Diego than in Durham, making the move an opportunity for many to enjoy a lower cost of living.
Check out how San Diego compares to Durham so you know what to expect before you relocate:
| San Diego | Durham | |
|---|---|---|
| Average rent cost | $2,881 | $1,699 |
| Average home value | $1,003,444 | $391,719 |
| Average income (per capita) | $72,963 | $396,291 |
| Cost of living (single person) | $3,346 | $2,803 |
| Cost of living (family of 4) | $7,719 | $5,945 |
| Unemployment rate | 6.6% | 4.1% |
| Sales tax | 7.75% | 7.5% |
| State income tax | 13.3% | 4.5% |
- Rent prices in Durham are 41% lower than in San Diego, which means youโll have more money in your pocket each month.
-
In terms of homeownership, youโll be able to get more for your money in Durham.
Home prices in Durham are 61.0% lower than in San Diego. - Income in Durham is 443.1% higher than in San Diego, so you could earn more for doing the same job. The top employers in Durham include Duke University & Duke Univ. Health System, IBM, and Durham Public Schools.
- The cost of living for a single person in Durham is 16.2% lower than in San Diego. This includes routine expenses like utilities, groceries, clothing, and transportation.
- The cost of living for a family in Durham is 23.0% lower than in San Diego.
- The unemployment rate in Durham is 37.88% lower than in San Diego.
- Youโll spend less on retail and restaurants in Durham, since the cityโs sales taxes in Durham are 3.23% lower than in San Diego.
- One perk of moving to Durham is paying less in state income taxes, which are 66.17% lower than in San Diego.
To put this in perspective, you would need around $2,513.15 in Durham to maintain the same standard of life that you can have with $3,000.00 in San Diego.
How life is different in San Diego vs. Durham
| Durham | San Diego | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 283,506 | 1,386,932 |
| AllTransit Transportation Performance 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 |
- Durham's population is about 80% less than San Diego.
- Durham's public transportation has a score of 4 out of 10 versus San Diego's higher score of 6.
- Durham is less walkable than San Diego with a score of 30 out of 100 vs San Diego's 53 out of 100.
- Durham has a bike-friendliness score 38 out of 100, which means it isn't as accessible to and safe for cyclists as San Diego, which has a score of 43 out of 100.
- Durham's crime rate is higher than San Diego with a score of 54.72 compared to San Diego's 39.83. This means that Durham neighborhoods are safer than 54.72% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and San Diego neighborhoods are safer than 39.83%.
- Durham is considered to be less safe than San Diego with a score of 45.28 vs San Diego's 60.17.
- Air quality in Durham is good, and in San Diego it's moderate.
Other things to consider for your San Diego vs. Durham move
- Weather: The climate in Durham is unlikely to affect your move. However, some days in the winter, the roads may become icy which causes traffic issues.
- 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 you'll want to check on how to reserve it for move 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: For-profit household goods carriers in the state fall under the jurisdiction of the North Carolina Utilities Commission, Transportation Division. All legitimate movers should have a โC Numberโ issued by the commission, signifying that theyโve met minimum insurance requirements and adhere to the provisions outlined in the stateโs Maximum Rate Tariff (MRT). Make sure the moving company you use has a license before hiring.
- State regulator: You can verify a North Carolina moving license and its status through the state's public utilities commission.
- Moving permits: North Carolina does not require any moving permits, but it is helpful to check local parking restrictions before moving into the state.
- Change of address: We recommend submitting your change of address form with USPS at least a week prior to your move. You can set an official move date on the form and this way all of your mail will get properly forwarded to Durham. Get started here.
- Moving company insurance: Every state requires moving companies to carry different levels of insurance.Choose Released Value Protection for no-cost, minimal coverage from movers, with responsibility limited to 60 cents per pound per article. For comprehensive coverage, explore alternatives with your chosen moving company or consider a third-party insurance provider.
- Moving checklist: Our moving checklist will help you have the peace of mind that you've got everything covered.
Where to live in Durham
Now that you've decided to make the move to "City of The Viper", these are the best neighborhoods to move to in Durham.
Best neighborhoods for singles
- Warehouse District
- City Center
- Research Triangle Park
- Central Park
- Chapel Hill
Best neighborhoods for families
- Treyburn
- American Village/Arrowhead
- Willowhaven
- Fieldstone by the Eno
- Hope Valley Farms
Things to do in Durham
Now that you've made the move to North Carolina, itโs the perfect time to explore Durham. From local hotspots to hidden gems, thereโs something to enjoy for every lifestyle:
- Arts and culture: Youโll find museums and cultural hubs throughout Durham, such as the Museum of Life + Science, Nasher Museum of Art at Duke University, Museum of Durham History, V & E Simonetti Historic Tuba Collection, and Golden Belt.
- Outdoor recreation: The cityโs West Point on the Eno, RollingView Falls Lake State Park, Durham Central Park, and Historic Durham Athletic Park โ along with other locations, ideal for trails, cycling, or enjoying the fresh air.
- Sports: Experience the energy of a live game and back the home team at an Duke University (ACC) and Durham Bulls (Triple-A East baseball) game.
FAQ
When is the best time to move from San Diego to Durham?
The best time to move from San Diego to Durham is during the spring or fall. These seasons offer milder weather and avoid higher moving costs during the peak moving season in San Diego.
When is the cheapest time to move from San Diego to Durham?
Because most people are moving from San Diego to Durham 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 San Diego to Durham take?
The 2,523-mile move from San Diego, CA, to Durham, NC, takes seven to 21 days. Some San Diego movers may offer expedited moving if you need it faster. If you need more time, ask your mover about storage options in Durham.
